The Impact of Federal Budget Deal on Physician Practices
Last week, Congress passed a large budget package that was signed by the President. The AMA has provided an update on the eight major provisions impacting physicians from telehealth to burnout and prescription-drug pricing. Specifically, the budget deal—which helped to avoid a protracted federal government shutdown as seen in the fall—includes these big wins for patients and physicians:
Medicare telehealth coverage renewed for two years.
1% bonus restored for physicians participating in Medicare alternative payment models (APMs).
Access to the Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program expanded.
Medicare Advantage plans required to maintain accurate, regularly updated provider directories and publicly report directory accuracy.
Acute Hospital Care at Home waiver extended for five years.
The Dr. Lorna Breen Health Care Provider Protection Act extended for five years.
Targeted pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) reformsintroduced to enhance transparency, curb abusive Medicare drug rebate practices, and strengthen enforcement against anticompetitive behavior.
More funding to address preterm births and maternal health.
