The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) finalized plans
today aimed at reducing ” unnecessary, obsolete, or burdensome
regulations”. Among the goals of the the new rules are modifications CMS
hopes to “let CAHs partner with other providers so they can be more
efficient and ensure the safe and timely delivery of care to their
patients.” Specifically, CAHs will now be allowed to use “contract
services” or those services provided by contracted health care providers
not directly employed by the CAH. This will allow CAH administrators
increased flexibility to meet the needs of their individual facilities.
NRHA submitted comments to CMS during the proposed comment period
advocating for these changes. The comment letter is available here. A copy of the CMS press announcement is available here.
NRHA applauds CMS for its efforts to reduce the regulatory and
administrative burdens placed on rural hospitals and for their
responsiveness to NRHA’s comments and concerns.