The series of bipartisan healthcare bills are being considered expedited rules that require two-third votes for approval.
One bill H.R. 3635, amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to revise the process by which Medicare administrative contractors (MACs) issue and reconsider local coverage determinations (LCDs) that: (1) are new, (2) restrict or substantively revise existing LCDs, or (3) are otherwise specified in regulation. According to reports, it would provide transparency and consistency for providers by codifying requirements that Medicare administrative contractors must follow when making local coverage determinations.
A legislation H.R. 6662 was introduced to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to extend the special election period under part C of the Medicare program for certain deemed individuals enrolled in a reasonable cost reimbursement contract to certain nondeemed individuals enrolled in such contract. According to reports the bill will codify existing regulations that ensure certain Medicare beneficiaries have time to make decisions about their Medicare coverage.
The H.R. 6690 bill, requires the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to establish a pilot program that evaluates the feasibility of using smart card technology to address Medicare fraud. Under the program, smart card technology must be issued free-of-charge to selected Medicare beneficiaries, suppliers, and providers; such technology must support the secure, electronic authentication of beneficiary identity at points of service. In selecting program participants, the CMS must consider the risk of fraud, waste, or abuse among categories of suppliers and providers. It would create a three-year pilot program to test the use of smart card technology in Medicare.
According to news reports the three bills won approval last week in the House Ways and Means Committee.
