CMS


CMS Star Ratings: Keeping up with the 2026 Final Rule

By Marge Ciancetta – Among the most impactful changes released by CMS each year in the Medicare Advantage and Part D Final Rule are adjustments to the Star Ratings program. As a result of the most recently finalized changes, CMS projects a 0.69% decline in overall quality bonus payments for 2026.


CMS Vision for the Future of Digital Health

The CMS Making Health Tech Great Again initiative is announced. “Let’s stop waiting and let’s definitely stop faxing. Let’s start building. The right data at the right time can mean the difference between loss and hope. The time is now. Are you in?”




2023 Preview Period for Doctors and Clinicians Is Reopening

CMS is reopening the Preview Period because 17 additional QPP performance measures were recently identified to be included in the CY 2023 QPP public reporting information. CMS also made additional updates and display corrections to the CY 2023 QPP performance data available during the Preview Period that closed in June.


CMS 2026 Proposed Rule for OPPS and ASC

On July 15, 2025, CMS issued a proposed rule that proposes updates to Medicare payment policies and rates for hospital outpatient and Ambulatory Surgical Center services under the Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System and ASC Payment System Proposed Rule for calendar year 2026.


CMS Penalties for Directory Errors Loom for Payors

By David Van Houtte – With a recent increase in rules and regulations from CMS, health plans are feeling the pressure of more scrutiny, and the fear of penalties looms. For example, the No Surprises Act, passed in 2022, has already resulted in healthcare facilities, payors, and providers paying more than $11 million in penalties.