Greater Freedom for Medicare Patients to Choose Doctors and Contracts
This act aims to increase freedom of choice and contracting for individuals using the Medicare program. It allows patients and eligible professionals to freely contract for services, while still enabling patients to use their Medicare benefits. The goal is to provide greater flexibility in accessing healthcare.
Key points
Medicare beneficiaries can enter into written contracts with eligible professionals for services, even if the professional is not a participating Medicare provider, and still submit claims for Medicare reimbursement.
Contracts must clearly state costs and terms, and the beneficiary is responsible for submitting claims unless otherwise specified in the contract.
The act prohibits states from imposing limits on charges for services provided by eligible professionals, allowing for more pricing flexibility.
These new rules do not apply to individuals eligible for Medicaid or in emergency medical situations.
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