Medicare/Medicaid Equality Act: Addressing Health Disparities and Social Factors.
This law mandates that Medicare and Medicaid programs actively address health disparities and incorporate social factors (like living conditions) that influence beneficiaries' health. It requires the testing of new payment models specifically designed to improve access to care, particularly for rural populations, minorities, and pregnant women. This shift ensures the healthcare system focuses more intensely on the needs of the most vulnerable patients.
Key points
All new Medicare/Medicaid models must now explicitly aim to advance health equity and consider social determinants of health.
A mandatory "Social Determinants of Health Payment Model" must be tested, focusing on behavioral health and increasing capacity in underserved areas.
Increased focus on improving access to care for high-risk patients and providers operating in underserved areas.
Expired
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