Volume 26.04
On August 26, 2026, the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (“MedPAC”) released the analytic agenda for 2026-2027. The 2026-2027 cycle begins with the September public meeting. Among other things, the following are planned:
“The Commission will analyze recent trends in Part D spending, including the effects of the Part D benefit redesign that took effect in 2025. The redesign reduced cost sharing for beneficiaries and improved plan incentives to manage costs, but it has likely also contributed to increases in program spending. In 2027 and 2030, Medicare’s policies to slow the growth in beneficiary premiums will expire, making it increasingly important to address program costs to improve long-term sustainability for beneficiaries and taxpayers. The Commission will examine the implications of these trends for Medicare beneficiaries and the program and explore potential policy options to improve the program’s stability and affordability. The Commission will also assess recent trends in access to pharmacies and incorporate findings from focus groups with pharmacists.
The Commission also plans to assess whether Medicare’s quality measurement and value-based payment programs are improving quality and providing value for the Medicare program, with a particular focus on clinician quality measurement programs. We will also continue analyzing the accuracy of Medicare payments to skilled nursing facilities and home health agencies, trends in Part B drug utilization and spending, hospice use patterns and Medicare
The announcement is available here.
MedPAC
We encourage all healthcare providers to monitor the activities, reports, and recommendations of MedPAC.
The Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MedPAC) is an independent congressional agency established by the Balanced Budget Act of 1997 (P.L. 105-33) to advise the U.S. Congress on issues affecting the Medicare program. In addition to advising the Congress on payments to private health plans participating in Medicare and providers in Medicare’s traditional fee-for-service program, MedPAC provides information on access to care, quality of care, and other issues affecting Medicare.
MedPAC meets publicly to discuss policy issues and formulate its recommendations to Congress. During these meetings, Commissioners consider the results of staff research and comments from interested parties. Commission members and staff also seek input on Medicare issues through frequent meetings with individuals interested in the program, including staff from congressional committees and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), health care researchers, health care providers, and beneficiary advocates.
There are two reports issued in March and June each year that are the primary outlet for Commission recommendations. In addition to these reports and others on subjects requested by the Congress, MedPAC advises the Congress through other avenues, including comments on reports and proposed regulations issued by the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, testimony, and briefings for congressional staff.
2026 HOSPICE FINANCIAL AND COMPLIANCE MANAGEMENT CONFERENCE
The 2026 “Hospice Financial & Compliance Management Conference” is close to selling out. Registration has been overwhelming, and only a couple of spots remain as program space is limited to enhance the quality and networking opportunities for the attendees. The two-day program is being held at the Paris Las Vegas on October 1-2, 2026.
As always, this annual program offers the most extensive hospice financial coverage available. The integration of finance and compliance is critical for the survival and success of any hospice. This year, compliance and the associated financial risks are critical. The conference program, including registration information, is available here. Discounted room rates are available here or by calling (877) 603-4389. Make certain to inform Paris Las Vegas that you are attending The Health Group program. If you are registered but have not secured your room, you are encouraged to do so at your earliest opportunity. There are many special events occurring in Las Vegas at the same time as our program. See you in Las Vegas.