Proposed Medicare Cuts to Home Health Threaten Access to Care

Last month, CMS proposed to cut rates for Medicare home health services in 2023 by an unprecedented and permanent -7.69%, equaling $1.33 billion in 2023 alone. If implemented, payment cuts included in the CY 2023 Home Health Prospective Payment System (HHPPS) Proposed Rule will threaten patients’ access to care as America’s home health agencies could face serious financial hardship.

These cuts are dangerous as they will significantly limit access to home health, which, according to research, is overwhelmingly preferred by seniors, people with disabilities, and their families. Home health is a vital care option, especially among America’s rural and medically underserved senior populations who may already face limited access to other care options. Home health is not only popular but it’s also proven to be safe and incredibly cost-effective.

At a time when demand for home health, the cost of delivering care in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the size of America’s aging population are all significantly rising, CMS’s proposal to cut billions of dollars from the Medicare home health program just doesn’t make sense. Additional cuts will only exacerbate the current workforce and inflation crises.

The Partnership will actively be working with Congress to take action and help prevent these harmful cuts. Doing so would ensure stability for patients, caregivers, and the entire home healthcare infrastructure.

Click here to learn more about Medicare’s proposed cuts to home health.