Shutdown
Generally, there was no progress on re-opening the government this week. While there has been some discussion around a compromise on enhanced premium tax credit subsidies (e.g., an income cap on eligibility), the discussions are still preliminary. The next major date that could force a change in the status quo is next week (October 15th), when without a deal, military personnel would miss their first paycheck.
Regulation Agenda Released
OMB published their unified fall regulatory agenda. This is often seen as attractions coming from a regulatory standpoint. The Unified Agenda included goals of releasing at least the following regulation this fall:
Medicare
- Medicare Advantage 2027 rules
- new CMMI demonstrations (two separate rules/demos)
- Final Medicare Payment Rules
ACA
- ACA Payment Rule
Medicaid
- State-Directed Payment Rule
- Medicaid Provider Taxes Rule
Other
- Electronic transactions/prior authorization
KFF Research
KFF released an updated analysis on premium increases in the ACA. Based on final rates and final federal poverty guidelines, KFF found that average out of pocket premiums are expected to increase 114%.
