S. 1460: Preserving Patient Access to Accountable Care Act

This bill, titled the Preserving Patient Access to Accountable Care Act, aims to amend the Social Security Act by extending the incentive payments for healthcare providers who participate in certain alternative payment models under the Medicare program. It specifically modifies provisions concerning incentive payments for the years 2026 and 2027.

Key Provisions

• The bill changes the timeline for incentive payment adjustments, pushing the deadlines from 2026 to 2027 for several key provisions.
• For the year 2027, the incentive payment percentage is increased to 3.53 percent from the previous rate of 1.88 percent.
• Subsequent years' provisions are also amended to continue the incentives for healthcare providers who are part of eligible alternative payment models.

Details of the Amendments

The bill proposes the following specific amendments:

• Adjusting payment schedules from 2026 to 2027 across various sections of the Social Security Act, thereby allowing for continued incentives for providers through 2027.
• Inserting specific percentages for incentive payments for the year 2027, specifically highlighting the increased rate of 3.53 percent for that year.
• Ensuring that these changes align with other sections of the Social Security Act that deal with reimbursement rates and payment methodologies for Medicare providers.

Purpose

The primary purpose of the bill is to encourage healthcare providers to engage in alternative payment models, which are intended to improve care quality and reduce costs. By extending these incentives, the bill aims to maintain or possibly increase provider participation in such models, which can lead to better patient outcomes and cost management within the Medicare system.

Impact on Providers

Healthcare providers who participate in these alternative payment models may see a direct benefit from the extended incentives, which could influence their financial decisions regarding care delivery models and overall participation in the Medicare program.

Relevant Companies

• HCA Healthcare Inc. (HCA) - As a significant provider of healthcare services, HCA may be influenced by the changes in Medicare reimbursement related to alternative payment models.
• UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (UNH) - This company, being both an insurer and provider of healthcare services, may see impacts related to adjustments in Medicare payments and incentives for accountable care.
• Anthem, Inc. (ANTM) - As a major health insurance company, changes in Medicare payment structures could affect how Anthem manages its reimbursement processes with healthcare providers.