C-TAC regularly comments on proposed federal regulations on behalf of those living with serious illness and the people who care for them. Hundreds and even thousands of others comment as well, so it is unusual and encouraging when a comment is mentioned in a final rule. Recently, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) issued a proposed rule for…

In September 2023 and March 2024, CMS announced two new care models – the States Advancing All-Payer Health Equity Approaches and Development Model (AHEAD Model), and the ACO Primary Care Flex Model, respectively – that offer promising opportunities for better care delivery, outcomes, and health equity for people with serious illness. The goal of the AHEAD Model is to collaborate…

C-TAC regularly monitors and comments on federal regulations as part of our ongoing dialogue with the Biden Administration on behalf of those living with serious illness. This is a mechanism to help shape Medicare programs and measures on their behalf. Throughout the year, there are various comment opportunities including the ability to comment on proposed regulations, Requests for Information (RFIs),…

Nothing gets done in Washington, right? Well…in a year when Congress had the fewest bills passed, ever, and polarization seemed at its highest, it was a breakthrough year for C-TAC’s policy advocacy. The public policy wins in this recap of 2023 will have an immediate impact for patients, caregivers, and their care teams in 2024. We couldn’t have done it…

CMS announced a new model to test approaches for addressing the behavioral and physical health, as well as health-related social needs, of people with Medicaid and Medicare. The Innovation in Behavioral Health (IBH) Model’s goal is to improve the overall quality of care and outcomes for adults with mental health conditions and/or substance use disorder by connecting them with the…

The White House announced (fact sheet) the selection of sickle cell disease (SCD) as the initial focus of the Cell and Gene Therapy (CGT) Access Model, aimed at enhancing health outcomes, increasing access to therapies, and reducing healthcare costs for vulnerable populations. With over 100,000 Americans affected by SCD, the model, led by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services…