S.1460 - Preserving Patient Access to Accountable Care Act (119th Congress)
Summary
S.1460, the Preserving Patient Access to Accountable Care Act, proposes amendments to Title XVIII of the Social Security Act. The bill aims to extend incentive payments for healthcare providers participating in eligible alternative payment models (APMs) under the Medicare program. Specifically, it modifies the timeline and percentages related to these incentive payments, pushing the dates forward by one year.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill would be to continue financial incentives for healthcare providers who are using alternative payment models. This extension aims to encourage the adoption of care models that focus on value and quality over volume. Ultimately, the bill seeks to improve patient outcomes and manage healthcare costs more effectively.
Potential Benefits
- Continued incentives for healthcare providers to participate in APMs.
- Potential for improved quality of care and patient outcomes through APMs.
- Better management of healthcare costs by promoting value-based care.
- Stability for healthcare organizations already participating in APMs.
- Encourages innovation in healthcare delivery models.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased government spending due to extended incentive payments.
- Risk that APMs may not always lead to cost savings or improved outcomes.
- Complexity in administering and monitoring APMs.
- Possible inequities if some providers are better positioned to participate in APMs than others.
- The bill focuses narrowly on payment models and may not address other systemic issues in healthcare.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it aims to improve healthcare access and quality for Medicare beneficiaries. Congress has the power to legislate on matters related to healthcare under the Necessary and Proper Clause, as it is instrumental in executing its enumerated powers, such as providing for the general welfare. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).