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Despite the initial reaction last Friday that Congress was “moving on” from health reform legislation, reports out this week indicate that the House could possibly rekindle negotiations and move forward with an ACA repeal and replace package in the coming weeks. Even with maneuvering in the House, any proposal similar to AHCA would face tough prospects in the Senate where a number of key Republican Senators have expressed concerns and opposition to the bill. The National Council is monitoring congressional action closely and will notify its members if any advocacy is needed.
REFORM THROUGH REGULATION
Even if President Trump is unable to usher repeal and replace through Congress, there are a number of potential reforms that can be made to health care and Medicaid through the regulatory and administrative processes at the Department of Health and Human Services.
Potential reforms to Medicaid via regulations or Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) state waivers include:
- Imposing work requirements for able-bodied adults;
- Implementing various cost-sharing measures like premium payments and emergency room copayments;
- Redefining the Essential Health Benefits, including mental health and substance use treatment; or
- Revising annual open enrollment period for insurance coverage.