Staff Contact: Andrew Wheeler
CMS released a proposed rule that updates Medicare enrollment and eligibility rules to reduce barriers to coverage, simplify Medicare enrollment and expand access through Medicare special enrollment periods. The rule would extend SEPs for individuals affected by an emergency or disaster, for those affected by health plan or employer error, to formerly incarcerated individuals, to coordinate with termination of Medicaid coverage, and for other exceptions based on a case-by-case basis. The rule also gives additional flexibilities to those who may qualify for Medicare due to an end-stage renal disease diagnosis. Comments are due 60 days after the Federal Register publication date.