Senate Committee issues ultimatum on provider non-discrimination

Earlier today, the Senate Appropriations Committee filed a report to accompany the Fiscal Year 2015 funding bill for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), which also includes the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Included in the report was American Chiropractic Association-supported language directing the agencies to address flawed guidance issued in 2013 on implementation of Section 2706, the vital provider non-discrimination provision, of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA or ACA).

The Senate Appropriations Committee edict states: “The fiscal year 2014 omnibus directed HHS to correct the 2013 FAQ on Section 2706 of the ACA to reflect the law and congressional intent. The Committee notes that CMS has not complied with this directive. The Committee expects the corrected FAQ by November 3, 2014, or an explanation for ignoring congressional intent.”

Source: American Chiropractic Association