New Medicare rule would make home care more difficult, critics argue

At a time when Ohio and other states are attempting to make it easier for Medicaid enrollees to obtain home- and community-based care, a new Medicare rule may make it harder for some seniors to get home care services (Source: “Medicare Rule Sparks Concerns About Patients' Access To Home Health Care,” Kaiser Health News, March 24, 2011).

The rule, which takes effect April 1, requires Medicare beneficiaries to see a doctor 90 days before or 30 days after starting health health service.

The rule intends to curb unnecessary spending. However, in a letter to CMS, home health agencies, hospitals and consumer groups say the rule may be a burden for some home-bound seniors or those in rural areas who do not have easy access to care.