After years of relentless payment reductions and increasing scrutiny from the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MedPAC), a member of Congress is stepping up to defend the home health care industry. On February 12, U.S. Representative Andrew Clyde (R-GA) introduced a Congressional Review Act (CRA) joint resolution of disapproval aimed at invalidating the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ (CMS) 2025 home health final payment rule. The rule, which is eligible for review under the CRA’s lookback period, allows Congress to disapprove regulations issued within the final months of a President’s term.

The 2025 home health payment rule included a net 2.7% increase, reflecting a 3.2% market basket inflation update offset by a 0.5% productivity adjustment. However, this modest increase is overshadowed by a permanent -1.975% behavioral adjustment reduction. Since 2020, cumulative rate reductions have placed mounting financial strain on home health providers, with a 4.36% reduction in 2020, a 3.925% reduction in 2023, and a 2.89% reduction in 2024. These ongoing cuts continue to challenge the financial stability of home health agencies and their ability to serve patients effectively.

If enacted, this resolution would signal congressional intent to hold CMS accountable in future rulemaking.

A Turning Point for Home Health

HCAF applauds this long-overdue effort to challenge CMS’s financial and regulatory squeeze on Medicare home health providers. For years, HCAF has worked alongside national and state industry associations to advocate for payment policies that reflect the true cost of delivering care. This resolution represents a pivotal stand in defense of home health agencies and the patients who rely on their services.

What’s Next?

For the resolution to take effect, it must pass both the House and Senate and receive the President’s signature. If enacted, it would nullify the 2025 home health payment rule, requiring CMS to revisit its approach. While the resolution’s path forward may be challenging, it underscores growing congressional recognition of the critical role home health care plays in the broader health system.

HCAF will continue to monitor this resolution’s progress and advocate for policies that strengthen Florida’s home health community. Please stay tuned for the opportunity to contact your federal elected officials and voicing support for this resolution.