CMS proposes stronger Medicare integrity measures in home health rule

CMS detailed proposed safeguards to combat Medicare fraud in its 2027 home health payment rule. The agency is seeking expanded authority to investigate and revoke Medicare enrollment for providers deemed problematic. This follows recent proposed rules for hospital outpatient and home health settings that include similar integrity provisions. While primarily aimed at program-wide abuse, the focus signals CMS's continued shift toward stricter enrollment oversight for all provider types. Practices should ensure their Medicare enrollment records are current and compliance programs are active to avoid scrutiny under these broader enforcement powers.