The proposed rule also authorizes states to prohibit Medicaid payments for preventable HACs. Under the proposed rule, states must amend their Medicaid payment rules to ensure that payments related to preventable HACs are reduced, rather than increased as would be the case without an amendment. For example, an HAC could lead to a longer hospital stay, which under traditional payment structure would generate additional reimbursement for the hospital.
Comments on the rule are currently being accepted.
Read the AHA News Now report on Medicaid payments for healthcare-acquired conditions.
Read more coverage on healthcare-acquired conditions
