As we move closer to the February 16 deadline, this is a reminder for HIPAA covered entities to confirm they are on track to update their Notice of Privacy Practices (“NPP”) to comply with the finalized federal requirements governing substance use disorder (“SUD”) records under 42 C.F.R. Part 2 (read the Fact Sheet here).
CMS Launches ASC Prior Authorization Demo for Certain “High-Risk” Procedures: What ASCs and Surgeons Need to Know
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has been using prior authorization for selected Hospital Outpatient Department (OPD) services for several years as part of its broader effort to curb improper payments and unnecessary utilization. In late 2025, CMS expanded that approach into the Ambulatory Surgical Center (ASC) setting through a new Prior Authorization
CMS Finalizes Rule Closing Medicaid Provider Tax Loophole
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has finalized a major Medicaid financing rule aimed at closing what the agency has described as a long-standing “healthcare-related tax loophole.” The rule, finalized on January 29, 2026, implements statutory changes enacted last summer and significantly restricts how states