Association Responds to OPPS Final Rule from CMS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON - America's Essential Hospitals released the following statement in response to CMS' Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System final rule.

"The 340B cuts contained in CMS' Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS) rule are an existential threat to essential hospitals and the patients they serve. Rather than strengthening and preserving safety net funding, CMS is instead prioritizing hospitals that do not serve the safety net and nodding to the pharmaceutical industry's interests," said Beth Feldpush, DrPH, senior vice president of policy and advocacy at America's Essential Hospitals.

"These cuts are landing at a time when essential hospitals and their mission are more important than ever, as millions of people risk losing their Medicaid coverage in the coming months. Congress should ensure that CMS follows the law and preserves the 340B program, which is working as intended."

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About America's Essential Hospitals
America's Essential Hospitals is the leading association and champion for hospitals dedicated to high-quality care for all, including those who face social and financial barriers to care. Since 1981, America's Essential Hospitals has advanced policies and programs that promote health and access to health care. We support our more than 400 members with advocacy, policy development, research, education, and leadership development. Communities depend on essential hospitals for care across the continuum, health care workforce training, research, public health, and other services. Supported by Essential Hospitals Institute, the association's research and education arm, essential hospitals innovate and adapt to lead all of health care toward better outcomes and value. 

Contact:
James Swann
Director of Communications
[email protected]
202.585.0102