Regulatory News

Staying current on state and federal infection-control requirements for home care clinicians

As we enter the 2025–2026 respiratory season, the Home Care Alliance of Massachusetts has reviewed the latest infection control guidance from both the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) and the CDC. While DPH’s September 2025 update focused on vaccine recommendations and guidance on exposure and/or infection of respiratory viruses, PPE protocols remain unchanged. The most current Massachusetts PPE guidance is still the May 5, 2023 update, and the CDC’s latest infection control guidance was issued in June 2

National Government Services in providing Alliance members a webinar on the latest Medicare updates and compliance strategies next month.

National Government Services in providing Alliance members a webinar on the latest Medicare updates and compliance strategies next month. This program will provide practical guidance on Face-to-Face documentation to support eligibility, responding effectively to ADRs, and managing Medical Review outcomes. Attendees will also gain insight into TPE expectations and learn how to access valuable CMS and NGS resources. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear directly from our Medicare Administrative Contractor and strengthen you

Key Updates and Insights from CMS's CY 2026 Home Health Proposed Rule

The CY 2026 HH PPS Proposed Rule introduces significant changes that will impact home health providers. From expanded face-to-face encounter rules to streamlined surveys and new regulatory measures, these updates could reshape operations, compliance, and quality strategies. Learn more about these proposed changes and how they could affect your agency.

Potential Federal Changes Could Result in Loss of Coverage for Hundreds of Thousands and $1 Billion in State Funding Cuts

Proposed Medicaid cuts could devastate Massachusetts, putting healthcare access at risk for hundreds of thousands and threatening $1 billion in federal funding annually.

Key Proposed Changes to Hospice Payment and Policies for FY 2026

CMS proposes key updates to hospice payment and policies for FY 2026, including a 2.4% payment increase and new quality data penalties. These changes, along with regulatory clarifications and updates to the Hospice Quality Reporting Program, could significantly impact hospice providers. Learn more about the proposed changes here.