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COPD Foundation criticizes CMS proposed rule on pulmonary rehabilitation for Medicare patients
WASHINGTON—The COPD Foundation Monday criticized the proposed rule changes in Medicare policies for pulmonary rehabilitation.
The Foundation was commenting on the proposed rule published July 20 in the Federal Register by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).
According to the Foundation, the proposed rule is inadequate and would encourage the closing of many pulmonary rehabilitation centers.
The Foundation said the proposed rule:
- ignores pulmonary rehabilitation coverage for many conditions, including Alpha-1 Antititrypsin Deficiency, asthma and others;
- would establish inadequate reimbursement rates;
- limits coverage to one-hour sessions
- and fails to meet the intent of Congress to ensure access to pulmonary rehabilitation for those on Medicare with lung diseases.
The Foundation said it agrees with previous comments on the rule by the American Thoracic Society, the American Association for Respiratory Care, and other patient and professional groups.
