The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has released the Calendar Year 2027 Home Health Prospective Payment System (PPS) proposed rule, which includes payment updates, policies intended to expand access to home health services, and program integrity measures aimed at reducing fraud, waste, and abuse.

The proposed rule includes an estimated 2.4% increase in Medicare payments to home health agencies to support access to care.

Rising home health costs and provider availability are an ongoing concern for payers and health care consumers alike. CMS's proposal may help to protect access to these services amid environmental factors, including widely reported health care worker shortages.