(Nov. 13, 2026) – MLN Connects Provider eNews from the Medicare Learning Network
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services issued the following updates in the MLN Connects Provider eNews:
CMS Releases Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program and Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit Program Final Rule
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services released a final rule establishing a permanent framework for negotiating prices for high-cost drugs. By Feb. 1, 2027, CMS will select up to 20 additional negotiation-eligible drugs covered under Part D and/or payable under Part B. The rule also implements the Temporary Floor for Small Biotech Drugs required by law, which prohibits CMS from offering or accepting a counteroffer for an MFP below a specified floorf
CMS Issues Cutting Administrative Requirements for Excellence in Patient Care Proposed Rule
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services issued the Cutting Administrative Requirements for Excellence in Patient Care proposed rule. The CARE proposed rule revises the Conditions of Participation, Conditions for Coverage and Requirements for Participation for Medicare and Medicaid participating providers and suppliers.
According to CMS, the rule will "reduce costs, increase transparency, enhance flexibility for providers to deliver innovative patient care and streamline regulations." The proposed rule would affect hospitals, Critical Access Hospitals, long-term care facilities, intermediate care facilities and rural emergency hospitals.
Within the rule, CMS is soliciting comments on minimizing the burden on hospitals and CAHs to comply with ongoing respiratory illness and public health emergency infectious illness data reporting requirements, expanding the scope of practice of physician assistants and nurse practitioners providing care in LTC facilities and allowing LTC facility residents to opt out of having a discharge notice sent to the state ombudsman office.