Louisiana Commits More Than $17 Billion to Extend Medicaid Managed Care Contracts
Louisiana has approved more than $17 billion to extend most Medicaid managed care contracts through 2026, while planning a transition for UnitedHealthcare members.
Medicare
Study Links Health-Related Social Needs to Higher Emergency Department Use
A new study finds that unmet health-related social needs, including housing and transportation challenges, are strongly associated with higher emergency department use.
CMS Introduces LEAD Model to Broaden Accountable Care Participation and Strengthen Outcomes
CMS unveiled the LEAD ACO model to expand access to accountable care, support complex patients, and improve coordination across Medicare and Medicaid.
CMS Launches New Medicare Model ACCESS to Expand Technology-Supported Chronic Care
CMS plans to launch the ACCESS Model to expand technology-supported chronic care and test outcome-aligned payments for Medicare beneficiaries.
A Look Back at 2025: Insights on Value-Based Care, LTSS, and Dual-Eligibility
XtraGlobex reflects on a year of advocacy, analysis, and innovation across value-based payment, LTSS, and dual-eligible policy through The VBP Blog, DEHQ, and Paying for Outcomes.
From Innovation to Action: What CMMI’s VBP Models Can Teach Us About the Future of LTSS
The VBP Blog concludes its series on CMMI models with key takeaways for LTSS reform, spotlighting models that moved the needle on equity, integration, and accountability.
New Federal Law Caps Medicaid Payments, Threatens Rural Hospitals
New federal law caps state-directed Medicaid payments, a move critics warn could devastate rural hospitals already under financial strain.
Most Medicare Advantage Enrollees Face Limited Plan Choices in Concentrated Markets
A new KFF study shows most Medicare Advantage beneficiaries are in highly concentrated markets with limited insurer options, leaving little consumer choice.
CMS Proposes 6.4% Cut to Medicare Home Health Payments for 2026
CMS proposes a 6.4% reduction in Medicare payments to home health agencies for 2026, raising concerns about access to care and financial stability in the sector.
Unplanned Long-Term Care Costs Threaten U.S. Retirement Security
New analysis warns that long-term care expenses pose serious risks to retirement security, particularly for single women and Baby Boomers.