With a brand-new year comes a fresh opportunity to plan and achieve your content marketing goals. Our comprehensive CMS calendar 2024-2025 serves as your ultimate guide to staying on track with key dates, holidays, and industry trends. Whether you’re a seasoned marketer or just starting out, this calendar will empower you to create a cohesive and impactful content strategy that resonates with your audience.
This calendar not only provides a comprehensive overview of key dates but also offers expert insights and actionable tips on how to leverage specific occasions for your content marketing campaigns. From major holidays like Christmas and Thanksgiving to industry-specific events like CES and SXSW, we’ve got you covered. By aligning your content with relevant themes and events, you can effectively engage your audience, drive traffic to your website, and build stronger connections with potential customers.
Moreover, our CMS calendar empowers you to plan ahead and create a consistent content pipeline. By leveraging the power of a structured calendar, you can avoid last-minute scrambling and ensure that your content is timely, relevant, and of the highest quality. Additionally, the calendar serves as a collaborative tool for your team, enabling smooth coordination and efficient execution of your content marketing efforts. Embrace the power of our CMS calendar 2024-2025 and unlock the potential for a successful and impactful content marketing strategy.
Key Updates and Changes for 2024-2025
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has announced several key updates and changes to its calendar for 2024-2025. These changes are designed to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the Medicare and Medicaid programs, and to ensure that beneficiaries have access to high-quality care.
One of the most significant changes for 2024-2025 is the introduction of a new quality measure reporting system. This system will replace the current system, which has been in place since 2011. The new system will be more streamlined and efficient, and it will allow CMS to better track the quality of care provided by Medicare and Medicaid providers.
CMS is also making changes to its payment policies for 2024-2025. These changes are designed to promote value-based care and to reduce costs. For example, CMS is increasing payments for primary care services and for services that are provided in a coordinated manner. CMS is also reducing payments for services that are not considered to be high-value.
In addition to these major changes, CMS is also making a number of smaller changes to its calendar for 2024-2025. These changes are designed to improve the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the Medicare and Medicaid programs.
Quality Measure Reporting
The following table summarizes the key changes to the quality measure reporting system for 2024-2025:
| Change | Description |
|---|---|
| Streamlined reporting system | The new reporting system will be more streamlined and efficient, and it will allow CMS to better track the quality of care provided by Medicare and Medicaid providers. |
| New quality measures | CMS is adding several new quality measures to the reporting system. These measures are designed to assess the quality of care provided in a variety of settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and physician offices. |
| Revised reporting requirements | CMS is revising the reporting requirements for some quality measures. These changes are designed to make the reporting process more accurate and reliable. |
Understanding the CMS Calendar Timeline
2. CMS Calendar Timeline Schedule
The CMS calendar follows a specific timeline that governs the release of data and updates. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the key dates and events in the 2024-2025 CMS calendar:
Fall 2023
| Event | Dates |
|---|---|
| Medicare Advantage and Part D Advance Rate Notice | Mid-November |
| Medicare Fee-for-Service Proposed Rule | Early December |
Spring 2024
| Event | Dates |
|---|---|
| Medicare Advantage and Part D Final Rule | April |
| Medicare Fee-for-Service Final Rule | May |
| Quality Payment Program Proposed Rule | June |
Summer 2024
| Event | Dates |
|---|---|
| Quality Payment Program Final Rule | July |
| Medicare Advantage Enrollment Period | October 15th – December 7th |
Fall 2024
| Event | Dates |
|---|---|
| Medicare Part D Enrollment Period | November 1st – December 7th |
Spring 2025
| Event | Dates |
|---|---|
| Medicare Fee-for-Service Proposed Rule | Early December |
Navigating the Medicare Advantage Landscape
Medicare Advantage (MA) plans are becoming increasingly popular among Medicare beneficiaries, and it’s no wonder why. MA plans offer a variety of benefits that traditional Medicare does not, including:
- Lower out-of-pocket costs
- More comprehensive coverage
- Convenience and flexibility
Choosing the Right MA Plan
With so many MA plans to choose from, it’s important to do your research and compare plans before making a decision. Consider your health needs, budget, and lifestyle when choosing a plan. You can also get help from a licensed insurance agent or broker.
The following table provides a summary of some of the key features of MA plans:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Type of coverage | MA plans offer a variety of coverage options, including health maintenance organizations (HMOs), preferred provider organizations (PPOs), and private fee-for-service (PFFS) plans. |
| Out-of-pocket costs | MA plans have lower out-of-pocket costs than traditional Medicare. The average monthly premium for an MA plan is $21, while the average monthly premium for traditional Medicare is $170. |
| Coverage | MA plans offer more comprehensive coverage than traditional Medicare. MA plans cover a wider range of services, including vision, dental, and hearing care. |
| Convenience and flexibility | MA plans offer a number of convenience and flexibility features, such as online access to your plan information, 24/7 customer service, and the ability to see any doctor or specialist within your plan’s network. |
Enrolling in an MA Plan
To enroll in an MA plan, you must be eligible for Medicare Part A and Part B. You can enroll in an MA plan during the annual open enrollment period, which runs from October 15 to December 7. You can also enroll in an MA plan during a special enrollment period if you have a qualifying life event, such as losing your employer-sponsored health insurance or moving to a new area.
Updates to the Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Program
Lowering Out-of-Pocket Costs
- The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 caps out-of-pocket drug costs for Medicare Part D beneficiaries at $2,000 per year beginning in 2025.
- Beneficiaries will no longer face coverage gaps (donut holes) in their Part D plans after reaching the deductible.
Expanded Drug Coverage
- The Medicare Part D Senior Savings Model will expand access to lower-cost generic drugs and biosimilars for beneficiaries in Medicare Advantage plans.
- The Donut Hole Reduction Plan will increase the coverage of brand-name drugs in the coverage gap, reducing the percentage of costs beneficiaries pay.
Enhanced Protections for Beneficiaries
- The Part D Coverage Determination and Appeals Process will be streamlined to ensure timely and accurate decisions on drug coverage requests.
- Beneficiaries will have access to real-time drug pricing information through an online tool to help them compare costs and make informed decisions.
- Penalties for pharmacies that engage in fraudulent or abusive practices will be increased to protect beneficiaries and taxpayers.
New Initiatives
- The Comprehensive Primary Care Program will integrate primary care and prescription drug coverage for low-income Medicare beneficiaries.
- The Medicare Advantage Value-Based Insurance Design Model will encourage plans to improve care coordination and reduce medication-related health risks.
| Initiative | Impact |
|---|---|
| Out-of-Pocket Cost Cap | Caps out-of-pocket costs at $2,000 per year |
| Donut Hole Elimination | Eliminates coverage gaps after reaching the deductible |
| Senior Savings Model | Expands access to lower-cost drugs in Medicare Advantage |
| Coverage Determination Streamlining | Ensures timely and accurate coverage decisions |
| Real-Time Pricing Tool | Provides beneficiaries with access to drug pricing information |
| Primary Care Integration | Enhances care coordination and reduces medication risks |
Changes in Medicare Supplement Insurance Coverage
Medicare Supplement insurance, also known as Medigap, helps cover the out-of-pocket costs associated with Original Medicare, including deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. **For 2024 and 2025, there are several important changes to Medigap coverage.**
New Coverage Option for Preventive Services
Plan G and N will now cover preventive services, such as routine doctor visits, screenings, and vaccinations, at 100%. This change will help beneficiaries save money on these important health-related expenses.
Increased Out-of-Pocket Maximums
The out-of-pocket maximums for Medigap plans will increase from $7,550 in 2023 to $8,300 in 2024 and $8,700 in 2025. This means that beneficiaries will be responsible for paying more out-of-pocket costs before their Medigap coverage kicks in.
Elimination of Plan F for New Beneficiaries
Starting in 2024, Plan F will no longer be available to new beneficiaries. Plan F is one of the most comprehensive Medigap plans, and its elimination could leave some beneficiaries with higher out-of-pocket costs.
New Coverage for Extended Care Services
All Medigap plans will now cover extended care services, such as nursing home care and hospice care, up to a lifetime limit of one year per benefit period. This change will help beneficiaries afford these expensive long-term care costs.
Changes to Cost-Sharing for Part B Deductible
Medigap plans that cover the Part B deductible (Plans C, F, and G) will now have a two-tiered cost-sharing structure. Beneficiaries will pay a higher cost-sharing percentage for the first half of the deductible and a lower percentage for the second half. This change is designed to encourage beneficiaries to use their Medicare benefits more efficiently.
| Plan | Cost-Sharing Percentage | First Half of Deductible | Second Half of Deductible |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plan C | 50% | 25% | 25% |
| Plan F | 100% | 50% | 50% |
| Plan G | 50% | 25% | 25% |
Implications for Healthcare Providers
The release of the CMS calendar for 2024-2025 will have significant implications for healthcare providers. They will need to be aware of the changes and prepare their operations to comply with the new requirements. The CMS calendar provides guidance for healthcare providers on a wide range of topics, including reimbursement rates, quality measures, and regulations. Providers who fail to comply with the CMS calendar may face penalties or other sanctions.
Implications for Beneficiaries
The CMS calendar also has important implications for beneficiaries. Beneficiaries are individuals who receive health insurance through Medicare or Medicaid. The CMS calendar provides information on changes to the Medicare and Medicaid programs, such as changes to coverage and benefits. Beneficiaries should review the CMS calendar carefully to understand how the changes will affect them. They may need to make changes to their healthcare plans or coverage to ensure that they continue to receive the care they need.
Impact on Access to Care
The changes in the CMS calendar could have a significant impact on access to care for both providers and beneficiaries. For example, if reimbursement rates are reduced, providers may be less likely to accept new patients or provide certain services. This could make it more difficult for beneficiaries to find the care they need. Additionally, if coverage for certain benefits is reduced or eliminated, beneficiaries may have to pay more for their healthcare. This could make it more difficult for beneficiaries to afford the care they need.
Importance of Communication
It is important for both providers and beneficiaries to communicate with each other about the changes in the CMS calendar. Providers should notify beneficiaries of any changes that could affect their care. Beneficiaries should contact their providers if they have any questions or concerns about the changes. Open communication will help to ensure that both providers and beneficiaries are prepared for the upcoming changes.
Preparing for the Changes
Providers and beneficiaries can take steps to prepare for the changes in the CMS calendar. Providers should review the CMS calendar carefully and make any necessary changes to their operations. Beneficiaries should review the CMS calendar and contact their providers if they have any questions or concerns. Both providers and beneficiaries should be aware of the changes and take steps to prepare for them.
Resources for Providers and Beneficiaries
There are a number of resources available to help providers and beneficiaries prepare for the changes in the CMS calendar. The CMS website has a wealth of information on the calendar, including a searchable database of changes. The website also has a toll-free number that beneficiaries can call to ask questions about the CMS calendar. Additionally, there are a number of organizations that provide assistance to providers and beneficiaries with preparing for the upcoming changes.
| Organization | Website |
|---|---|
| CMS | www.cms.gov |
| National Association of Health Underwriters | www.nahu.org |
| American Medical Association | www.ama-assn.org |
| American Health Information Management Association | www.ahima.org |
Best Practices for Preparing for CMS Calendar Changes
Review the Proposed Calendar
Familiarize yourself with the proposed changes and their potential impact on your organization’s operations and billing processes.
Analyze and Understand Timing
Determine the effective dates of the changes and plan accordingly, ensuring timely implementation and compliance.
Assess Impact on Existing Systems
Evaluate whether your current systems and processes will accommodate the calendar changes. Consider necessary modifications or upgrades to ensure seamless transition.
Develop Implementation Plan
Establish a detailed plan that outlines the steps involved in implementing the changes. This includes timelines, responsibilities, and communication strategies.
Communicate with Stakeholders
Keep all relevant stakeholders, including providers, staff, and billing professionals, informed about the upcoming changes and their implications.
Test and Validate Systems
Thoroughly test and validate any modifications made to systems to ensure they are functioning correctly before the effective date.
Monitor and Review
Monitor the implementation process and review its impact on operations and billing accuracy. Make necessary adjustments as needed.
Leveraging Technology for Streamline CMS Compliance
8. Utilizing AI and Automation for Enhanced Compliance
8. Utilizing AI and Automation for Enhanced Compliance
Artificial intelligence (AI) and automation tools offer a transformative solution for streamlining CMS compliance. By leveraging these technologies, healthcare organizations can:
a. Automated Data Analysis and Reporting
AI-driven tools can analyze vast amounts of data in real-time, identifying patterns and potential compliance risks. This automation streamlines data analysis and reporting, ensuring accuracy and reducing the risk of errors.
b. Predictive Modeling and Early Detection
AI algorithms can predict compliance issues based on historical data and current trends. This predictive modeling allows healthcare organizations to proactively address potential risks, preventing penalties and ensuring ongoing compliance.
c. Automated Compliance Checks
Automation tools can perform regular compliance checks against regulatory guidelines and internal policies. This ensures continuous monitoring, reducing the burden on compliance teams and improving overall compliance posture.
d. Enhanced Decision-Making
AI-driven insights and predictive analytics provide healthcare leaders with valuable decision-making support. This data-driven approach empowers compliance teams to make informed decisions, prioritize compliance initiatives, and allocate resources effectively.
e. Improved Efficiency and Cost Savings
Automation and AI technologies streamline compliance processes, reducing manual effort and saving costs. This enhanced efficiency frees up compliance teams to focus on strategic initiatives and improve the overall efficiency of the healthcare organization.
Addressing Patient Care Coordination with CMS Updates
Missed Visit Codes
CMS is introducing new missed visit codes to capture instances where patients fail to attend scheduled appointments. These codes will help providers identify patients who may require additional support or case management to improve adherence to care plans.
New Measure to Assess Care Plan Adherence
CMS is developing a new measure to assess how well providers implement and monitor patient care plans. This measure will help identify areas where providers can improve their care coordination efforts and enhance patient outcomes.
Telehealth Visit Flexibilities
CMS is extending telehealth visit flexibilities, allowing providers to offer virtual visits for a wider range of services. This change aims to improve access to care for patients who may face barriers to in-person visits.
Updates to Evaluation and Management (E/M) Coding
CMS is updating E/M coding guidelines to streamline documentation requirements and reduce administrative burden. These changes will allow providers to focus more on patient care and less on documentation.
Behavioral Health Integration
CMS is encouraging the integration of behavioral health services into primary care settings. This initiative aims to improve access to mental health and substance use disorder treatment, which can significantly impact overall health outcomes.
Quality Payment Program (QPP) Changes
CMS is making changes to the QPP to incentivize providers for improving patient care coordination. These changes include new measures and weighting adjustments.
Home Health Assessment Updates
CMS is updating the home health assessment process to ensure that patients receive the appropriate level of care. These changes will include revisions to the assessment criteria and documentation requirements.
Hospice Care Payment Model
CMS is implementing a new hospice care payment model that will provide a more equitable payment structure for providers. This model aims to ensure that patients receive quality end-of-life care regardless of their location or socioeconomic status.
Advance Care Planning
CMS is promoting advance care planning to encourage patients to make informed decisions about their future care. These efforts include providing resources and education to both patients and healthcare professionals.
Improving Data Interoperability
CMS is working to improve data interoperability to facilitate the seamless sharing of patient information across healthcare settings. This initiative will help providers make informed decisions and improve care coordination.
New Codes for Remote Patient Monitoring
CMS is introducing new codes for remote patient monitoring (RPM) services. These codes will allow providers to bill for RPM services that help patients manage their conditions remotely.
Expanded Access to Chronic Care Management Services
CMS is expanding access to chronic care management (CCM) services to include patients with behavioral health conditions. This change will allow more patients to receive comprehensive care management for their complex health needs.
Coverage for Nutrition Counseling
CMS is providing coverage for nutrition counseling for patients with diabetes or prediabetes. This coverage will help patients improve their dietary habits and manage their blood sugar levels.
New Measure for Medication Adherence
CMS is developing a new measure to assess medication adherence. This measure will help providers identify patients who are not taking their medications as prescribed and develop strategies to improve adherence.
Updates to the End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) Prospective Payment System
CMS is making updates to the ESRD Prospective Payment System to improve the quality of care for ESRD patients. These updates include changes to payment rates and quality measures.
Updates to the Organ Acquisition and Transplantation Network
CMS is updating the Organ Acquisition and Transplantation Network (OPTN) policies to improve organ allocation and increase access to transplantation for patients in need.
New Payment Model for Rural Health Clinics
CMS is implementing a new payment model for rural health clinics (RHCs) to increase access to care in rural areas. This model will provide RHCs with more flexibility and support.
Updates to the Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Payment System
CMS is making updates to the SNF payment system to improve the quality of care for SNF residents. These updates include changes to payment rates and quality measures.
New Measure for Hospital Readmissions
CMS is developing a new measure to assess hospital readmissions. This measure will help providers identify patients at risk for readmission and develop strategies to reduce readmission rates.
Updates to the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule
CMS is making updates to the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule to reflect the latest evidence-based practices and changes in healthcare technology. These updates will ensure that physicians are fairly compensated for their services.
New Codes for Telehealth Services
CMS is introducing new codes for telehealth services to expand access to care for patients in rural and underserved areas. These codes will allow providers to bill for a wider range of telehealth services.
New Measure for Patient Experience
CMS is developing a new measure to assess patient experience with healthcare providers. This measure will help providers identify areas where they can improve the patient experience.
Updates to the Provider Enrollment Process
CMS is updating the provider enrollment process to make it easier for providers to enroll in Medicare and Medicaid programs. These updates will reduce administrative burden and improve access to care for patients.
New Measure for Social Determinants of Health
CMS is developing a new measure to assess how well providers address the social determinants of health. This measure will help providers identify patients who are at risk for poor health outcomes due to factors such as poverty, housing instability, and lack of access to education.
Updates to the Medicare Appeals Process
CMS is making updates to the Medicare appeals process to make it more efficient and fair. These updates will reduce the time it takes to resolve appeals and improve access to justice for patients.
| CMS Update | Impact |
|---|---|
| New missed visit codes | Improved identification of patients who need additional support |
| New measure to assess care plan adherence | Enhanced focus on implementing and monitoring patient care plans |
| Telehealth visit flexibilities | Increased access to care for patients facing barriers to in-person visits |
| Updates to E/M coding guidelines | Streamlined documentation requirements and reduced administrative burden |
| Behavioral health integration | Improved access to mental health and substance use disorder treatment |
| QPP changes | Incent
Future Outlook and Expected CMS Calendar Developments1. Enhanced User Interface and ErgonomicsCMS calendars are expected to incorporate user-friendly interfaces and improved ergonomics, making them easier to navigate and use for healthcare professionals. 2. Integration with Electronic Health Records (EHRs)Seamless integration with EHR systems will allow for automated syncing and data exchange, reducing the risk of errors and improving workflow efficiency. 3. Artificial Intelligence (AI)-Powered FunctionalityAI and machine learning algorithms will enhance CMS calendars by providing personalized recommendations, predicting patient needs, and optimizing scheduling. 4. Telehealth and Virtual Care SupportCMS calendars will integrate with telehealth platforms, enabling providers to schedule and manage virtual appointments directly from the calendar. 5. Data Analytics and ReportingRobust reporting capabilities will allow healthcare organizations to analyze utilization patterns, identify trends, and make informed scheduling decisions. 6. Cloud-Based AccessibilityCMS calendars will be accessible from any device with an internet connection, providing remote access and real-time updates for clinicians. 7. Customization and PersonalizationProviders will be able to customize their calendars to specific workflow needs, including setting availability, creating recurring events, and managing patient follow-ups. 8. Collaboration and Team SchedulingCollaboration features will enable multiple providers to share calendars, schedule appointments jointly, and track patient progress. 9. Compliance and Regulation SupportCMS calendars will provide tools to help healthcare organizations meet HIPAA and other regulatory requirements related to patient scheduling and appointment management. 10. Advanced Features: Decision Support, Predictive Analytics, and Workflow AutomationAdvanced CMS calendars will incorporate decision support systems, predictive analytics, and workflow automation to enhance scheduling accuracy, reduce errors, and streamline the entire scheduling process. CMS Calendar 2024-2025The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has released the 2024-2025 calendar for submissions and deadlines for various programs and initiatives. This calendar provides important information for healthcare providers, insurers, and beneficiaries regarding key dates for submitting applications, reporting data, and meeting regulatory requirements. The calendar helps ensure the timely processing of submissions and facilitates the efficient administration of Medicare and Medicaid programs. The calendar outlines specific deadlines for submitting applications for enrollment in Medicare and Medicaid programs, reporting quality and performance data, and requesting changes to provider enrollment information. It also includes important dates for submitting claims, conducting audits, and responding to requests for information from CMS. People Also Ask About CMS Calendar 2024-2025When is the deadline to submit an application for Medicare enrollment?The deadline to submit an application for Medicare enrollment for the 2024-2025 year is March 31, 2024. When is the deadline to report quality and performance data for the 2024-2025 year?The deadline to report quality and performance data for the 2024-2025 year is February 28, 2025. When is the deadline to request a change to provider enrollment information?The deadline to request a change to provider enrollment information for the 2024-2025 year is June 30, 2024. Where can I find the complete CMS calendar for 2024-2025?The complete CMS calendar for 2024-2025 can be found on the CMS website: https://www.cms.gov/Regulations-and-Guidance/Calendar-of-Events |
