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CMS MLN Connects Weekly Newsletter · April 8, 2026 · Primary source

MLN Connects Newsletter for April 9, 2026

Score 73PRIMARYregulatoryCMS

Summary

The April 9, 2026 CMS MLN Connects newsletter consolidates several significant FY 2027 proposed payment rules and compliance updates. CMS issued proposed rules for SNF PPS (2.4% rate update, case-mix upcoding RFI), IRF PPS (2.4% update, $355M estimated payment increase), IPF PPS (2.3% update, $50M increase), and hospice (2.4% update, $785M increase, proposed aggregate cap of $36,210.11). The newsletter also announces a mandatory CLFS data reporting window opening May 1, 2026, applicable laboratory reporting obligations, and an OIG finding that some SNFs inaccurately reported related party costs on Medicare cost reports.

What this may mean

The FY 2027 proposed rules set payment rate trajectories for SNFs, IRFs, inpatient psychiatric facilities, and hospices, with comment deadlines of June 1 for all four rules. The IPF PPS proposed rule is directly relevant to behavioral health providers, projecting a 2.3% rate increase and $50M in additional payments for FY 2027. The OIG-identified SNF related party cost reporting compliance issue, coupled with CMS's SNF VBP adjustments estimated at $208.4M in FY 2026, represents ongoing audit and overpayment exposure for SNF operators.

Informational only. Not legal, medical, financial, or other professional advice. Always consult a qualified professional familiar with your specific facts before relying on any item.

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