MLN Connects Newsletter for April 23, 2026

Summary

The April 23, 2026 CMS MLN Connects newsletter announces resources for the 2026 Interoperability Standards and Prior Authorization for Drugs proposed rule (CMS-0062-P), with public comments due June 15, 2026. It also announces CMS's comprehensive Behavioral Health Strategy, organized around five strategic pillars covering mental health, SUD prevention and treatment, pain management, care efficiencies, and special populations, including children and adolescents. Additional items include the May 11 HETS vendor enrollment deadline, a May 15 Open Payments data review deadline, mandatory CLFS reporting beginning May 1, and an OIG-flagged 35.2% improper payment rate for lower limb orthoses in 2024.