GAO Report on Home Infusion Therapy
The Government Accountability Office (GAO) has issued a report on “Home Infusion Therapy: Differences between Medicare and Private Insurers' Coverage.” The report describes (1) coverage of home infusion therapy components under Medicare fee-for-service, (2) coverage and payment for home infusion therapy by other health insurers, and (3) the utilization and quality management practices that health insurers use with home infusion therapy benefits. Noting that the extent of Medicare coverage of infusion services varies by the beneficiary’s condition and treatment needs, the GAO recommends that the HHS Secretary conduct a study of home infusion therapy to inform Congress regarding the potential program costs, savings, and other issues associated with a comprehensive Medicare benefit.
