Bipartisan legislation introduced Tuesday in the House of Representatives to overhaul Medicare fraud enforcement includes previously introduced acts from Rep. Jim Renacci (R-OH) and other Ways and Means Committee proposals.
The Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act was introduced by Reps. Kevin Brady (R-TX) and Jim McDermott (D-WA). It includes Renacci’s Better Efficiency and Administrative Simplification Act.
“I was pleased to see the Better Efficiency and Administrative Simplification Act included in a broad package to eradicate government waste, fraud and abuse, and protect Medicare beneficiaries,” Renacci said. “The idea for this legislation came straight from a constituent in North Canton who expressed concern over government waste and the Medicare program’s failure to provide a paperless option. Based on preliminary data, this common-sense legislation will save Medicare millions in program funds each year.”
Renacci’s portion of the bill would allow Medicare beneficiaries to receive more frequent summary notices and other documents, including emails, as a defense against fraudulent billing. It also gives the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services the ability to increase the length of contract years for Medicare Administrative Contractors, another move to fight fraud.
“Congress must act now to strengthen the Medicare program and protect it for current and future beneficiaries,” Renacci said. “I was proud to co-sponsor the Protecting the Integrity of Medicare Act, and I look forward to seeing the House act on this important legislation before the end of the year.”