HHS proposes expanding Medicare

WASHINGTON, June 25 (UPI) -- U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius said Friday the department is proposing improved Medicare preventive care and access.

Sebelius said the proposed regulation will implement preventive health benefits created under the Affordable Care Act for seniors and those with disabilities who rely on Medicare for their healthcare coverage.

Under the rule, starting Jan. 1 Medicare will cover annual wellness visits so doctors and patients can develop a personalized prevention plan that takes a comprehensive approach to improving the patient's health. Also, Medicare patients will no longer have to pay any out-of-pocket costs for most preventive services, including the annual wellness visit.

Sebelius said in a statement the rule would also boost payments for primary care services. She said the proposed regulation would increase access to services by creating payment incentives for general surgeons and expand access to other types of healthcare providers.

"The proposed rule is just one part of a broader effort we are making to improve the health status of Medicare beneficiaries -- and all Americans," she said in the statement. "We recently announced the allocation of $500 million from the Prevention and Public Health Fund -- created by the Affordable Care Act -- to invest in the training and development of primary care professionals as well as preventive care activities and public health infrastructure.

"With these new benefits under Medicare, and investments in our health care system, the Affordable Care Act is continuing the Obama administration's historic work to promote wellness and reduce chronic disease."