Coverage Determination Clarity Act of 2023

The Coverage Determination Clarity Act of 2023 requires the federal government to annually review Medicare's local coverage rules starting in 2024 to ensure they do not restrict access to medical items and services beyond what is covered nationally. If a local rule unnecessarily limits coverage for FDA-approved treatments or devices (such as drugs or medical equipment), the Medicare contractor must revise it within 180 days. This directly affects Medicare beneficiaries by potentially expanding access to covered care and Medicare administrative contractors, who must align local rules with national standards. The law aims to standardize coverage decisions across regions and reduce inconsistent barriers for patients seeking approved medical items and services.