Determination of blended benchmark amount study

(a)

Sense of Congress

It is the sense of Congress that the inclusion of quality increases in the determination of blended benchmark amounts under section 1853(n)(4) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395w–23(n)(4)) undermines the goal of delivering high-quality care under the Medicare program under title XVIII of such Act. (b)

Study and report

Not later than one year after the date of enactment of this section, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, in consultation with relevant stakeholders, shall conduct a study and submit to Congress a report on the effects of the inclusion of quality percentage increases under section 1853(n)(5) of such Act in the determination of blended benchmark amounts under section 1853(n)(4) of such Act. Such study and report shall include an analysis of the following: (1)The authority of the Secretary to remove such increases from the determination of such amounts. (2)The effects of including such increases in the determination of such amounts on Medicare Advantage organizations (including the effects on any contracts entered into by such organizations). (3)The financial impact of including such increases in the determination of such amounts by county. (4)The effects of including such increases in the determination of such amounts on individuals enrolled in a plan under part C of title XVIII of such Act.