Congressional Oversight of Medicare Program Intensifies: A Look at the Factors Surrounding the Scrutiny and Nephrology's Response

Abstract

In recent years, federal legislators and policymakers have increased their oversight of the Medicare program. This increased scrutiny accompanies federal budgetary constraint, the tenuous solvency of the Medicare program, changing congressional leadership, and safety concerns in health care. Two high-profile areas of focus have been the quality of care provided by physicians participating in the Medicare program and policies governing erythropoiesis-stimulating agents in the treatment of anemia. The nephrology community has sought to preserve its ability to provide appropriate, high-quality care to patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). These efforts include establishing and monitoring quality measures and advocating for the best care and patient choice for those with CKD. © 2008 National Kidney Foundation, Inc.