Depending on implementation, this directory of providers may be useful in ensuring continuity of care for beneficiaries and allow them to select plans that best meet their health needs. The tool is still a work-in-progress with some issues found in testing, although it is a step towards transparency.
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Department of Health and Human Services
A directive issued by the President that manages operations of the federal government. Executive orders have the force of law but must align with existing statutes and constitutional authority.
Who It Impacts: Federal agencies and employees, directing them on how to implement laws or carry out government functions. Executive orders can also influence businesses and individuals when they relate to issues like immigration, trade, or labor policies.
Who Is Not Impacted: Private citizens and businesses do not have to directly follow an executive order unless it leads to regulations or policies that apply to them. For example, an executive order directing federal agencies to increase renewable energy use does not mandate action from private companies, but it may influence policy shifts that eventually affect them.
Date Enacted
September 18, 2025
Last Updated
December 19, 2025
Policy Type
Healthcare Coverage
Healthcare Delivery, Services & Quality
No items found.
Summary
This rule focuses on requiring Medicare Advantage (MA) plans to submit accurate provider directory data to CMS for inclusion in the Medicare Plan Finder, updating changes within 30 days, and attesting annually to accuracy. Along with CMS’s regulatory impact estimates of cost and time savings for beneficiaries and documentation burdens for plans.
Impact Analysis
Legal Challenges
N/A
Take Institutional Action
- Monitor implementation of the directory and tool to ensure it is meeting its aims of supporting Medicare beneficiaries with informed decisionmaking.
- Provide the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services with feedback on the tool.
- Encourage beneficiaries to check with their providers instead of fully relying on the tool, given that it is still a work-in-progress.
Associated or Derivative Policies
N/A
Policy Prior to 2025
N/A
