Federal Government Shutdown: What You Need to Know about Medicare

Congressional inability to pass appropriations legislation for the Calendar Year 2026 has impacted some of the operations of Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). CMS has instructed its contractors to temporarily stop processing claims, a process that will last 10 days.  Physicians and practices can continue to submit claims during this time; however, payments will not be released until the hold is lifted. 

Telehealth Coverage Changes

Due to the expiration of the Medicare telehealth COVID-19 Public Health Emergency waiver on October 1, 2025, telehealth services that are not behavioral and mental health services might not be covered in the absence of Congressional action. Physicians who choose to continue to provide telehealth services on or after October 1, 2025, may want to consider using an Advance Beneficiary Notice of Noncoverage (ABN) before the service is rendered to Medicare beneficiaries. Covered telehealth services through Medicare Shared Savings Program Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) will continue to receive payment.

Other Services and Programs Affected

Several important CMS key services could be temporarily paused or delayed. Such services include facility survey and certification processes as well as rulemaking and policy development.

ASA will continue to monitor any changes to CMS policies and provide members with up-to-date guidance. If you encounter issues submitting claims to your Medicare contractor, please contact ASA at [email protected].