Public Inspection: CMS: Medicare Program: Strengthening Oversight of Accrediting Organizations and Preventing AO Conflicts of Interest, and Related Provisions

Federal Register

Jun 15, 2026

Pre-publication notice of final rule with comment period from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) establishing provisions to strengthen the oversight of Medicare national accrediting organizations by addressing conflicts of interest; establishing consistent standards, processes, and definitions; and updating the validation and performance standards systems. In addition, this rule revises the psychiatric hospital survey process, adds a limitation on terminated deemed providers and suppliers when reentering the program, and provides technical corrections for End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) facilities and Transplant Programs. This rule is effective June 16, 2027. Comments are due within 60 days of the publication of this notice, which is scheduled for June 16, 2026.

Accreditation · Behavioral health · Healthcare facilities · Legislation and regulations · Specialty care