Despite Enthusiasm, Here's Why Some Say MCCM Isn't a Bed of Roses

Why This Topic Matters

It helps readers understand why a Medicare demonstration model can affect patient communication, care planning, and expectations around hospice and ongoing treatment in serious illness settings.

Article Sections

1. Overview of concerns about the Medicare Care Choices Model

   Introduces the Medicare Care Choices Model and summarizes the cautionary viewpoint presented by a consumer advocacy organization. It frames the main areas of potential confusion discussed in the article.

2. Confusion over the law

   Discusses concerns about how hospice election and Medicare coverage are described in relation to terminal illness and other ongoing care needs. The section uses broad examples to illustrate the policy issue.

3. Confusion about treatment goals

   Explores concerns about language used to describe continuing treatment in the model and how that language relates to serious illness care. It also references the disease categories tied to the demonstration.

4. Confusion about when curative treatments are best

   Addresses concerns about the timing and appropriateness of ongoing treatment for some selected diagnoses. It also notes diagnoses discussed as not being included in the model.