Lawmakers Urge Quick Start on CMS In-Home Care Project

Rep. Edward Markey (D-Mass.) and Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) have asked CMS to start early on implementing the "Independence at Home" program, a three-year Medicare demonstration project designed to provide in-home care to seniors with multiple chronic conditions. Proponents of the program -- which was outlined in the new health reform law -- say it would ensure better care for seniors and reduce Medicare expenditures by curbing costly emergency department visits.

• "Wyden, Markey Urge Quicker Launch of Home Care Demo" (Lillis, "Healthwatch," The Hill, 6/29).