The Medicare Evidence Development & Coverage Advisory Committee (MEDCAC) has appointed Amputee Coalition of America (ACA) President and CEO Kendra Calhoun to serve as a patient advocate for a two-year term beginning immediately, according to an ACA press release. The MEDCAC advises the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) on whether specific medical items and services are reasonable and necessary under Medicare law; the final decision on all issues rests with CMS. Supplementing the internal expertise of CMS, the MEDCAC is designed to ensure an unbiased and current consideration of innovative technology and science.
Kendra Calhoun
According to Barry M. Straube, MD, CMS chief medical officer and director of the Office of Clinical Standards and Quality, MEDCAC members are chosen for their background, education, and expertise in a wide variety of scientific, clinical, and related fields.
“Making decisions about what Medicare and Medicaid programs cover with consumer input is absolutely critical to making the best, most appropriate healthcare available to seniors and families with low incomes and resources,” Calhoun was quoted as saying. “I take this role very seriously and am honored to be selected for this important work.”
