Comment on CMS-2024-0016-0060

File Code: CMS-3367-FC. Title: Medicare Program; Strengthening Oversight of Accrediting Organizations (AOs) and Preventing AO Conflicts of Interest, and Related Provisions Subject: Public Comment on Strengthening Oversight and Quality Improvements for Medicaid Beneficiaries I am writing to express my strong support for CMS and its efforts to strengthen oversight for AOs. While this regulation is primarily associated with the Medicare program, its benefits are crucial for the millions of low-income individuals, families, and people with disabilities who depend on Medicaid. As someone with family members who rely on Medicaid, I understand firsthand the importance of this rule. Most major healthcare providers serve both Medicare and Medicaid populations at the same time. Under federal law, healthcare facilities accredited by approved national AOs are granted "deemed status," which means they are automatically recognized as meeting the fundamental health and safety Conditions of Participation (CoPs) for both Medicare and Medicaid (Dha, 2026). By reinforcing AO validation systems and requiring AOs to use standardized and consistent interpretations of Medicare and Medicaid health and safety regulations, CMS is directly enhancing the baseline quality of care for Medicaid patients. This ensures that Medicaid beneficiaries are not subjected to lower safety standards or inconsistent facility oversight simply due to data gaps or variations in state surveyor interpretations. Additionally, for vulnerable populations, including Medicaid enrollees who often have limited choices about where to receive care, independent and unbiased facility inspections are vital. Prohibiting AOs from consulting beforehand during initial surveys, within 12 months of reaccreditation, or in direct response to consumer complaints removes any financial incentive for an AO to overlook systemic deficiencies. This guarantees that when a facility receives accreditation, Medicaid patients and their families can trust that the facility is safe (Pratt, 2026). I applaud CMS for addressing these regulatory gaps and prioritizing patient safety over administrative convenience. Thank you.