Comment on CMS-2026-2377-0002

I strongly support CMS’s proposal to establish national Medicare payment for individual and group health and well-being coaching services under CPT codes 0591T, 0592T, and 0593T. As an advanced practice registered nurse and board-certified Health and Wellness Nurse Coach, I support expanding access to coaching for Medicare beneficiaries managing chronic conditions, serious illness, complex treatment plans, and health-related behavior changes. Health and well-being coaching can strengthen self-management, goal setting, confidence, engagement, care coordination, and quality of life. CMS should explicitly recognize both American Holistic Nurses Credentialing Corporation credentials, NC-BC and HWNC-BC, as meeting the proposed national certification standard. AHNCC-certified nurse coaches demonstrate specialized preparation and competence in evidence-informed coaching, communication, ethical practice, goal setting, behavior change, and person-centered care. I also support coverage of individual and group coaching, continued telehealth access, and flexibility in the number of sessions based on beneficiary needs. CMS should permit qualified, nationally certified nurse coaches to furnish these services under general supervision when consistent with state law and professional scope of practice. Requiring direct supervision could unnecessarily restrict access in rural, community-based, home-based, and interdisciplinary care settings. I urge CMS to finalize national payment for health and well-being coaching through a clear and sustainable reimbursement pathway that recognizes qualified nurse coaches and supports equitable access across care settings.