Which act requires that healthcare providers demonstrate quality in the care they provide to receive reimbursement?

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) is pivotal in transforming healthcare delivery and payment systems in the United States. One of its key components is the emphasis on quality improvement in patient care to ensure that healthcare providers are incentivized to deliver high-quality services. The ACA introduced various payment models that link reimbursement to the quality of care provided, encouraging providers to focus on patient outcomes rather than the volume of services rendered.

For instance, through initiatives like value-based purchasing, the ACA mandates that providers meet specific quality benchmarks to receive full reimbursement for services. This systemic approach aims to enhance the overall effectiveness of healthcare services, reduce costs, and improve patient satisfaction. The ACA also established programs such as the Hospital Readmission Reduction Program, which financially penalizes hospitals for excessive readmissions, thus further reinforcing the accountability of providers in demonstrating and maintaining high-quality care.

By focusing on the intersection between quality of care and reimbursement, the Affordable Care Act represents a significant shift towards a more patient-centered approach in the healthcare system.