Communications

(April 3, 2026) – MLN Connects Provider eNews from the Medicare Learning Network
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services issued the following updates in the MLN Connects Provider eNews:

• The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Announce Health Care Advisory Committee Members to Improve Patient Care and Modernize the U.S. Health Care System
• CMS Marks Milestone in Expanding Patient-Centered Innovation with Substance Access Beneficiary Engagement Incentive
• Accountable Care Organizations: Apply to the New LEAD Model
• New ASPIRE Model to Deliver Support to Children and Youth with Complex Medical Needs
• Hospitals: Outpatient Prospective Payment System Drug Acquisition Cost Survey Deadline Extended to April 7
• End Stage Renal Disease Prospective Payment System: XPHOZAHTM Included in Bundled Payment
• Clinical Diagnostic Laboratory Reporting: Are You an Applicable Lab?

ECRI Report Lists Top 10 Patient Safety Concerns in 2026
The Emergency Care Research Institute and the Institute for Safe Medication Practices released the "Top 10 Patient Safety Concerns for 2026" report, which highlights growing systemwide risks, with AI-driven diagnostic errors, workforce pressures, rural access challenges and emergency department boarding among the most urgent issues. According to the ECRI report, preventable adverse events in U.S. hospitals cost an estimated $17.1 billion each year.

These findings reinforce that patient safety depends on strong leadership, transparent reporting and a culture of learning — not just technology.

Before You Go …

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has released a new antimicrobial resistance toolkit with free resources to support public education and communication efforts. The toolkit includes videos, social media assets, newsletter content, talking points and digital graphics designed to help raise awareness and prevent the spread of antimicrobial resistance.
• CDC Project Firstline and the American Medical Association will host a pertussis webinar at noon Tuesday, April 7. The session will cover identification, transmission risks, infection prevention, post-exposure prophylaxis and coordination with public health partners. Registration is required.
• New national data from a CDC-funded study show that sepsis remains a serious threat to children. Each year, more than 18,000 U.S. children are hospitalized with sepsis, and about 1,800 do not survive, with nearly three-quarters of cases beginning in the community. Recognizing infections early and acting fast can save lives. Learn how to get ahead of sepsis at cdc.gov/sepsis.