Medicare program; reduction in the number of providers and health maintenance organizations dealing directly with HCFA. Notice of proposed rulemaking.

These proposed regulations would modify current Medicare rules concerning the option that allows Medicare providers to elect to receive payment directly from HCFA, rather than through an intermediary, for covered services furnished to beneficiaries. The regulations would also give HCFA the authority to make other arrangements to service Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) that are presently dealing directly with HCFA. The regulations would clarify that HCFA may contract with any organization for the purpose of making payments to providers and HMOs.