For Immediate Release:
August 4, 2004

For Further Information:
Scott Kramer
(212) 308-1414, ext. 329

New York, NY-The American Geriatrics Society (AGS) praised the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) today for proposing regulations to help implement the Medicare Modernization Act (MMA) of 2003 that would strengthen preventive care for older adults, prolonging and enriching their lives.

Released on July 27, the proposed regulations include a one-time "Welcome to Medicare" preventive examination at age 65 for new enrollees. The exam "will allow the physician to diagnose problems early when treatment is more effective," CMS officials stated. In conjunction with the preventive exam, education, counseling and referral to other preventive services will be made available to beneficiaries through the provider.

The AGS is excited that the proposed benefit includes several of the components of a geriatric assessment. A review of the individual's functional ability and level of safety, including factors such as hearing impairment, activities of daily living, falls risk and home safety would be included, based on the use of an "appropriate screening instrument" as determined by the physician or other qualified provider. CMS would give providers the leeway to choose any available standardized screening test recognized by several physician organizations, including the AGS.

Also slated for inclusion are standard preventive services such as mammography and diabetes screening as well as a review of the individual's comprehensive medical and social history and potential risk factors for depression.

"The American Geriatrics Society worked to ensure that the preventive benefit conceived of by CMS would include the essentially preventive components of a geriatric assessment, long a hallmark of geriatric care," according to AGS President Meghan Gerety, MD. We are pleased that the proposed benefit includes these pieces and are hopeful, through our efforts, that the final rule containing the benefit will maintain this important language."

Founded in 1942, the American Geriatrics Society is a nationwide, not-for-profit association of geriatrics health care professionals dedicated to improving the health, independence and quality of life of all older people. The Society supports this mission through activities in clinical practice, professional and public education, research and public policy. With an active membership of over 6,700 health care professionals, the Society has become a pivotal force in shaping attitudes, policies and practices in geriatric medicine.