Program Update: CMS-2451-F has been published in the Federal Register. The proposed rule is effective Oct. 13, 2026. The recently posted rule prohibits federal and state Medicaid and CHIP program dollars from being spent on gender-affirming care for persons under 19 years of age.

Earlier this year, CMS-3481-P —a related proposed rule— was reported by Drew Updike, MD, a senior healthcare consultant. That rule was published in mid-December 2025.

During the next live edition of the venerable Monitor Monday Internet broadcast, Dr. Updike will share the potential impacts if this proposed rule and CMS 3481-P are both finalized.

The broadcast will also include these instantly recognizable segments:

• Monday Rounds: Ronald Hirsch, MD, vice president of R1 RCM, will make his Monday Rounds.

• The RAC Report: Healthcare attorney Knicole Emanuel, a partner at the law firm of Poyner Spruill, will report the latest news about auditors.

• Risky Business: Healthcare attorney David Glaser, a shareholder in the law offices of Fredrikson & Byron, will join the broadcast with his trademark segment.

• Legislative Update: Cate Brantley, legislative affairs liaison for Zelis, will report on current healthcare legislation.