Medicare and Medicaid programs; conditions for coverage for organ procurement organizations (OPOs). Final rule

This rule finalizes the February 4, 2005 proposed rule entitled "Medicare and Medicaid Programs; Conditions for Coverage for Organ Procurement Organizations (OPOs)." It establishes new conditions for coverage for organ procurement organizations (OPOs) that include multiple new outcome and process performance measures based on organ donor potential and other related factors in each service area of qualified OPOs. Our goal is to improve OPO performance and increase organ donation. In addition, this final rule re-certifies these 58 OPOs from August 1, 2006 through July 31, 2010 and provides an opportunity for them to sign agreements with the Secretary that will begin on August 1, 2006 and end on January 31, 2011. New agreements are needed so that the Medicare and Medicaid Programs can continue to pay them for their organ procurement activities after July 31, 2006.