The U.S. Medicare draft inpatient rule for fiscal 2026 discusses a number of coding proposals, although the agency seems disinclined to go along with a proposal to increase payment rates for TAVR devices by switching the procedures to a different diagnostic-related group.

The new technology add-on payment for the TAG thoracic branch endoprosthesis is likely coming to an end, but the device’s manufacturer, Gore Medical Inc., petitioned CMS to reassign the procedure to a new diagnostic-related group that would more accurately reflect the costs of the related procedure.

In a roadmap to change animal testing requirements for INDs, the U.S. FDA said its new approach will improve drug safety, hasten the evaluation process, and lower costs for companies and patients. It’s another step in a process of changing rules put in place decades ago.

The battle to claim the continuous glucose monitor with the longest wear time continues with Dexcom Inc.’s G7 15 Day continuous glucose monitor gaining U.S. FDA clearance on April 10 for adults with diabetes. The company said it now takes the lead with the 15-day duration, but Abbott Laboratories also offers 15 days of useful life for its Freestyle Libre 3 plus.