MACPAC - Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission

Background

The Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission (MACPAC) is a non-partisan legislative branch agency established to provide policy and data analysis and make recommendations to Congress, the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and the states on a wide array of issues affecting Medicaid and the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Appointed by the U.S. Comptroller General, MACPAC's 17 commissioners hail from diverse regions across the United States, bringing broad expertise and a wide range of perspectives on Medicaid and CHIP.

Key Strategic Focus

MACPAC's strategic focus encompasses:

• Policy Analysis and Recommendations: Providing evidence-based guidance on Medicaid and CHIP policies to inform legislative and administrative decisions.

• Data Collection and Reporting: Compiling and disseminating comprehensive data on Medicaid and CHIP enrollment, spending, benefits, and access to care.

• Program Evaluation: Assessing the effectiveness and efficiency of Medicaid and CHIP programs to ensure they meet the needs of beneficiaries.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Consulting with state officials, congressional and executive branch staff, beneficiaries, health care providers, researchers, and policy experts to inform its analyses and recommendations.

Financials and Funding

As a federal agency, MACPAC's funding is allocated through the federal budget process. Specific details regarding total funds raised, recent funding rounds, and notable investors are not publicly disclosed. The capital is utilized to support MACPAC's operations, including research, data collection, policy analysis, and the publication of reports and recommendations.

Pipeline Development

MACPAC does not engage in product development or clinical trials. Its focus is on policy analysis and recommendations related to Medicaid and CHIP programs.

Technological Platform and Innovation

MACPAC employs various technological platforms and scientific methodologies to support its mission, including:

• Data Analytics: Utilizing advanced data analysis techniques to interpret complex datasets related to Medicaid and CHIP.

• Statistical Modeling: Applying statistical models to forecast trends and assess the impact of policy changes.

• Geospatial Analysis: Employing geospatial tools to analyze access to care and service utilization across different regions.

• Stakeholder Surveys: Conducting surveys and interviews with stakeholders to gather qualitative insights into program effectiveness and areas for improvement.

Leadership Team

MACPAC's leadership comprises:

• Verlon Johnson: Chair of MACPAC, providing strategic direction and oversight.

• Kate Massey: Executive Director, responsible for managing daily operations and coordinating research activities.

• Sarah Kaczmarek: Managing Director of Public Affairs, overseeing communication strategies and stakeholder engagement.

In May 2025, Gene L. Dodaro, Comptroller General of the United States, announced the appointment of two new members to MACPAC:

• April Hartman, MD, FAAP: A board-certified general pediatrician with over 25 years of clinical experience, serving as Professor and Division Chief of General Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine at the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University.

• Anne Karl, JD: A partner at Manatt Health with 15 years of experience in health care, advising states and providers on Medicaid and CHIP issues.

Additionally, four members were reappointed to new terms, which will expire in April 2028.

Competitor Profile

As a federal advisory body, MACPAC does not have direct competitors. However, it collaborates with and is informed by various organizations and entities involved in Medicaid and CHIP policy, including:

• Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS): The federal agency administering Medicaid and CHIP programs.

• State Medicaid Agencies: State-level organizations responsible for implementing Medicaid programs.

• Congressional Committees: Legislative bodies that oversee health policy and funding.

• Research Institutions and Think Tanks: Organizations conducting studies and analyses related to health policy.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

MACPAC engages in strategic collaborations and partnerships to enhance its effectiveness, including:

• Federal Agencies: Collaborating with CMS and other federal entities to align on policy recommendations and data collection efforts.

• State Governments: Consulting with state Medicaid agencies to understand local challenges and inform recommendations.

• Academic Institutions: Partnering with universities and research organizations to access expertise and data.

• Advocacy Groups: Engaging with organizations representing beneficiaries to ensure diverse perspectives are considered.

Operational Insights

MACPAC operates as an independent, non-partisan entity within the legislative branch, ensuring its analyses and recommendations are objective and free from political influence. Its work is guided by a commitment to improving access to quality care for Medicaid and CHIP beneficiaries.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

MACPAC continues to focus on:

• Policy Innovation: Exploring new models of care and financing to improve program efficiency and effectiveness.

• Data Enhancement: Improving data collection and analysis to better inform policy decisions.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Strengthening partnerships with stakeholders to ensure recommendations are grounded in real-world experiences.

• Program Evaluation: Assessing the impact of policy changes and identifying best practices for program implementation.