A nationwide poll commissioned by the National Alliance for Care at Home (the Alliance) found that 70% of Americans oppose the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) 2026 Medicare home health proposed rule, which would cut Medicare home health funding by an additional $1.1 billion in 2026.

The poll, conducted by research consulting firm Fabrizio Ward, found strong bipartisan opposition to the proposed cut, according to the Alliance. A full 91% of voters believe home health services must be available when Medicare patients need extra medical support, and 73% of voters say that cutting Medicare home health services harms patients and legitimate providers.  

“The results send a crystal-clear message: Americans want more home-based care, not less, and preserving access to care is critical,” Dr. Steve Landers, CEO of the Alliance, said in a statement. “Cutting home health doesn’t save money – it hurts patients, worsens outcomes and costs taxpayers more in the long run.”

The poll revealed some differences in opinions among respondents based on their political affiliation. Among those who voted for former Vice President Kamala Harris, 87% opposed the home health proposed rule, while 53% of those who voted for President Donald Trump opposed it. Among swing voters, 66% opposed the rule.

The overall opposition to CMS’ proposal shows Americans see home health care as vital for keeping patients safe at home, reducing costs and easing pressure on overburdened hospitals and emergency departments.

“These numbers should give every lawmaker pause,” Dr. Landers said. “Patients want to recover where they’re the safest – at home. It’s time for Congress to protect what’s working and stop the home care bleeding. Lawmakers have the opportunity to protect a program that saves lives, lowers costs, enjoys overwhelming bipartisan support and reflects the clear will of the American people.”

The Alliance urged Congress and CMS not to finalize the proposed payment cuts and to work with providers to revise their approach, strengthening access to home-based care rather than weakening it.