A novel MAC algorithm is disclosed having various features for a modern CDMA interference-shared reverse link, including (a) link quality assurance, (b) individual congestion control, (c) variable data rate transition policy, and/or (d) reverse link partitioning. Link quality assurance is provided by monitoring transmission feedback information (ACK/NACK) to indirectly determine the quality of a communication link. Wireless devices are individually targeted to perform congestion control of the reverse link. Variable data transmission rates and discontinuous transmissions are achieved by individual wireless devices that autonomously adjust their transmission rate and transmit power. The reverse link can also be partitioned among the different wireless devices by individually controlling the transmit power of the wireless devices operating on the reverse link.