The rapid growth of Medicare Advantage (MA) has led Congress to consider options to lower costs while also hoping to improve program coverage.
Hearing highlights: On July 22, House Ways & Means Health and Oversight subcommittees asked expert witnesses for potential improvements.
- Patient enthusiasm for MA is why lawmakers should ensure its integrity, said Ways and Means Committee Chair Jason Smith (R-MO).
- It’s essential that Congress ensure prompt and fair payments, said committee Ranking Member Lloyd Doggett (D-TX).
The big picture: Half of Medicare beneficiaries now opt for MA plans, but physicians and hospitals say reforms are needed to improve reimbursements as they face greater financial pressures.
- The CAP has detailed several concerns about private health payers—including MA plans—and tactics that interfere with patient services.
- Read the CAP’s recommendations to solve these problems.
Go deeper: Watch the hearing and read witness testimony.