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- Lawmakers open to making Medicare Advantage reforms
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.