MSA News - CMS Finalizes 2016 Payment and Policy Updates for Medicare Health and Drug Plans

On April 6, 2015, The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released final Medicare Advantage (MA) and Part D Prescription Drug program changes for 2016.

In their news release, Andy Slavitt, acting CMS Administrator said, “These policies strengthen Medicare Advantage for current and future consumers by encouraging higher quality care. As the Medicare Advantage marketplace continues to grow, consumers are getting access to better care through more choice and competition. Seniors and people with disabilities, including the dual-eligible population, will continue to have an extensive choice of plans, affordable premiums, and better and more transparent information about provider networks and pharmacies.”

The Medicare Advantage and the Part D Prescription Drug programs’ continue to grow since the Affordable Care Act became law. Medicare Advantage has reached record high enrollments each year since 2010, a trend continuing in 2015 with a cumulative increase of more than 40 percent since 2010. At the same time, premiums have fallen by nearly 6 percent from 2010 to 2015. And, more than 90 percent of Medicare beneficiaries have access to a $0 premium Medicare Advantage plan. 

To view a fact sheet on the 2016 Rate Announcement and final Call Letter, please click here >>