Doctors, patients, and seniors groups are airing new grievances about Medicare Advantage, arguing the growing government program is failing seniors and making life miserable for doctors and other providers.
But health insurance companies — most of which make sizable profits on the MA plans they offer — are defending the private alternative to traditional Medicare. They say MA remains popular among those who pick their plans and provides extra benefits that help keep older adults healthy. The insurance industry’s primary lobbying group also hinted at litigation if the government moved forward with a regulation that would beef up audits on MA plans.
This summer, the Biden administration asked the public to submit thoughts on ways to improve the Medicare Advantage program, which will likely encompass a majority of all Medicare beneficiaries by next year. The feedback won’t affect 2023 MA plans, which are solidified and will start enrolling people next month. But it could influence how the government approaches regulations for 2024, which will come out in February.
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