Tag: Medicare Advantage

Prior Authorization Automation

Can Automation Solve the Prior Authorization Problem in Healthcare?

In today’s healthcare ecosystem, prior authorization (PA) remains one of the most burdensome administrative processes, creating delays, denials, and dissatisfaction among providers and patients alike. Originally designed to ensure appropriate care and control costs, the process has become a major pain point due to its manual, repetitive, and inconsistent nature. But with the rise of […]
Medicare Advantage plans benefit

Medicare Advantage Plans Benefit from Expert Medical Billing

As the U.S. healthcare system continues to evolve, Medicare Advantage (MA) plans have seen rapid growth, offering seniors an alternative to traditional Medicare. With more than 30 million beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare Advantage as of 2025, the demand for administrative efficiency and accurate claims processing has never been greater. Medical billing companies play a pivotal […]
FY 2026 IPPS Proposed Rule

IPPS Proposed Rule: Key Updates to HRRP, HAC, and VBP Programs

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has unveiled its Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 IPPS Proposed Rule, which outlines significant updates to three key Medicare hospital quality initiatives: the Hospital-Acquired Condition (HAC) Reduction Program, the Hospital Readmissions Reduction Program (HRRP), and the Hospital Value-Based Purchasing (VBP) Program. These proposed changes, outlined in the IPPS […]
Prior Authorizations

Prior Authorization in Medicare: What You Need to Know

Prior authorization, the requirement for pre-approval from your insurer for certain services, is a common practice in both Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage (MA) plans. While it helps manage utilization and costs, it can also be frustrating, especially when a request is denied. A 2023 study by health policy research revealed the increasing prevalence of […]
Medicare Advantage and Part D rule

Medicare Rights Center Comments on 2026 Medicare Advantage & Part D Rule

The Medicare Rights Center has submitted comments on the proposed Medicare Advantage and Part D rule for 2026 from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This annual rule introduces critical provisions aimed at strengthening prior authorization standards, enhancing transparency, and improving access to accurate plan information for beneficiaries. We strongly support these reforms […]
Prior Authorization reforms

CMS Prior Authorization Reforms: A Step Forward, But More Needed

The updated CMS regulations on prior authorization have been lauded as a significant step toward reducing administrative burdens for physicians. However, critics argue that the changes fall short of addressing the broader issues. Accelerating Prior Authorization and Enhancing Transparency Issued in January, these regulations mandate federally regulated health plans to enhance electronic health information exchange […]
CMS Clarifies Organization Determinations: Key Updates for Medicare Advantage

CMS Clarifies Organization Determinations: Key Updates for Medicare Advantage

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has introduced significant updates to clarify the definition and processes related to Medicare Advantage organization determinations, particularly in inpatient settings. The proposed rule reaffirms that decisions made during concurrent reviews, such as reclassifying an inpatient admission to outpatient or denying inpatient coverage, qualify as organization determinations under […]
Medicare Advantage denials

Understanding the Rise of Medicare Advantage Denials: What Need to Know

Medicare Advantage (MA) plans, a type of private health insurance, have become increasingly popular among seniors. These plans offer additional benefits beyond traditional Medicare, but they also come with their own set of complexities.  One of the most significant issues faced by MA beneficiaries is Medicare Advantage denials for medical services. Recent data has revealed […]
Comprehensive Overview of Medicare Coverage for 2024

Comprehensive Overview of Medicare Coverage for 2024

Medicare coverage is the federal health insurance program for Americans 65 and older, as well as younger individuals with long-term disabilities. It covers a wide range of medical services, including hospitalizations, doctor’s visits, prescription drugs, and specialized care like skilled nursing, home health, hospice, and preventive services There are two primary ways to receive Medicare […]
Addressing Prior Authorization Burdens: Recent Reforms and Expert Perspectives

Addressing Prior Authorization Burdens: Recent Reforms and Expert Perspectives

The prior authorization burdens associated with the process have long been a source of frustration for healthcare providers and patients. These burdens can impede optimal care by creating delays in treatment and increasing administrative tasks. However, recent legislative changes and insurer policies aim to alleviate these concerns and streamline the prior authorization process. A radiation […]