CMS seeks stability in the Medicare market

Stability in the Medicare market is among the priorities for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, according to the agency’s deputy administrator and the chief policy and regulatory officer.

John Brooks gave a list of his agency’s accomplishments and plans during the AHIP Medicare, Medicaid, Duals and Commercial Markets Forum in Washington.

Medicare Advantage enrollment continues to grow and Brooks said MA beneficiaries “are receiving tremendous benefits” from the program.

CMS is making progress on prior authorization reform, he said. In addition, CMS is looking at ways to lower drug prices for Medicare beneficiaries, with particular attention to lowering the cost of GLP-1 drugs. CMS also is working with technology companies to develop additional tools for Medicare beneficiaries to manage their care.

“We are seeking stability in the long term and an increase in public trust,” Brooks said.

Part D plans are experiencing what Brooks described as “an explosion in cost pressure,” leading to a rise in Part D premiums as well as drug manufacturers pulling back somewhat on their patient assistance programs.

“We’re on a path to stability in Part D but we’re also in a period of transition,” he said.

He said CMS also is looking at changes to risk adjustment in Medicare Advantage. He described the three pillars of CMS’ efforts as accuracy, stability and a return to a level playing field.

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Susan Rupe is editor in chief, magazine, for InsuranceNewsNet. She formerly served as communications director for an insurance agents' association and was an award-winning newspaper reporter and editor. Contact her at susan.rupe@innfeedback.com.