Isakson Applauds Executive Order on Medicare Advantage to Improve Senior Health Care

WASHINGTON, Oct. 3 -- Sen. Johnny Isakson, R-Georgia, issued the following news release:

U.S. Senator Johnny Isakson, R-Ga., today applauded President Donald J. Trump's executive order strengthening the successful Medicare Advantage program that offers seniors increased choice and enhanced benefits through lower-cost private plans.

The president's executive order, called "Protecting and Improving Medicare for our Nation's Seniors," follows through on key pieces of Isakson's legislation enacted in 2018 to improve the quality and coordination of health care while reducing costs for Medicare beneficiaries living with chronic health conditions.

Today's executive order includes reauthorizing and strengthening some Medicare Advantage plans for beneficiaries with chronic conditions, expanding telehealth services, and extending the proven "independence at home" model that allows seniors to receive care from primary care teams.

"The CHRONIC Care Act, which I introduced and President Trump signed into law last year, was designed to improve overall health and help keep patients out of the hospital. Today's executive order follows through on that plan," said Isakson. "Medicare Advantage plans have been at the forefront of driving innovation in care coordination and quality improvements. Today's order will unleash even more innovation, allowing seniors to choose from more health plans that best meet their personal needs by offering expanded home care and telehealth services.

"From increased health care options for small businesses and contract employees, to short-term limited duration plans for cost-conscious consumers, to strengthening Medicare for our senior citizens, the administration is making good on its commitment to making health care better for more Americans."

Under the Trump administration, the number of Medicare Advantage plans available to seniors has increased by nearly 1,200 during the last two years.