AHA cites negative consequences for average payment cut for MA, Part D plans

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ proposal to cut payments for Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D plans by an average 0.95% in 2016 “continues a trend that will negatively impact plans, providers and beneficiaries,” Linda Fishman, AHA senior vice president of public policy analysis and development, said in comments submitted today. The letter also expresses concern that the agency’s proposal to cap total risk-adjustment payments at pre-2000 levels beginning in 2017 would “limit the benefit of risk-adjustment which is needed for the sustainability of plans that enroll higher acuity populations.” AHA voiced support for CMS proposals to define best practices and expectations for in-home health risk assessments; reduce the weight of six star ratings measures while it assesses the effects of socioeconomic status; and closely monitor MA plan networks for adherence to network adequacy standards.