The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services today finalized additional provisions for the Medicare Advantage and Part D prescription drug programs beginning in 2022.

The rule permits a “preferred” specialty tier for Part D, which will provide a lower cost-sharing amount than the other specialty tier by allowing Part D plans more negotiating power with manufacturers.

The rule also codifies updates to Star Ratings for Part D plans and requires Part D plans to disclose pharmacy performance measures to CMS. Beginning in 2023, plans must provide a real-time benefit tool to help enrollees find the most cost-effective prescription drugs for their needs.

Headline
A JAMA study published Feb. 18 found that 10% of Medicare Advantage beneficiaries — approximately 2.9 million — have needed to find other health coverage for…
Headline
The Senate Special Committee on Aging held a hearing Feb. 11 on issues impacting physician burnout. The AHA provided a statement for the hearing and urged…
Perspective
Public
More than 34.1 million Americans were enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan in 2025, accounting for 54% of all Medicare beneficiaries. We have seen enrollment…
Headline
A KFF analysis released Jan. 28 found that Medicare Advantage insurers made nearly 53 million prior authorization determinations in 2024, an increase…
Headline
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Jan. 26 released proposed changes to Medicare Advantage plan capitation rates and Part D payment policies for…
Headline
The AHA Jan. 26 expressed support and provided its perspective on certain provisions within the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ proposed…