CMS Opens New Programs to Target Most Vulnerable Populations
With a direct correlation between age and infection, CMS provides guidance on how Medicare Advantage and Part D Plans can act appropriately to Covid.
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The connection between age and infection rate has become clear throughout the course of the Virus and therefore CMS is urging providers to act accordingly. “Medicare beneficiaries are at the greatest risk of serious illness due to COVID-19 and CMS will continue doing everything in our power to protect them,” said CMS Administrator Seema Verma. “Today we announced guidance to Medicare Advantage and Part D plans to remove barriers that could prevent or delay beneficiaries from receiving care.” - Healthpayer Intelligence
The focus for healthcare companies is to increase access to care related to Covid, such as cost, as much as possible. The range of cost reductions includes:
Waiving Covid test cost-sharing (no out of pocket cost to you)
Waiving treatment cost, including: primary care, emergency room visits, and telehealth services
Eliminating prescription refill restrictions
Increasing access to home or mail delivery of prescriptions
Increasing overall access to telehealth services
These guidelines were coupled with a mandate by CMS to make sure healthcare workers are taking all necessary precautions to reduce risk of exposure for older adults. This commitment was joined by payers (health insurance companies) who pledged to reduce costs of services wherever possible while also mitigating any prescription drug shortages to the best of their ability.
In addition, CMS released a Part D Senior Savings Model, allowing Medicare beneficiaries to choose from a selection of insulins with a freeze on the copay at $35.00.
Now more than ever people are relying on the healthcare system and insurance companies to follow through on their promises.