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Medicare Watch

Medicare Watch articles are featured in Medicare Rights’ weekly newsletter, which helps readers stay updated on Medicare policy and advocacy developments and learn about changes in Medicare benefits and rules. Subscribe now by visiting www.medicarerights.org/newsletters.

Medicare Rights Supports Proposal to Close Loophole in Physician Self-Referral Policies

Last week, Joe Baker, president of the Medicare Rights Center, sent a letter to the leaders of the U.S. Senate Finance Committee, Chairman Orrin Hatch and Ranking Member Ron Wyden expressing support for a proposal to close a loophole in physician self-referral policies. The Ethics in Patient Referrals Act (the Act) prohibits certain types of referrals, specifically ones where the referring doctor owns or has an interest in the provider who administers the referred service. The Act includes exceptions for certain services, including those that could be provided by a physician while the patient is present for the initial visit to aid in diagnosis and minimize delays.

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Consumers, Providers, and Health Plans Unite in Support for Part B Prescription Drug Payment Model

As the comment period closes on a Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) proposal to test new payment strategies for Medicare Part B prescription drugs, 25 organizations representing people with Medicare, health plans, and health care professionals are voicing their strong support for the model. The proposal presents an opportunity to improve health care quality and value for people with Medicare and also support providers in delivering the right care at the right time.

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Attention New Yorkers with Medicare and Medicaid: Would You Like To Share Your Experiences with the New Managed-Care Plans?

Do you or a loved one have Medicare and Medicaid and long term care needs? If so, you may have recently experienced a change to the way you receive your coverage. The Medicare Rights Center’s Coalition to Protect the Rights of New York’s Dually Eligible (CPRNYDE) tracks changes New Yorkers with Medicare and Medicaid and long-term care experience, and we would like to hear your story.

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Medicare Rights Supports Proposal to Close Loophole in Physician Self-Referral Policies

Last week, Joe Baker, president of the Medicare Rights Center, sent a letter to the leaders of the U.S. Senate Finance Committee, Chairman Orrin Hatch and Ranking Member Ron Wyden expressing support for a proposal to close a loophole in physician self-referral policies. The Ethics in Patient Referrals Act (the Act) prohibits certain types of referrals, specifically ones where the referring doctor owns or has an interest in the provider who administers the referred service. The Act includes exceptions for certain services, including those that could be provided by a physician while the patient is present for the initial visit to aid in diagnosis and minimize delays.

President Obama Proclaims May 2016 as Older Americans Month

Last week, the President proclaimed May 2016 as Older Americans Month. Celebrating the achievements, unique knowledge, and contributions of older Americans, the proclamation shows appreciation for the many kinds of work that older adults do for our country.

Consumers, Providers, and Health Plans Unite in Support for Part B Prescription Drug Payment Model

As the comment period closes on a Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) proposal to test new payment strategies for Medicare Part B prescription drugs, 25 organizations representing people with Medicare, health plans, and health care professionals are voicing their strong support for the model. The proposal presents an opportunity to improve health care quality and value for people with Medicare and also support providers in delivering the right care at the right time.

AARP Survey Highlights Prescription Drug Use Among Older Adults

This week, AARP released the results of a survey that examined consumers’ prescription drug use and opinions regarding cost. The survey captured common struggles consumers face with the cost of prescription drugs and consumer views on legal strategies to reduce prescription drug costs.

Attention New Yorkers with Medicare and Medicaid: Would You Like To Share Your Experiences with the New Managed-Care Plans?

Do you or a loved one have Medicare and Medicaid and long term care needs? If so, you may have recently experienced a change to the way you receive your coverage. The Medicare Rights Center’s Coalition to Protect the Rights of New York’s Dually Eligible (CPRNYDE) tracks changes New Yorkers with Medicare and Medicaid and long-term care experience, and we would like to hear your story.