Originally Posted to Anthem Producer Online News | March 20, 2015
As you may already know, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recently released its annual Advance Rate Notice and draft Call Letter proposing changes to how the Medicare Advantage program is funded and administered. If finalized in a few weeks, those changes threaten to severely undermine the model of coordinated care that’s been shown to be so effective in bringing the right care at the right time to the 16 million seniors and persons with disabilities currently enrolled in the program. Now is the time to raise your voice and ask your elected officials to protect Medicare Advantage.
Years of cuts to Medicare Advantage enacted by CMS have taken a cumulative toll on the program and its beneficiaries in the form of higher costs and less choice. But, stakeholders across the health care spectrum – including Members of Congress – have already shown their support for the program and its millions of beneficiaries. By focusing on risk-based models and clinically-integrated care, Medicare Advantage delivers care where and when it’s needed most, distinguishing itself by showing what can be achieved in health care when that care is coordinated and focuses on preventive measures and outcomes.
We need producers, like you, to take action by asking your elected officials to support Medicare Advantage and the efforts to preserve this critical program from further, damaging cuts. Please use the letter below to let your elected official know why this is so important.
Time is running out, so take action today!
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Dear XXX:
As a agent, I work hard to connect people with the care that they need. Working with the Medicare population, I see firsthand how complicated these decisions can be for some of the most vulnerable beneficiaries. Which is why I’m writing to ask for your support in the fight to preserve Medicare Advantage and protect the millions of Americans who depend on the program for its proven model of coordinated care.
CMS recently proposed changes to how Medicare Advantage is administered and funded. When combined with the cuts exacted on the program in recent years, this latest round of changes will only serve to further weaken the underlying fabric of this program, threatening its integrity and long-term sustainability. If finalized, those cuts will leave an already vulnerable population exposed to higher costs and reduced benefits.
But, there’s still time. CMS isn’t expected to finalize its decision for a few weeks. Until then, I urge you to reach out to the Agency and ask them to preserve Medicare Advantage and protect the 16 million seniors and persons with disabilities enrolled in the program.
Thank you for your continued support of this vitally important program, its enrollees, and your constituents. Please help protect Medicare Advantage and its beneficiaries by reaching out to CMS today.
Sincerely,
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This article applies to:
- California, Wisconsin, Virginia, Ohio, New York, Nevada, New Hampshire, Missouri, Maine, Kentucky, Indiana, Georgia, Connecticut, and Colorado
- Senior and Medicare
Questions? Contact Kathy@agent-link.net
