Your Guide to Understanding MACRA

GPM Life writes, “MACRA stands for the Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act of 2015. The rule states that as of Jan. 1, 2020, newly-eligible Medicare beneficiaries won’t be able to purchase Medicare supplement plans that cover the Part B deductible. This includes Medicare supplement Plans C, F, High-Deductible F (and Minnesota and Wisconsin Part B deductible coverage). [...] Plus a new Medicare supplement Plan High-Deductible G will be available effective Jan. 1 where offered.”

How Does This Affect You?

• If you are eligible for Medicare through 12/31/19- Your Medicare options continue to be the same. You can purchase any plan that covers the Part B deductible, or,  keep your existing plan. This includes Supplemental Plans A, B, C, D, F, High-Deductible Plan F, G, and N.

• If you are eligible for Medicare starting 1/1/2020-  Since you are considered “newly eligible” you cannot purchase a plan that covers the Part B deductible. Your new plan choices now include cost-sharing. In addition, MACRA has Plans D & G be the guaranteed types of plans for the newest Medicare eligible beneficiaries. Other possible Supplemental Plans include A, B, and N.

In addition to the change in plan offerings, the payment system for doctors who treat Medicare patients will change to a pay-for-performance program to be focused on quality, value and accountability.  MACRA was also responsible for the new Medicare cards being issued to all beneficiaries without the use of Social Security numbers.  This will help prevent stolen identities.

Contact Baygroup Insurance or call us at 410-557-7907 for more information on MACRA.

Source

Your Guide to MACRA for Your Medicare Supplement Clients. GPM Life. 25 May 2019.