JD Power Finds Decline in MA Satisfaction
A new study by JD Power finds that satisfaction with Medicare Advantage (MA) plans has declined for a second year. Overall satisfaction was 611 on a 1,000-point scale, down 12 points from the 2025 report and 41 points from 2024.
The study identified declines across the member experience, with the steepest declines over two years in how much the plan is saving time and money (down 51 points); level of trust (down 49 points); and coverage options to meet individuals’ needs (down by 47 points).
The decline is obviously related to major cutbacks in access and benefits as the industry grapples with realignment and margin recovery.
In other news, Modern Healthcare covers the Q2 financial recovery by plans and outlook for continued improvement. I covered this topic in a blog here: https://www.healthcarelabyrinth.com/are-insurers-turning-the-financial-corner-yes-but-there-is-more-work-to-be-done/ .
Additional article: https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/payers/jd-power-member-satisfaction-medicare-advantage-plans-continues-slide
#medicareadvantage #margins
https://www.modernhealthcare.com/insurance/mh-unitedhealth-humana-aetna-medicare-advantage-2027
PA Rule Clarified
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) clarified various aspects of a 2024 final rule regarding prior authorization and interoperability. The rule requires the posting of prior authorization requirements and outcomes and sets a new seven-day deadline for standard requests (it keeps a 72-hour expedited timeframe for medical requests). The changes came after a review of how Medicare Advantage (MA) plans were implementing the changes.
The updated guidance bars the use of password-protected portals or similar avenues that cannot be reached through ordinary navigation from the payer’s public-facing website. It also says plans must publicly identify all medical items and services requiring prior authorization and strengthens public disclosure of metrics.
#healthplans #priorauthorization
— Marc S. Ryan
