senate

Medicare Advantage (MA) growth continues as we enter 2025 enrollment season I decided to continue my Medicare Advantage (MA) monthly enrollment blogs because of continuing month-over-month increases. The growth is tied to remaining strong benefit packages for 2024. Increases in MA enrollment still occur outside of the enrollment season given the aging of America and the ability of some populations, such as dual eligibles, to continue to make changes throughout the year. We are now in the enrollment season for 2025 and I wonder if we will see the normally robust month-over-month growth. So far, it seems to be there. New enrollees see huge value in enrolling in MA over the traditional fee-for-service (FFS) program. This value difference likely will continue to drive some growth in 2025 even with reductions in benefits, increased premiums and cost-sharing, and less choice in some geographies. The reductions are being caused by the return of

The Senate should resist being pressured and fulfill its constitutional duties. The Republic will survive a speedy but thorough vetting process for nominees. While this blog’s topic would impact healthcare, I admit I am straying a bit from my normal musings here on the website. I usually try to keep politics largely out of my blogging. I describe myself as a moderate Republican, who holds healthcare views that span both of today’s parties. I tend to favor reasonably expansive healthcare coverage with government support, lining me up with Democrats. I think it is a wise and compassionate position. Affordable universal access will save healthcare dollars and is key to healthcare reform, which also includes price reform and a pivot to care management. At the same time, I remain a fiscal conservative who thinks that our national debt and deficits will lead to a lower standard of living and less opportunity