Submit Comments Now on Proposed Changes to Medicare C and D

The National Senior Citizens Law Center (NSCLC) Health Network Alert released an alert for advocates:

CMS recently shared proposed regulations for the Medicare prescription drug program (Part D) and the Medicare managed care program (Part C) for public comment. Several of the proposals represent important steps in improving the program and protecting beneficiaries.  They include proposals ensuring meaningful differences between Part D plans; increasing drug pricing transparency, fairness and accuracy; enhancing plan oversight; improving notices; and strengthening MA plan requirements for Part D denials.  One provision, which would scale back the protected drug classes is of serious concern.  A few other proposals are a mixed bag needing some modification.

The Issue:  Unfortunately, the health plan industry group, unhappy with the prospect of increased oversight and stricter regulation, is spearheading a major campaign to scuttle the entire regulatory package, claiming that increased regulation will threaten the Part D program.  It is very important for advocates to push back by supporting beneficiary-friendly provisions. 

The alert provides a step by step explanation on how to submit comments, including a template. The deadline for comments is Friday, March 7, 2014 at 5:00 p.m.