Organized by CAPG, the largest national association of capitated, accountable physician groups, over 300 medical groups and independent practice associations signed a letter to CMS calling for the agency to strengthen the Medicare Advantage program.
"Medicare Advantage serves as an essential source of coverage for seniors, including a high proportion of low-income beneficiaries and minority populations," the letter states. Proposed cuts to the program would undermine the goals of building a high-value delivery system.
More than 16 million seniors are enrolled in Medicare Advantage, the part of Medicare offered by private health plans. In recent years, Medicare Advantage enrollment has surged due to the program's superior coordinated care offerings.
Despite its success, CMS has once again proposed cuts to the program. Physician groups across the country have called on CMS to adopt a final payment policy that does not include cuts. Final rates are expected to be announced April 6. View the letter here.