This week, Democratic leaders in the House and Senate sent a joint letter to CMS voicing concerns and encouraging swift action to address MA plan enrollee abuse. Senate Finance Committee Chair Wyden (D-OR) joined by Ranking Member Pallone (D-NJ) of the House Energy and Commerce Committee and Congressman Neal (D-MA) highlighted concerns about ongoing MA problems finding, purchasing and using Medicare Advantage plans particularly for prior authorization requests.

The letter raises concerns about several ways MA plans are failing to deliver for seniors and Americans with disabilities, including the growing use of prior authorization to deny or delay care. The letter also highlights shortfalls among MA plans when it comes to core Medicare medical benefits or access to providers. Authors have requested a CMS briefing in reply with additional oversight reporting no later than December 15, 2024.

ASTRO supports this Congressional oversight and encourages Congress to pass the Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act of 2024 (S.4532/HR.8702). The bill requires Medicare Advantage plans to adopt common sense prior authorization practices like electronic transmission and shorter timelines for making coverage decisions. Tell Members of Congress to cosponsor and pass prior auth reform today!