Here are seven recent headlines involving CMS Becker's has reported since Sept. 1.
Expect Medicare Advantage star ratings to decline next year, McKinsey says
Star ratings for many Medicare Advantage plans are likely to decline next year because of the end of pandemic-era policies and changes in CMS' methodology, according to a Sept. 15 report from McKinsey. Analysts estimated plans could see $800 million in financial impacts from the rating changes.
CMS: COVID-19 vaccines, including updated boosters, still free
COVID-19 vaccines, including updated boosters tailored to the omicron variant, will be provided at no cost, regardless of insurance status, the agency said Sept. 13.
Postpartum Medicaid coverage to expand in West Virginia, Indiana
CMS approved expanding Medicaid coverage to 12 months postpartum in West Virginia and Indiana on Sept. 12. They joined 21 other states and Washington, D.C., in extending this coverage.
CMS seeks public feedback on healthcare access, equity
The agency is seeking feedback from stakeholders on challenges related to accessing healthcare and advancing health equity, CMS said Sept. 6. Comments can be submitted online and must be received by Nov. 4.
CMS selects Maximus for $6.6B insurance customer service contract
The agency chose IT management company Maximus Federal Services for a $6.6 billion contract to operate Medicare and ACA customer services centers, according to a Sept. 1 news release.
CMS clamps down on celebrity Medicare Advantage sales pitches
The agency is tightening regulations on Medicare Advantage advertising, the Wall Street Journal reported Aug. 31. Consumer complaints about ads for Medicare Advantage plans surged by 165 percent last year compared to 2020.
Biden administration proposes rule to overhaul Medicaid, CHIP enrollment process
The Biden-Harris administration proposed a new CMS rule to overhaul and streamline the enrollment process for Medicaid, CHIP and Basic Health Programs. If approved, the rule would standardize eligibility and enrollment processes nationwide.