Should Congress implement the change without adjusting the Medicare Advantage benchmark, Medicare Advantage plans could see 48-73 percent fewer rebate dollars, according to the report. These funds are used to provide benefits including transportation, meals and other auxiliary perks.
The loss translates to an annual $970 to $1,056 in lost benefits for seniors, the report estimates.
Shifting finances related to adding dental benefits could directly affect the over 57 percent of Medicare Advantage plan members who have $0 premiums. Should it go into effect without adjusting the Medicare Advantage benchmark, these $0 premium plans would be more difficult to maintain.
The full report can be accessed here.
