Medicare undergoes regular updates to enhance benefits and adjust costs. Here are some key changes to Medicare in 2024:
Medicare Part A
1. Inpatient Hospital Deductible: The deductible for Medicare Part A will increase to $1,632, up from $1,600 in 2023. This covers the first 60 days of inpatient hospital care.
2. Daily Copayments: For days 61-90 of hospitalization, the daily copayment rises to $408 (from $400 in 2023). Lifetime reserve days will cost $816 per day (up from $800)
3. Skilled Nursing Facility: The daily copayment for days 21-100 of extended care in a skilled nursing facility increases to $204 (up from $200).
Medicare Part B
1. Premiums: Standard premiums for Part B will slightly increase based on income. For most beneficiaries, the premium will be around $174.70. Higher-income beneficiaries will see their premiums adjusted upwards according to their income levels.
2. Deductibles: The annual deductible for Part B will increase to $240, up from $226 in 2023.
Medicare Part D
1. Catastrophic Coverage: Beneficiaries will no longer have any out-of-pocket costs for Part D drugs once they reach the catastrophic coverage phase. This eliminates the previous 5% coinsurance requirement.
2. Insulin Cap: The cost for insulin will be capped at $35 per month for all Part D plans.
3. Extra Help Program: The Extra Help program, which assists with Part D costs, will expand its eligibility, providing more comprehensive coverage for low-income beneficiaries.
4. Vaccines: More vaccines will be available at no cost under Part D plans.
Medicare Advantage (MA)
1. Behavioral Health Services: MA plans are strengthening network adequacy requirements for behavioral health services, including setting specific standards for appointment wait times and expanding the types of providers available.
2. Health Equity and Marketing Rules: CMS is implementing new rules to advance health equity and protect beneficiaries from misleading marketing practices. This includes more stringent requirements for how plans are marketed and ensuring that beneficiaries receive accurate information.
3. Star Ratings: Enhancements to the Star Ratings program will incentivize MA plans to improve care quality, especially for enrollees with social risk factors.
These changes aim to make Medicare more affordable and equitable, enhancing access to necessary medical services while ensuring beneficiaries are well-informed and protected from misleading practices. For more detailed information, visit the official Medicare website or consult specific resources like those from the Kaiser Family Foundation and CMS.