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Study: Medicare Advantage Lacks Health Gains
26 Aug
Summary
- Medicare Advantage plans don't improve health for seniors with Type 2 diabetes.
- A study found no better health outcomes for MA enrollees than traditional Medicare.
- Supplemental benefits may not reach beneficiaries as intended, researchers suggest.
A recent study in JAMA Internal Medicine is questioning the health benefits of Medicare Advantage plans for seniors with Type 2 diabetes. Despite enrolling a majority of Medicare beneficiaries and offering extras like dental care and grocery allowances, the plans did not show improved health outcomes compared to traditional Medicare.
The research tracked approximately 35,000 adults over 3.5 years, examining biomarkers such as hemoglobin A1C, LDL cholesterol, and blood pressure. Findings revealed that 45% of Medicare Advantage participants saw no measurable improvements in these indicators.
Experts suggest that while these supplemental benefits are advertised, they may not be effectively reaching beneficiaries or translating into better chronic disease management. Additional benefits might also come with restrictions like prior authorization requirements and limited provider networks.
This study adds to ongoing debates about the value of Medicare Advantage and its increased federal spending, which is about 14% higher per enrollee than traditional Medicare. The findings may prompt beneficiaries to consider factors beyond extra perks when choosing a plan.
