Abel’s Coding Advice

In the last column of Abel’s Coding Advice, we talked about the following:

Medicare Part C Advantage Plans

With an additional 3,148 Medicare Part C Advantage plans in 2020, the majority of which offer other benefits including hearing aids, it is strongly encouraged that payer benefits be verified for coverage as well as knowing if there is a third-party administrator for each, so as to avoid unnecessary denials and sticker shock with payments.

But Let’s Look a Little Deeper…

With the increase in the number of these plans and, consequently, the number of patients, we want you to be aware of the rise of these plans and the current statistics in order for you to position your practice for the future.

Did You Know….

• …that 10,000 people turn 65 each day?
• …that in 2020, the average Medicare beneficiary has access to 28 Medicare Advantage plans?
• …that in 2020, 80% of beneficiaries will have access to an MA plan that provides dental, fitness, vision, and hearing benefits that are not covered by traditional Medicare Part B?
• …that Medicare Advantage plans are voluntary, and patients sign up during open enrollment once a year?
• …that California and Florida have had the greatest growth in Medicare Advantage plans, but that Ohio has the greatest number of plans available?
• …that the Congressional Budget Office projects 41% of Medicare beneficiaries will be enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan by 2027?

Since Medicare Advantage plans are regional, it is suggested that you continue to monitor those plans prevalent in your area, keeping in mind that those plans can change during the open enrollment season.