CMS Releases Star Ratings For 2016 Medicare Advantage Plans

Almost three out of four beneficiaries are enrolled in medical and drug coverage plans that received at least a four-star quality rating, according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. The rankings did show a drop for some companies, especially in regard to prescription drug benefits.

Modern Healthcare: Medicare Advantage Star Ratings Reveal Mix Of High, Low Performers

More Medicare Advantage plans nabbed top quality marks for their 2016 plans than last year, a potential sign that private insurers are trying to meet the federal government's standards for high-quality products and coordinated healthcare for seniors. But the CMS' star ratings, released Thursday, also showed that private Medicare plans are still failing on many levels, particularly when it comes to prescription drug benefits. (Herman, 10/8)

Meanwhile, 2016 Medicare Part D premiums will rise for many -

Reuters: Unwelcome News About Medicare's Rising Drug Costs

Seniors have received some unpleasant news in their mailboxes in recent weeks: premiums for many Medicare prescription drug insurance plans will rise at double-digit rates next year. Premiums for the ten most popular Medicare Part D prescription drug plans (PDPs) will rise an average of 8 percent next year - the fastest clip in five years, according to Avalere Health, a consulting and research firm. And five of the top plans will boost their average premiums anywhere from 16 percent to 26 percent. (Miller, 10/8)

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