In a statement published in the federal register, AHIP claimed that CMS’ plan to extend open enrollment for ACA marketplace exchanges could “disincentivize” consumers from enrolling in a health plan with full-year benefits. CMS’ proposed payment parameters for 2022 were the subject of the comment. One of CMS’s recommendations was to move the open enrollment deadline from December 15 to January 15.
- Statement: Matt Eyles, president and CEO of America’s Health Insurance Plans (AHIP), issued a statement following the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ (CMS’) release of 2021 Medicare Advantage proposed rate notice, and a separate proposed rule for 2021 and 2022.
- Stability: AHIP wants CMS to keep its current Dec. 15 deadline, arguing that extending it “could be harmful to consumers’ health and financial stability. Further, consumers need consistency and predictability in deadlines.” “The current proposal would push enrollee coverage start date to February 1, resulting in a consumer having just 11-months of coverage,” ACHP said
- Flexibility: “We are encouraged by proposals for additional flexibility that would allow health insurance providers to tailor benefits, design high-quality provider networks and continue to innovate. However, we are concerned that some proposals could undermine the critical funding that protects millions of Americans’ access to the benefits and care they need, including individuals with kidney disease who are newly eligible to enroll in Medicare Advantage”, said Eyles.
- Medicare coverage: This enrollment window can be used by people who are uninsured or under-insured, as well as those who already have marketplace coverage and would prefer a different plan. It’s available in every state that uses HealthCare.gov, which includes 36 states as of 2021. It’s also a good opportunity for people to take advantage of the enhanced premium subsidies created by the American Rescue Plan.
- Prior announcements: President Biden announced that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is extending access to the Special Enrollment Period (SEP) until August 15 – giving consumers additional time to take advantage of new savings through the American Rescue Plan. This action provides new and current enrollees an additional three months to enroll or re-evaluate their coverage needs with increased tax credits available to reduce premiums.