As we approach the end of another year, it is natural for retirees and those eligible for Medicare to examine their Medicare Advantage options. As a Medicare beneficiary, you are always looking for updates and innovations that can provide you quality coverage at a reasonable cost. Fortunately, Medicare Advantage has seen several updates and enhancements, which are likely to make Medicare coverage more robust and more comfortable to access. In this article, we’ll examine some of the updates and enhancements that are coming to Medicare Advantage in 2024. By knowing what is on the horizon for Medicare Advantage plans 2024 , you’ll be better equipped to make sound decisions about your healthcare coverage.
Telehealth services: Telehealth services are essential in a world where COVID-19 has uncovered the need for virtual healthcare. Telehealth services enable healthcare providers to see patients remotely, which can save both parties time and effort. In 2024, Medicare Advantage beneficiaries will have access to a more comprehensive range of telehealth services. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has confirmed an expansion of the telehealth services covered under Medicare Advantage plans. This expansion will allow beneficiaries to access a more diverse range of telehealth services from the comfort of their homes.
Social determinants of health (SDOH): Social determinants of health like housing, nutrition, and transportation have a significant impact on an individual’s health. Medicare Advantage plans are now working with healthcare providers to create programs that address these social determinants of health for their beneficiaries. Plans are investing in support for transportation services to take beneficiaries to appointments, and others are teaming up with nutrition counselors. In 2024, we’re expecting to see more Medicare Advantage plans work with beneficiaries to identify social determinants of health that could threaten their well-being.
Dental benefits: Traditional Medicare does not cover most dental services, and those who require dental care are often searching for affordable options. Fortunately, some Medicare Advantage plans now offer dental benefits. In 2024, more Medicare Advantage plans are expected to offer dental benefits by including cleanings, check-ups, and X-rays to their coverage. These plans could also offer more extensive dental coverage, which could include fillings, procedures, and dentures.
Medicare Advantage coverage expansion: Medicare Advantage beneficiaries will enjoy even more coverage in 2024, as CMS has increased its funding to these plans. CMS has created a new category for supplemental benefits, including dental, vision, and hearing, allowing Medicare Advantage plans more flexibility regarding their benefits packages. Additionally, they’ve allowed Medicare Advantage plans to offer telehealth services within their supplemental benefits.
Improved patient care delivery: In 2024, there will be a heightened focus on delivering quality healthcare to beneficiaries. Healthcare providers will be better equipped to coordinate with beneficiaries who have chronic conditions. CMS has introduced a new model known as “Value-Based Insurance Design” (VBID), which incentivizes healthcare providers for high-quality healthcare delivery.
Conclusion:
Medicare Advantage has been the preferred choice for many Medicare beneficiaries due to the coverage it provides, the flexibility it offers, and the numerous benefits it includes. The updates and enhancements coming to Medicare Advantage in 2024 will further expand the coverage and flexibility of these plans. The changes we anticipate in 2024 will increase access to care, improve care delivery, and overall create a better healthcare experience for beneficiaries. Understanding these changes and staying attuned to updates from your plan can help you take full advantage of these enhancements and improve your healthcare coverage. By being educated about what’s new in Medicare Advantage for 2024, you can make the best healthcare decisions for you and your family.
