Beginning in 2010, some changes to Medicare coverage options will occur as a result of the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2008 (MIPPA).

What is the impact of MIPPA?
MIPPA affects many parts of the Medicare program. Here's how it will affect Medicare Advantage plans:

• Tighter regulations around sales and marketing practices
• After 2010, group Medicare Advantage PFFS plans will be required to have a contracted provider network. “Deeming” will go away.
• Individual PFFS plans may still be available in select markets.

In addition, MIPPA includes new regulations to modernize Medicare supplement plans that will become effective June 1, 2010.  These changes include:

• Standardized plans E,H, I, J and High Deductible J will be eliminated 
• Two new standard plans are being created:  Plan M and Plan N to provide new options for higher cost sharing with a lower premium
• The preventive care and at-home recovery benefits are being eliminated from standard plan designs
• Hospice is being added as a core benefit to all standard plan designs

How does this affect employers?

While group Medicare Advantage PFFS plans will no longer be offered after 2010, UnitedHealthcare has developed viable alternatives for our clients who need national coverage solutions and want to continue providing cost effective Medicare insurance solutions.

How is UnitedHealthcare responding?

We're committed to the future of our employer group Medicare Advantage plans. We plan to expand our networks and to work closely with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to develop new programs to meet our clients’ needs.

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