medicare Archives - Page 2 of 14 - DR News

Security: Medicare and Social Security Facing Financial Doomsday Clock

Washington, D.C., the United States – The financial stability of Medicare and Social Security is facing a looming crisis, with experts warning of a ticking time bomb that could impact millions of Americans. As the population ages and healthcare costs continue to rise, the strain on these vital programs is becoming increasingly apparent. Recent reports have highlighted the urgent need for action to address the growing fiscal challenges facing Medicare and Social Security. The “Financial …

Medicare Patients Beware: New Cards and Numbers Issued to Prevent Fraud

Lancaster, Pennsylvania – Medicare beneficiaries in Lancaster have been receiving unexpected new cards in the mail, sparking concerns about potential scams. Viewers have been reaching out to the 8 On Your Side team with questions regarding these unsolicited replacements and whether they are legitimate. One viewer shared their experience of receiving a notification from Medicare stating that a new Medicare number and card were being issued due to an issue with their current number. After …

Medicare Advantage Overpayments Exposed in Shocking New Data and Political Critique

WASHINGTON D.C. – Medicare Advantage has become a hot-button issue in the healthcare sector, and recent data on overpayments has only fueled the controversy. During a routine policy meeting, an unusual political remark highlighted the contentious nature of the program. The new data revealed significant overpayments within the Medicare Advantage program, raising concerns about its financial sustainability and effectiveness. This revelation has put a spotlight on the need for more oversight and regulation within the …

Medicare Expands Coverage for Weight Loss Drugs: What’s the Real Cost?

Last month, the federal Medicare program made a significant announcement regarding the coverage of anti-obesity drugs such as Wegovy and Ozempic for patients at risk of heart attacks or strokes, marking a pivotal moment in the realm of medication. This decision is expected to spark debates about the long-term efficacy of these drugs and whether their high costs justify their benefits. Heart disease stands as the leading cause of death in the United States, claiming …

Mental-health-care Shortage in Medicaid and Medicare Exacerbates National Crisis

Washington, D.C. – As rates of suicide and opioid deaths continue to rise in the United States, especially among teenagers and young adults, the country is faced with an unprecedented mental health crisis. Despite the declaration of a national emergency in children’s mental health, access to mental health care remains limited for many Americans, including vulnerable populations, according to a recent government report. The Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Inspector General revealed …

Insurance Stocks Take a Hit as Medicare Increases Rates by 3.7%

Orlando, FL – The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) recently approved a 3.7% payment rate increase for Medicare Advantage plans for the 2025 calendar year. This decision had a significant impact on leading health insurance managed care stocks, causing a sharp decline in stock prices for companies like Humana, CVS Health, and UnitedHealth Group. Investors were surprised by the modest 3.7% rate increase, as many had anticipated a larger hike to help offset …

Insurance Stocks Plunge as US Regulators Hold Firm on Medicare Payments

New York, NY – Health insurance stocks experienced a significant drop in late trading on Monday following the unexpected decision by US regulators to keep payments for private Medicare plans steady for 2025. This move by President Joe Biden’s administration marks a departure from recent practices, catching Wall Street off guard. According to research from JPMorgan Securities analysts, final rates have typically improved from regulators’ initial proposals over the past decade, making this decision a …

Medicare Coverage Guidelines for Wheelchairs and Scooters Explained

Miami, Florida – If you’re 65 or older and in need of a wheelchair or electric scooter, navigating Medicare coverage may not be as straightforward as you think. When it comes to Medicare reimbursement for mobility devices like manual wheelchairs, power wheelchairs, or electric scooters, meeting all the requirements is crucial. Diane Omdahl, author of “Medicare for You” and co-founder of the Medicare advisory firm, 65 Incorporated, emphasized the complexities of the process. Understanding the …

Long COVID Treatment Coverage Discrepancies Based on Medicare Plans

Cleveland, Ohio – A study conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau revealed that nearly 1 in 4 adults aged 65 and above who have contracted COVID-19 have experienced lingering symptoms, a condition known as long COVID. This condition encompasses a range of health issues that persist for at least four weeks post-infection, such as fatigue, shortness of breath, and cognitive difficulties, among others according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Katy Votava, a …

Medicare Admission Rules: The Impact of the Two-Midnight Standard on Inpatient Care and Cost

Chicago, Illinois – When a Medicare beneficiary is admitted for inpatient care, clinicians often consider the two-midnight rule set forth by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, a standard that impacts reimbursement decisions. The two-midnight rule comes into play when a clinician determines that a Medicare beneficiary will likely require hospital care for more than two midnights, making inpatient care necessary over cheaper outpatient options, explained Regan Tankersley, an attorney at the law firm …