MEDICARE ADVANTAGE, INTERRUPTED: POLICY SOLUTIONS FOR MID-YEAR MEDICARE ADVANTAGE CONTRACT TERMINATIONS

This project investigates policy solutions to address mid-year contract terminations between providers and Medicare Advantage plans. Research shows providers often terminate contracts due to the administrative burden of prior authorization, high claims denial rates, and delayed payments. These terminations disproportionately affect Black and dual-eligible beneficiaries, leading to care disruptions, confusion, and increased costs for patients and the health system. We examine four policy options and weigh them against the following criteria: impact, equity, affordability, and political feasibility. We conclude by recommending Congress reintroduce an amended version of the <em>Improving Seniors&rsquo; Timely Access to Care Act</em>. The bill would streamline the prior authorization processes that cause the contract terminations as well as collect the relevant data necessary to further address the problem and its consequences.