Revisions to the Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug Programs

This interim final rule with comment period (IFC) revises the regulations governing the Medicare Advantage (MA) program (Part C), and prescription drug benefit program (Part D). This IFC sets forth new requirements governing the marketing of Part C and Part D plans which by statute must be in place at a date specified by the Secretary, but no later than November 15, 2008. The new marketing requirements, which set forth new limits on the compensation that can be paid to agents or brokers with respect to Part C and Part D plans, are based on authority under provisions in the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act (MIPPA) that became law on July 15, 2008. DATES: Effective date: These regulations are effective on November 10, 2008. Comment date: To be assured consideration, comments must be received at one of the addresses provided below, no later than 5 p.m. on December 15, 2008.