AARP to Insurance Industry: Build on Recent Advances to Help Consumers in Medicare

(AARP Media Relations) As many of the nation’s largest insurers meet today to discuss developments in Medicare, AARP Government Relations Health Director Nora Super called on the private insurance industry to act on key issues that would benefit consumers and would be positive for insurers, as well.

Speaking at the 2010 AHIP Conferences on Medicare and Medicaid, Super urged the insurance industry to join the Association’s efforts to remove barriers to coverage in the Medicare supplemental, or Medigap, insurance market.
 
“One of the clear messages from all Americans over the last year—regardless of which side of the health reform debate they were on—is that nobody should be denied access to quality, affordable health care due to their medical history or a preexisting condition,” said Super. “While the recent health reform law abolished these restrictions in most insurance markets, we urge your help to extend ‘guaranteed issue’ in the Medigap market, which would establish a level playing field for insurers and do the right thing by millions of older Americans.”

Super also encouraged the private insurance plans to take advantage of newly created quality incentives, which will offer bonus payments to Medicare Advantage plans that meet high-quality standards.

“These changes in Medicare Advantage payments offer a win-win opportunity for consumers and insurers alike,” said Super. “Consumers will benefit from better quality and competition among insurance providers, and insurers can earn a direct financial reward for doing so. And everybody wins when better care results in healthier people and lower costs for insurers.”
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