Examines M+C participation issues from the perspective of eight national firms that account for more than 70 percent of M+C enrollment nationwide. Notes that M+C products generally do not represent a major line of business for most firms, with the exception of Humana and PacifiCare, where M+C...

In recent years, private plan options for Medicare beneficiaries have eroded substantially, with severely limited or no choice in most communities. The Medicare Modernization Act of 2003 (MMA) increased payment rates to plans. Although these increases have yet to cause the number of plan choices...

Reviews the early effects of the Benefits Improvement and Protection Act, which raised payment rates as of March 2001. Notes that only a few plans re-entered but those that did had important roles in their markets. As time goes on, effects are more likely to be seen in urban areas, since the...

Shows that surprisingly few beneficiaries actively examine their choices in health coverage, though choice is somewhat more relevant for subgroups of vulnerable beneficiaries.

Describes the different kinds of supplemental coverage available, including employer-based coverage, Medicaid, and the individual private Medigap and Medicare HMO markets. Also examines whom these plans attract, and what this means for beneficiary education and the design of Medicare reform.

Printed copies available by calling 888-777-2744 and requesting publication #580.

As the role of private plans in the future of Medicare becomes a focal point of change, policymakers need a better understanding of current trends in private plan choice. This publication profiles the trends in Medicare choices and private plan enrollment since 1999, showing declining enrollment...

Notes that 14 percent of Medicare beneficiaries had no source of supplemental coverage to pay costs not covered by Medicare. Medicare HMOs are an important source of coverage, especially for those who do not receive supplemental coverage under an employer group. Although HMOs in New Orleans seem...

Examines the Sterling Life Insurance Company's private fee-for-service plan, the first and only such plan offered since the Balanced Budget Act authorized this option. Notes that although enrollment remains low, it has grown rapidly this year, coinciding with increased payment rates and...