This analysis of trends in benefits and premiums since 1999 in the Medicare+Choice program reveals that plans have continued to raise premiums and beneficiaries’ cost-sharing, while at the same time limiting coverage of supplemental benefits, such as prescription drug coverage. Monthly...

Reports on the continuing exit of plans from the market, resulting in less geographic coverage, less expansive benefits, and increasing premiums. Voluntary disenrollment rates are rising too, with most disenrollees returning to traditional Medicare.

Medicare reform is at the top of the domestic policy agenda, and the role of private plans in that reform is a critical factor. Most of Medicare's experience with private plans has involved the Medicare+Choice (M+C) program. M+C plans, primarily HMOs, receive capitated payments and provide...

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...