Bill to Curb Medicare Advantage Lapses Wins House Panel’s OK

Lawmakers on Capitol Hill moved a step closer on Wednesday to requiring better transparency and more timely coverage decisions by Medicare managed care plans.

In a markup hearing, the The House Ways and Means Committee adopted a chair’s amendment that tweaks the language of H.R. 8487, the Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act. The bill now moves to the House floor for a full vote.

Private Medicare Advantage plans try to reduce wasteful spending for unnecessary care by requiring plan approval, or “prior authorization,” before beneficiaries can receive certain health services.

However, lawmakers, providers, patient advocates, and a government ...