Medicare Advantage program frees up copays, telehealth for eligible encounters

Why This Topic Matters

Changes in Medicare Advantage plan design can affect patient access patterns, preventive service volume, care coordination workflows, and payer-provider contracting. Understanding the scope of the VBID model helps organizations anticipate which types of encounters and services may become more common under participating plans.

Article Sections

1. National expansion of the VBID model

   Summarizes the CMS announcement and the broader move from limited geographic availability to a nationwide model. Covers the application timeline and the general purpose of the program.

2. Examples of plan design flexibility

   Describes broad examples of how participating plans have experimented with benefit design and member incentives. Focuses on the types of service categories and patient groups referenced in the article.

3. Assessing the 2020 outlook

   Reviews the expected 2020 changes, including the model’s broader availability and the continued emphasis on value-based care. Discusses how eligibility and targeting options are expected to evolve at a high level.

4. Key takeaways for providers

   Outlines the operational implications for practices, including preventive care focus, care-management readiness, and telehealth opportunities. Highlights the provider perspective on working with participating plans.