Week in Washington is brought to you by Michael Cohen, PhD. Tune in each week to read the latest on healthcare policy and get a glimpse of what’s on the horizon.
Week in Washington
05/18/2023
Early MLR Results
KFF released their early estimates of MLR rebates and fully-insured market experience . Overall, rebates estimated at $1.1 billion – with individual market remaining essentially flat at $500 million. Simple loss ratios improved for individual market but remain elevated, so premium increases could be higher in 2024.
Congress Watch
- House Republicans and the White House continue to negotiate around the debt ceiling. Much of the chatter is currently centering around if work requirements will be applied to Medicaid beneficiaries.
- The Senate HELP committee passed a legislative package that would increase generic drug competition and increase transparency on PBMs. There is no timeline for a vote on the bill before the full Senate.
Court Watch
- A federal appeals court froze a lower court ruling that struck down many of the ACA preventative services requirements. This means that preventative service requirements are required while the case winds it way through the court system.
- The 5th Circuit of Appeals heard the abortion pill case. The federal judges appear to be poised to restrict the drug. The ruling is expected to be appealed by the Supreme Court.
Medicaid Redetermination
Initial Medicaid redetermination numbers continue to trickle in. Initial numbers out of Florida show significant coverage loss (250k lost coverage), primarily due to paperwork (e.g., red-tape) reasons.
Health Savings Account/High-Deductible Health Plan Info Released
The IRS released the 2024 limits for various HSA/HDHP limits. The information can be found here
Previous editions:
05/11/2023: Week in Washington
05/04/2023: Week in Washington
04/27/2023: Week in Washington
04/20/2023: Week in Washington
04/13/2023: Week in Washington
03/23/2023: Week in Washington
03/16/2023: Week in Washington
03/09/2023: Week in Washington