To prohibit funds made available to the Department of Health and Human Services by previous Appropriations Acts from being used for any activity that makes Medicare Advantage the default under the Medicare program.
Summary
H.R. 6114 aims to prevent the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) from using appropriated funds to automatically enroll Medicare beneficiaries into Medicare Advantage (MA) plans if they do not actively choose a plan. The bill ensures that traditional Medicare remains the default option unless a beneficiary affirmatively elects to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan. This legislation seeks to protect beneficiary choice and prevent potential disruptions in healthcare coverage.
Expected Effects
The bill would maintain traditional Medicare as the default option for beneficiaries who do not actively choose a Medicare Advantage plan. It would prevent HHS from implementing policies that automatically enroll individuals into MA plans. This could lead to more informed decisions by beneficiaries regarding their healthcare coverage.
Potential Benefits
- Preserves beneficiary choice in selecting Medicare plans.
- Prevents automatic enrollment into Medicare Advantage without explicit consent.
- Maintains traditional Medicare as the default option, ensuring continuity of coverage for those who do not actively choose a plan.
- May encourage more informed decision-making regarding healthcare options.
- Could reduce potential disruptions in healthcare coverage due to unwanted plan changes.
Potential Disadvantages
- May limit the potential for increased enrollment in Medicare Advantage plans, which some argue offer additional benefits.
- Could increase administrative burden for HHS in managing Medicare enrollment.
- Might lead to some beneficiaries missing out on potential cost savings or additional services offered by MA plans if they do not actively explore their options.
- Could face opposition from groups that support expanding Medicare Advantage.
- May not address underlying issues related to the complexity of Medicare choices.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the general welfare clause of the Constitution (Preamble), as it aims to ensure that Medicare beneficiaries have informed choices regarding their healthcare. Congress has the power to legislate on matters related to healthcare under its enumerated powers. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).