Upcoming Medicare Changes in 2023: Lower Insulin Costs and Free Shingles Vaccinations Among Key Policy Revisions

• Lower costs for insulin: One of the biggest changes that beneficiaries can expect to see in 2023 is a significant reduction in the cost of insulin. Under current law, the maximum amount that beneficiaries can be charged for a 30-day supply of insulin is $35. This represents a significant savings for many Medicare beneficiaries, as the average cost of a 30-day supply of insulin was around $450 in 2019. This change is expected to help make it easier for people with diabetes to afford the life-saving medication they need.
• Free shingles vaccinations: Another change that Medicare beneficiaries can expect to see in 2023 is the availability of free shingles vaccinations. Shingles is a viral infection that causes a painful rash and can lead to serious complications, including chronic pain and blindness. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that adults over the age of 60 get a shingles vaccination, and starting in 2023, Medicare will cover the cost of the vaccine at no additional cost to beneficiaries.
• More telehealth services: The COVID-19 pandemic has shown the importance of telehealth services in providing healthcare to those who may not be able to visit a doctor in person. In response to this, Medicare is expanding the list of telehealth services that it covers in 2023. This includes virtual check-ins, remote evaluation of pre-recorded video and images, and more. By expanding access to telehealth services, Medicare hopes to make it easier for beneficiaries to get the healthcare they need, regardless of where they live.
• Increased funding for community health centers: Community health centers play a critical role in providing primary care services to underserved populations, including many Medicare beneficiaries. In 2023, Medicare will be increasing funding for these centers in order to improve access to primary care and other essential health services. This will help to ensure that vulnerable populations are able to get the healthcare they need, regardless of their ability to pay.
• Increased focus on social determinants of health: The social determinants of health, such as poverty, education, and access to healthy food, play a critical role in determining an individual's overall health outcomes. In 2023, Medicare will be placing a greater emphasis on addressing these factors in order to improve health outcomes for beneficiaries. This may include providing additional resources to help reduce poverty, increase access to education and job training, and improve access to healthy food.

While these changes represent some of the most significant policy revisions that beneficiaries can expect to see in 2023, they are by no means the only ones. Beneficiaries are encouraged to stay informed about the latest changes to Medicare and to speak with a Medicare representative if they have any questions.

Overall, the above changes aim to enhance the healthcare benefits for Medicare beneficiaries by making the treatments more affordable and accessible, also focusing on preventative care, telehealth services and and social determinants of health, it's aim to enhance the quality of life for seniors and make healthcare more affordable and accessible. The announcement of these policy changes should be good news for Medicare beneficiaries and will make a positive impact on millions of people's lives.

• Expansion of coverage for durable medical equipment (DME): Medicare beneficiaries who require DME, such as oxygen tanks, wheelchairs, and hospital beds, will see an expansion in coverage in 2023. Medicare will begin covering additional types of DME, such as sleep apnea devices and continuous glucose monitors, making it easier for beneficiaries to access the equipment they need to manage their chronic conditions. This change will greatly benefit those suffering from chronic respiratory or diabetes, making it less burdensome to access the equipment they need to live better.
• Increased focus on mental health: Medicare will be placing a greater emphasis on addressing mental health in 2023. This may include an expansion of coverage for mental health services, such as counseling and therapy, and the use of telehealth services to make these services more accessible. Mental health is often overlooked and this will be a welcomed change, which will benefit those dealing with mental health issues, especially in light of the ongoing pandemic, which has led to increased stress, anxiety, and depression among seniors.
• Prescription drug price negotiation: One of the main issues with the current healthcare system is the high cost of prescription drugs. In 2023, Medicare will implement new rules for negotiating the price of prescription drugs, with the goal of bringing prices down for beneficiaries. This is a much-needed change as many Medicare beneficiaries struggle to afford their medications, and this change will help to make these vital drugs more affordable for seniors.
• More benefits for rural areas: Rural Americans often face barriers when it comes to accessing healthcare, including a shortage of doctors and facilities. In 2023, Medicare will be focusing on addressing these challenges by increasing funding for rural health clinics and expanding the use of telehealth services in rural areas. This will help to ensure that rural residents have access to the same quality of care as those in urban areas, which will greatly benefit seniors living in rural communities.
• Medicare Advantage (MA) reforms: In 2023, Medicare Advantage plans will see a number of changes that will expand the options available to beneficiaries and give them more control over their healthcare. Beneficiaries will have more flexibility in choosing a plan that best fits their needs, and will be able to switch plans at any time during the year, not just during the annual enrollment period. Also, there will be more comprehensive coverage options, like vision and hearing coverage, which were not available before.

As 2023 approaches, these policy changes will bring positive benefits to millions of Americans who rely on Medicare for their healthcare needs. From lower insulin costs and free shingles vaccinations, to increased focus on mental health and telehealth services, these changes will help to make healthcare more affordable and accessible. Beneficiaries should stay informed about these changes and speak with a Medicare representative if they have any questions. With these changes, Medicare aims to provide seniors with better access to quality care and more control over their healthcare options, which is especially important for their overall health and well-being.