Statement attributable to:
Gerald E. Harmon, M.D.
President, American Medical Association
CHICAGO — The American Medical Association (AMA) welcomes the Biden Administration’s rule issued today that strengthens Medicare Advantage (MA) network adequacy. Under the rule, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) will approve an application for a new or expanded MA contract only after applicants demonstrate a sufficient network of contracted physicians to care for enrollees.
In March, the AMA wrote (PDF) in support of the proposal, saying that these strengthened plans would enable patients to access needed services.
“Sunlight is said to be the best disinfectant, and that’s what this rule is all about. It will bring sunlight into the decision-making process, so patients know the MA plan they enroll in has an adequate network. Obviously, this information is needed at the beginning of the process. Discovering that you do not have access to necessary care in a time of illness adds a challenging layer to an already trying time. We very much welcome this patient-friendly move by CMS,” said AMA President Gerald E. Harmon, M.D.
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The American Medical Association is the physicians’ powerful ally in patient care. As the only medical association that convenes 190+ state and specialty medical societies and other critical stakeholders, the AMA represents physicians with a unified voice to all key players in health care. The AMA leverages its strength by removing the obstacles that interfere with patient care, leading the charge to prevent chronic disease and confront public health crises and, driving the future of medicine to tackle the biggest challenges in health care.
