A new report from AHIP warns that Medicare costs could increase while benefits drop should dental benefits be added to seniors' coverage.
Should Congress implement the change without adjusting the Medicare Advantage benchmark, Medicare Advantage plans could see 48-73 percent fewer rebate dollars, according to the report. These funds are used to provide benefits including transportation, meals and other auxiliary perks.
The loss translates to an annual $970 to $1,056 in lost benefits for seniors, the report estimates.
Shifting finances related to adding dental benefits could directly affect the over 57 percent of Medicare Advantage plan members who have $0 premiums. Should it go into effect without adjusting the Medicare Advantage benchmark, these $0 premium plans would be more difficult to maintain.
The full report can be accessed here.