The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services is making it easier for Medicare Advantage insurers to swoop in and rescue struggling rivals.
The agency last week notified insurance companies that it may allow them to expand where they sell policies midyear if they acquire competitors. Previously, CMS only considered expansion requests during the annual bid cycle in June.
The new guidance opens the door to faster and easier dealmaking, said John Selby, an independent health insurance consultant. It is yet another indication federal authorities are trying to stabilize the volatile Medicare Advantage market in 2027 and beyond, he said. Annual enrollment runs from Oct. 15-Dec. 7.