For Medicare beneficiaries wondering whether their Part B premiums could be reduced, the waiting continues. – The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services continues to evaluate the Part B premium, given changes that have occurred since the monthly amount was set last year. – About half the rise in the premium was attributed to the potential cost of broadly covering Alzheimer’s drug Aduhelm. – If a premium reduction happens, there’s a chance it could be applied to 2023 instead of 2022. More than three months after Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra ordered a reassessment of this year’s $170.10 standard monthly premium — a bigger-than-expected jump from $148.50 in 2021 — it remains uncertain when a determination will come and whether it would affect what beneficiaries pay this year. If a premium reduction occurs, there’s also the chance it could be applied for 2023 instead of 2022. There have been year-to-year drops in the Part B premium in the past for various reasons, including legislative changes to how the premium is calculated. Kevin Leinum – your local Medicare Expert – can help you understand the many parts of Medicare and determine what the right fit is for you. Give me a call to discuss the options available to you.
