Congressman John Joyce, MD, introduced the Medicare Advantage Improvement Act (MAIA) on Apr. 23, a bipartisan bill designed to strengthen the Medicare Advantage program and improve access to care for seniors.
The legislation aims to address concerns about barriers such as prior authorization requirements and coverage denials that can delay or prevent seniors from receiving timely healthcare. Lawmakers say these reforms are needed to restore accountability in the system and ensure that older Americans get the medical services they were promised.
“Medicare is a promise to America’s seniors that they will have dependable access to quality healthcare in their later years. However, that promise has been undermined by unnecessary barriers to care—particularly through excessive use of prior authorization and inappropriate coverage denials in Medicare Advantage,” said Congressman John Joyce, MD (PA-13). “As a physician, I have seen firsthand how these delays harm patients and take valuable time away from the doctor-patient relationship. The Medicare Advantage Improvement Act will restore accountability, reduce unnecessary barriers, and ensure that seniors receive timely, high-quality care.” Congresswoman Kim Schrier added: “Health insurance companies have abused Medicare Advantage plans for too long… We need increased oversight into the Medicare Advantage program so that all seniors get the care they were promised.” Other co-sponsors echoed similar sentiments about improving transparency and reducing administrative burdens.
Stakeholders from across healthcare also voiced support for MAIA. Eduardo Conrado of Ascension said: “Prior authorizations and inappropriate denials delay care and create confusion when patients need clarity and support most… This legislation is an important step toward strengthening the doctor-patient relationship.” Kate Beller of AMRPA highlighted survey results showing many seniors face delays after referrals for rehabilitation services: “This bill takes a critical step forward in accelerating determination timeframes, increasing plan transparency and oversight, and reducing administrative burdens for patients, caregivers, and providers.” Anthony Misitano of PAM Health emphasized supporting improvements so Medicare Advantage can fulfill its goal of providing efficient access to high-quality medical care.
John Joyce has served in Congress representing Pennsylvania’s 13th District since 2019 according to Wikipedia. He was born in Altoona in 1957 and currently lives in Hollidaysburg as reported by Ballotpedia. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Pennsylvania State University at University Park in 1979 according to his official biography.
Supporters believe passage of MAIA could lead to more consistent experiences for beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans while holding insurers accountable. Mark Tarr of Encompass Health concluded: “With the introduction of the Medicare Advantage Improvement Act… policymakers in Congress are now closer to making much-needed changes… ensuring patients can receive the care they need without unnecessary barriers.”
