Payer Roundup—Sanders adds long-term care coverage to Medicare for All plan

Sanders wants to expand long-term care coverage

Sen. Bernie Sanders is expanding his Medicare for All proposal to include long-term care. 

Medicare for All has gained steam among the progressive wing of the Democratic Party, but some moderate Dems have said that adding long-term care provisions to the bill will be too expensive. Sanders’ move follows actions in the House to incorporate long-term care benefits in their newly introduced legislation.

Currently, between 7 million and 8 million people in the U.S. have private long-term care insurance, which requires applicants to pass a health screening. (Associated Press)

Montana: Governor vetoes bill to loosen health regulations

Montana Governor Steve Bullock has vetoed a Republican-sponsored health insurance bill.

Senate Bill 54, sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Fred Thomas, proposes less strict federal regulations on health insurance arrangements among businesses. Moderates like Bullock believe these new rules could make it easier for insurance sellers to offer substandard coverage.

On the other hand, Thomas argues that this is just another move by the Democrats to limit the number of private insurance options on the market. (KPAX.com)

Louisiana Blues releases digital savings tool

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Louisiana unleashed a new digital tool that will help more than 637,000 members price drugs and manage prescriptions.

The e-commerce and mobile app program, called Rx Savings Solutions, connects members’ drug records and prepares personalized prescription savings plans. If there is an opportunity to save, Rx Savings Solutions will alert members via text or email. 

Beyond drugs, the digital tool also lists alternatives for medical services that are less expensive out of pocket for consumers. (Digital Commerce 360)