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Final Program


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Symposium

Health Services Research

Aging Research & Geriatric Rehabilitation

Unpacking Medicare Advantage in Post-acute Rehabilitation 2567

Tuesday, October 28, 2025
1:30 PM - 2:30 PM  
Location:  ROOM: Continental C Ballroom >>> DIRECTIONS: Lobby Level >>> From the Main Elevator Bank, proceed right toward the FedEx Office. Continue past ACRM Registration and into the Continental Foyer. Continental C Lobby is located near the far end of the ballroom complex.
Since the Medicare Modernization Act of 2003, enrollment in Medicare Advantage (MA) plans has surged, now covering over 50% of beneficiaries. Yet, most research has focused on fee-for-service (FFS) patients, leaving a gap in our understanding of MA plans’ impact on post-acute rehabilitation. Unlike FFS, MA plans are managed by private insurers using capitated payments, which proponents argue promote coordinated, preventative care and reduce costs. However, critics contend that these cost-controlling measures—such as prior authorization requirements and restricted networks—may delay timely access to high-quality rehabilitation and lead to excess federal spending. This symposium will provide an overview of MA plans and present empirical examples to illuminate the advantages and disadvantages of MA in post-acute rehabilitative care.

Learning Objectives:

  • Compare and contrast the structure and reimbursement mechanisms of MA and FFS plans.
  • Critically assess the advantages and disadvantages of capitated payment models in MA plans, including their impact on care coordination, and access to high-quality rehabilitation services.
  • Examine emerging research on how MA enrollment affects rehabilitation access, quality, and outcomes across diverse post-acute settings and care systems.
  • Identify and discuss the broader policy and financial implications of managed care in rehabilitation, including potential effects on federal expenditures and care delivery.