BeneLynk is the nation’s leading dual-eligible advocacy company serving government-sponsored health plans. Because of this work, BeneLynk is sometimes asked to provide the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) with insights. Most recently, Vicki Jessup, BeneLynk’s Vice President of Government Relations and Quality Assurance, submitted comments to CMS on the information collection request for the Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs). In that commentary, BeneLynk supported CMS's efforts to streamline the MSP application process with a national model application, which we believe will increase the efficiency and effectiveness of the application process, thereby increasing participation rates and improving the health and financial well-being of eligible individuals. BeneLynk highlighted that only 18 states currently have an MSP-only application, leading to inconsistencies and barriers in the application process. We emphasized that many state forms request unnecessary information, deterring applicants, and suggested simplifying forms by removing non-essential questions, especially in states without resource limits. We recommended CMS create separate forms for states with and without MSP asset limits to avoid confusion. BeneLynk also urged CMS to ensure paper application forms are easily accessible online and to remind states of the requirement to accept faxed applications. Additionally, we provided detailed suggestions to improve the MSP application form, such as clear instructions on retroactive eligibility, proof of citizenship, and the definition of eligible immigration status.
We appreciate the opportunity to provide these comments and look forward to CMS’s continued efforts in improving the Medicare Savings Programs.