CMS Actuarial User Group Calls for Medicare Advantage 2026 Bids
Relevant to: PDP
Each week, we scan the latest CMS memos to find the most important ones that apply for PACE programs. Below is a summary of what you need to know.
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Click here for the full Actuarial User Group Calls memo from CMS.
Introduction
The CMS Office of the Actuary has announced a series of weekly actuarial user group calls aimed at providing guidance on the Bid Pricing Tools for Contract Year 2026 bids. These calls, starting on April 17 and continuing every Thursday until May 29, 2025, offer a platform for actuaries to engage in live Q&A sessions. Participants can join online or via phone, with further inquiries being welcomed through email prior to each call.
Key Dates and Deadlines
- User group calls begin: April 17, 2025
- User group calls end: May 29, 2025
- Questions must be emailed 48 hours in advance of each call
PACE Compliance
This memo is relevant to PACE programs because it involves guidance on the Bid Pricing Tools which are essential for compliance with Medicare payments. Plans must ensure they accurately complete these tools to avoid any discrepancies in their bids for the Contract Year 2026.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services will be conducting a series of weekly actuarial user group calls to provide further guidance on these tools and to answer any questions regarding the preparation of bids. It would be beneficial for PACE programs to participate in these calls or review the responses to questions posted on the CMS website to ensure they are compliant.
Non-compliance or inaccurate completion of the Bid Pricing Tools may result in submissions being suppressed on the Medicare Plan Finder, which could impact the visibility and accessibility of plans to potential enrollees. Therefore, it is critical that plans adhere to this guidance, participate in the calls, or seek answers through the provided resources to maintain compliance.
Required Actions
The CMS Office of the Actuary has announced a series of weekly user group calls to assist actuaries with the Bid Pricing Tools.
1. **Schedule Participation:** Attend the weekly calls scheduled for every Thursday from April 17 through May 29, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM ET. Choose between online participation or listening in by phone.
2. **Prepare Questions in Advance:** Submit any questions you may have by emailing them to actuarial-bids@cms.hhs.gov at least 48 hours before each call.
3. **Access Additional Information:** Review posted responses to pre-submitted questions on the CMS website for further guidance.
FAQs
- What are Actuarial User Group Calls?
- When are the CMS Actuarial User Group Calls scheduled?
- How can I join the Actuarial User Group Calls?
- Where can I find responses to questions submitted for the calls?
- Who should attend the Actuarial User Group Calls?
Click here for the full Actuarial User Group Calls memo from CMS.
