Episode 28: Inside the 2027 MA and Part D Proposed Rule: Star ratings, equity, and what plans must do next

In this hour-long episode of RISE Radio, Editorial Director Ilene MacDonald sits down with industry experts to break down the changes in CMS’ 2027 Medicare Advantage and Part D proposed rule, why removing 12 measures and bringing back the reward factor is a true Stars redesign, and how plans can pivot from operational wins to outcome performance. We also explore the new depression screening measure and the new SEP when providers exit networks, with clear steps to protect quality and retention. Our guests are Ana Handshuh, principal of CAT5 Strategies, Melissa Smith, founder and senior advisor of the Newton Smith Group, and Rex Wallace, founder & principal of Rex Wallace Consulting. For more on these changes, join us at The RISE Star Ratings Master Class , December 16-18 in Frisco, Texas or RISE National 2026 , March 23-25 in Orlando, Fla.

You can listen to Episode 28: Inside the 2027 MA and Part D Proposed Rule: Star ratings, equity, and what plans must do next online on Radio and Podcast. Open the player on this page to stream the available audio.

Episode 28: Inside the 2027 MA and Part D Proposed Rule: Star ratings, equity, and what plans must do next is an episode from RISE Radio by Ilene MacDonald.

This episode is 57:36 long.

This episode was published on Dec 5, 2025.

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