The Challenge
MA pays rural hospitals less than the cost of care.
On average, MA reimburses only 90.6% of traditional Medicare rates and in some facilities as low as 76%. Even critical access hospitals, supposed to be cost-based reimbursed, receive just 95% of cost from MA.

Nearly 15% of all MA claims are initially denied, half overturned only after costly appeals. MA patients experience 9.6% longer hospital stays awaiting insurer approvals.

81% of rural clinicians report diminished quality of care due to MA requirements. 86% say outcomes are being harmed by paperwork and delays.
For low-income seniors, MA’s lower premiums can feel like the only affordable option, even though it often limits their access to local hospitals, specialists, and timely care.
The Result
Vector Health’s Solution

Remove Barriers

Fair Reimbursements

Patient Application
Seniors in the hospital’s service area apply for need-based assistance through a secure, compliant process.

Independent Administration
Vector Health verifies eligibility and pays Medicare directly, ensuring hospitals remain fully compliant and patients experience no bias or inducement.

Sustainable Impact
Hospitals improve reimbursement stability and patient retention. Communities preserve local access to care.
Why it Matters

For Patients
Freedom to choose any provider under Original Medicare, without the restrictions or delays of MA.

For Hospitals
Restored reimbursement rates, reduced administrative burden, and stronger financial sustainability.

For Communities
Keeps rural hospitals open and care local.
Eligibility Snapshot

Join the Effort
Hospitals, community foundations, and state partners can participate in Vector Health’s Premium Assistance Program to protect access and strengthen rural care systems.
Open Enrollment: October 15 – December 7
MA Open Enrollment: January 1 – March 31
Get in touch with our team to learn how to launch the program in your community.