Study Finds Medicare Could Save $2.6 Billion by Cutting Low-Value Services in Older Adults

A recent study indicates that the U.S. Medicare program, along with its beneficiaries, spends approximately $4.4 billion annually on medical tests and procedures that offer minimal or no clinical benefit, and may even pose health risks. The research highlights 47 such services, including certain screenings and diagnostic tests, that lack evidence of effectiveness for most patients. By reducing utilization of these low-value interventions—particularly five services identified with a grade "D" by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force—Medicare could potentially save up to $2.6 billion each year. These five services encompass screening for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in the elderly, urinary bacteria testing in asymptomatic individuals, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing in men over 70 without prostate issues, carotid artery screening in asymptomatic seniors, and electrocardiograms for detecting heart rhythm problems in healthy older adults. The study emphasizes that withholding coverage for such services aligns with the Affordable Care Act's provisions, allowing the Medicare system to deny payment for low-value care. The research, conducted by health economist...