Revenue Cycle and Payer News – February 25, 2026

HHS Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters for 2027 Proposed Rule
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), issued the proposed “Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters” for the 2027 plan year (the 2027 Payment Notice proposed rule) that sets standards for the Health Insurance Exchanges, as well as for health insurance issuers, brokers, and agents who connect millions of consumers to Affordable Care Act (ACA) coverage.

UnitedHealthcare’s AI-powered Capability Helps Identify and Distribute More Cash Payments for Members
UnitedHealthcare released new data showing how Benefit Assist® is helping consumers get cash back from their health plan. This AI-enabled program is designed to help automatically identify when members may qualify for supplemental health payments and has delivered nearly four times more cash benefits to eligible members compared to other plans. The capability is designed to help simplify a process many find complicated during an accident or serious diagnosis by making it easier for families to receive their payments.

Humana Named KCTCS Education First Employer, Announces Humana Scholars Program for Nursing Students
Humana is investing in a new program with Jefferson Community and Technical College to strengthen and support Kentucky’s nursing workforce. In announcing the launch of the Humana Scholars program, Humana joins the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) network of Education First Employers, partnering with the system’s Louisville campus, Jefferson.

Aetna launches simplified, digital-first, benefits onboarding experience for members in 2026
Aetna®, a CVS Health® company announces the introduction of an industry leading, fully-digital benefits onboarding experience for four million members during the 2026 welcome season. This technology-enabled offering provides easier navigation and self-service for members by leveraging digital and Rich Communication Services [“RCS”] enabled text messaging channels to access the information, resources and support they need at the start of the plan year.

Humana Redefines the Member Experience with Agent Assist Built with Google Cloud
Humana Inc., a U.S. health and well-being company, announced the launch of Agent Assist, a new solution built with Google Cloud (opens in new window)’s AI to support Humana’s member advocates to deliver more personalized, accurate, and timely answers to member health benefit questions. The initiative marks another step in Humana’s broader digital transformation journey, which focuses on improving member experiences through the responsible, transparent and human-centered use of artificial intelligence.

The top health care trends for 2026 and how they will impact U.S. employers by Giselle Abramovich, editor-in-chief, Cigna Healthcare Newsroom – America’s health care landscape is undergoing profound transformation. Cost pressures are mounting as pharmaceutical innovation accelerates, chronic conditions rise, and economic forces reshape how care is delivered and financed.

2026 Medicare, Medicaid, Duals & Commercial Markets Forum (MMDC26)
When: March 23-25, 2026
Where: Washington, DC
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LinkedIn: AHIP

AHIP’s Medicare, Medicaid, and Commercial Markets Conference (MMDC26) is the leading even.t for health plan executives and policy leaders focused on driving better outcomes, ensuring coverage and care, and strengthening America’s health care system.