Federal Health Program Changes Began 2026

For retirees, three 2026 changes affected costs, approvals, and virtual care access, making benefit reviews more important before scheduling care or budgeting appointments.
Standard Part B premiums ↑ to $202.90 per mo in 2026, a $17.90 yearly jump that may offset some retirement benefit gains.
Starting Jan. 1, a six-year pilot in six test states required prior authorization for certain procedures and devices, including skin grafts and knee surgery.
Telehealth coverage changed on Jan. 31, so many beneficiaries needed rural medical facilities, adding travel, time, and potential transportation costs for appointments.
Exceptions remained for behavioral health, kidney disease care, and stroke evaluations, while the authorization pilot is planned to run six yr total.