Becker’s Payer Issues Podcast Data Driven Leadership in Medicare Advantage with Jennifer L. Kowalski of Elevance Health
Mar 3, 2026
Jennifer L. Kowalski, Vice President at Elevance Health’s Public Policy Institute, leads data-driven research on Medicare Advantage. She discusses how rigorous evidence shapes strategy, the integration challenges for dual eligibles, and opportunities around affordability, navigation, and supplemental benefits. The conversation highlights using research to guide policy and sustainable innovation.
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Medicare Advantage As Core To Lifelong Care
- Medicare Advantage is a critical part of a full-spectrum health plan portfolio that supports older adults and people with disabilities.
- It offers coordinated care, integrated drug coverage, out-of-pocket maximums, and supplemental benefits that drive member choice and value.
Three Pillars That Explain Medicare Advantage Value
- Medicare Advantage delivers value, access, and program efficiency through networks, integrated benefits, and supplemental services.
- PPI research links supplemental benefits use to better outcomes, shorter specialty wait times, slower Medicare spending growth, and reduced fraud compared with fee-for-service Medicare.
Integrate Benefits For Dual Eligible Members
- Prioritize integration for dual eligible members by using DSNPs to simplify navigation and coordinate medical, social, and long-term services.
- Fully integrated DSNPs that include long-term services and supports can better serve higher-need dually eligible populations.