CMS Announces 9.7% Medicare Part B Premium Increase for 2026

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has announced that Medicare Part B premiums will increase to $202.09 per month in the upcoming year, marking a 9.7% rise from the $185 rate set for 2025. This premium adjustment applies to individuals with an annual income of $109,000 or less. The increase will be implemented immediately, with charges prorated based on existing subscription levels. In related developments, CMS has finalized agreements concerning reimbursements for four oncology drugs under Medicare, which may impact oncology treatment coverage and payer-provider negotiations. Additionally, hospitals have initiated legal action to challenge the CMS 340B drug rebate pilot program, indicating ongoing regulatory and compliance disputes in drug pricing and reimbursement frameworks.