CMS released preliminary Medicare COVID-19 snapshot data that focus on Medicare claims. The data show an elevated risk for seniors with underlying health conditions (see related link).
 
Among those hospitalized with COVID-19, “the five most prevalent chronic conditions for Medicare fee-for-service beneficiaries were: hypertension (79%); hyperlipidemia (60%); chronic kidney disease (50%); anemia (50%) and diabetes (50%),” according to a Medicare COVID-19 data release blog.
 
Over 325,000 Medicare beneficiaries have been diagnosed with COVID-19 this year through May 16, according to a Medicare COVID-19 data release blog. The snapshot data showed that “28% of hospitalized beneficiaries died in the hospital while 27% were discharged to their homes,” according to a Medicare COVID-19 data release blog. The remainder of beneficiaries were discharged to skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) (21%) or other health care settings.
 
Rates have been higher for black beneficiaries with 465 hospitalizations per 100,000 beneficiaries. Hispanic beneficiaries had 258 hospitalizations per 100,000 beneficiaries and there were 379 hospitalizations per 100,000 beneficiaries who are age 85 and older, according to the Medicare COVID-19 data blog.
 
Related link: For additional information on the preliminary Medicare COVID-19 snapshot data, visit: https://go.cms.gov/3eD5R9F.