Summary
Enrollment in Medicare Advantage, a private version of Medicare, is expected to decrease next year, dropping from 34.9 million to 34 million beneficiaries. This change means Medicare Advantage will cover a smaller share of the overall Medicare market. The decline is partly due to insurance companies leaving the market and increased business pressures.
Key Facts
- The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services forecast a drop in Medicare Advantage enrollment from 34.9 million in 2025 to 34 million next year.
- Medicare Advantage's market share will drop from 50% to 48%.
- Open enrollment for Medicare starts on October 15 and ends on December 7.
- Seniors choose Medicare Advantage for extra benefits like vision and dental coverage but face limited doctor choices.
- The decline is partly due to insurance companies reducing their market presence.
- Business pressures, such as regulatory changes and higher medical costs, impact Medicare Advantage providers.
- The Inflation Reduction Act affects carriers with already tight profit margins.
- Traditional Medicare may appeal to those seeking a broader choice of doctors and fewer coverage hurdles.
