Seniors Have More 2025 Medicare Advantage Plans To Choose From
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More 2025 Medicare Advantage Plans To Choose From
The average Medicare beneficiary has access to 39 Medicare Advantage plans in 2026, with major metro areas offering significantly more options. However, several large MA insurers reduced benefits or exited markets in 2025 and 2026. Reviewing CMS star ratings, network access, and drug formularies before enrolling is essential — more plan options means more comparison work required.
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NEWS – August 26, 2024 – Senior will have 40 different Medicare Advantage plans to compare for 2025. That is a significant increase, according to the American Association for Medicare Supplement Insurance (AAMSI).
“The number of Medicare Advantage (MA) plans being offered continues to grow over time,” shares Jesse Slome, director of the Medicare planning advocacy organization. “Choice is good but it also can be confusing and cumbersome for many seniors. It can take a little work to make sure they get the best plan coverage available.
Half of all Medicare beneficiaries are now enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan according to AAMSI. “The typical Medicare beneficiary will have 40 different plans to compare for 2025,” Slome reports. “That’s up from 28 plans in 2020 and only 17 in 2015.”
Medicare provides all MA plan beneficiaries with the opportunity to compare and switch plans during the Fall. “While a few plan providers tend to dominate the market, there can be better options available for 2025. Comparing during AEP can be beneficial.”
Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period begins October 15 and concludes on December 7.
The Medicare insurance expert shared several reasons he recommends seniors take advantage of this year’s AEP.
Why Compare 2025 Medicare Advantage Plans
“Insurance companies may alter the benefits offered for 2025,” Slome explains. “This could include changes in premiums, deductibles, copayments, out-of-pocket maximums or additional benefits.” By comparing plans annually, beneficiaries can ensure they select a plan that meets their current health needs and financial situation.
MA plans often have specific networks of doctors and hospitals. “If your preferred providers are no longer in-network or if new providers and specialists are added to other plans, it may be worth considering a switch,” he adds.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides star ratings for MA plans based on quality of care and customer satisfaction. “It’s important to annually check out the most recent rating for your particular MA plan,” Slome recommends. “At the same time, it pays to ask for ratings of other plans available in your area.”
The majority of Medicare Advantage plans now offer extra benefits that are not covered by Original Medicare according to Slome. These include dental, vision, hearing and even gym memberships. “But the levels of coverage can vary widely. And this can be an important factor for seniors who need costly dental work as an example,” Slome points out.
Nearly 33 million Americans currently have Medicare Advantage coverage according to AAMSI. “All 33 million have exactly 53 days to compare and make a decision,” Slome concludes. “There just are not enough professionals available to help everyone so we strongly recommend finding and connecting with a local Medicare Advantage expert early to ensure you book some calendar time.”
The American Association for Medicare Supplement Insurance is an independent advocacy organization. AAMSI supports insurance professionals who market Medicare Advantage, Medigap and Medicare drug plan coverages. AAMSI makes available the leading online directory listing local Medicare agents. Go to https://medicaresupp.org for more information.
A Few Tips From AAMSI
Start planning early. Medicare’s AEP is only 53 days.
Contact at least one local Medicare insurance agent as part of your research.
Read the Annual Notice of Change. Look for it in your mail during September.
Frequently asked questions:
How many Medicare Advantage plans are available in 2026?
Do all Medicare Advantage plans include prescription drug coverage?
What extra benefits do Medicare Advantage plans typically offer?
How do CMS star ratings help me choose a Medicare Advantage plan?
