Changes Coming to Medicare Advantage Plans in 2025: What You Need to Know

As the end of the year approaches, many older Americans will face thinner benefits and coverage changes when shopping for health insurance. In 2025, more than a million people may find themselves needing to find new coverage as major insurers cut costs and withdraw from markets for Medicare Advantage plans — the privately run version of the federal government’s coverage program for individuals aged 65 and older.

Industry experts are also predicting price increases for Medicare prescription drug plans due to required coverage improvements. This will coincide with the upcoming election as voters prepare to choose the next president while Democrat Kamala Harris campaigns on promises to lower health care costs.

Insurers are pulling back from Medicare Advantage markets, leaving many individuals in search of new coverage options. Humana and CVS Health’s Aetna are among the big insurers expecting a significant loss of customers as they pull out of certain markets due to rising costs, care usage, and government reimbursement cuts.

For those affected by these changes, finding new coverage may prove to be a challenge. With insurers leaving markets, it may become more difficult to find plans with lower quality ratings or plans with a higher proportion of Black buyers. This can be particularly challenging for individuals with multiple doctors or cognitive impairments like dementia.

As the annual enrollment window approaches, it is crucial for individuals to carefully review their options and understand the out-of-pocket costs associated with each plan. With potential changes on the horizon, experts emphasize the importance of not simply re-enrolling in the status quo and instead taking the time to evaluate all available choices.

Overall, the changes in Medicare Advantage plans and prescription drug coverage in 2025 are expected to have a significant impact on millions of Americans. It is essential for individuals to stay informed and proactive in navigating these changes to ensure they have the best coverage for their needs.