A Glimpse into Medicare Advantage in 2019

Medicare Advantage already provides better service, better care, and better value to more than 23 million Americans – and next year’s looking even better for seniors who rely on the health care program. According to The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Medicare Advantage premiums will decrease while plan choices and benefits will increase in 2019.

Medicare Advantage strengthens seniors’ physical and mental health, but that’s not all. It’s also a valuable resource that protects seniors’ financial health. Currently, the average Medicare Advantage premium is $29.81. This is estimated to fall six percent in 2019, bringing down the average premium to just $28.00. Most Medicare Advantage enrollees who remain in their current plan will either have the same premium or lower.

Medicare Advantage has a long tradition of giving Americans the freedom to choose health care that works for them – and in 2019, there will be more choices than ever. Nearly all Medicare beneficiaries are estimated to currently have access to at least 10 Medicare Advantage plans. That’s a lot of options – but next year, seniors will have access to an estimated 34 different plans per county.

Unlike traditional Medicare, Medicare Advantage includes a variety of benefits such as prescription drug coverage, vision, dental, hearing, and wellness care. Soon, approximately 270 Medicare Advantage plans will provide new benefits like adult day care services, in-home support services, and reduced cost sharing for enrollees with certain medical conditions.

Without a doubt, these changes will increase access to quality health care services for millions of Americans. By providing more benefits at lower cost, Medicare Advantage is a health care program that will continue to deliver better service, better care, and better value.