This story at a glance…

1. Major Medicare changes in 2025 mean five million beneficiaries will need new plans.

2. Medicare Advantage out-of-pocket costs are rising, and some perks are getting cut.

3. Part D drug plans are decreasing, though out-of-pocket drug costs are capped at $2,000.

4. More hospitals are leaving Medicare Advantage networks, so checking your providers is crucial.e

  Big Changes to Medicare in 2025: What to Expect

Starting in 2025, Medicare is rolling out significant changes that will impact around five million beneficiaries. As insurers modify or even discontinue some Medicare Advantage and Part D drug plans, many will need to choose new plans or adjust to shifts in benefits and costs. Here’s what you need to know to navigate these changes.

Changes to Medicare Advantage Plans: What It Means for You
If you’re enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you may find that certain benefits are changing or that your plan is no longer available. Though average premiums are generally decreasing, other costs—such as out-of-pocket limits—are increasing. On average, Medicare Advantage plans are expected to see out-of-pocket maximums rise by roughly $450, bringing them to approximately $5,929.

Each insurer has its own approach. For instance, Humana, Aetna, and UnitedHealthcare are increasing out-of-pocket costs at different rates, with Humana leading the way. If you’re trying to figure out which plan to choose, it’s important to check what your out-of-pocket maximum could be and whether your preferred doctors and hospitals are still in-network.

What to Know About Drug Plans in 2025
Part D drug coverage is also seeing major changes. While the new $2,000 cap on out-of-pocket prescription costs could help, the number of stand-alone drug plans is dropping by a quarter. This reduction might mean finding a new plan if yours is being discontinued. For those with Medicare Advantage plans that include drug coverage, higher drug deductibles are also on the horizon.

Before you choose a plan, it’s a good idea to make sure your medications are covered and to compare the copayments across different plans. Medicare’s website provides tools to check these details, so you can find the plan that fits your needs and budget.

Hospital Networks Are Shifting
In addition to benefit changes, more hospitals are leaving Medicare Advantage networks. This means that if you value having access to specific healthcare providers, you might want to check whether they are still in your plan’s network. If having freedom of choice is important, switching to traditional Medicare could be an option, as it gives broader access to most hospitals and doctors.

Traditional Medicare, however, does not have a cap on out-of-pocket expenses, so beneficiaries often consider Medigap plans to help with these costs. These plans vary by state, so you’ll want to explore your options and see if a supplemental policy is right for you.

Extra Perks Are Getting a Trim
Medicare Advantage plans have been popular for offering extras like dental, vision, and wellness programs. However, some of these extras are being trimmed back, meaning that certain perks might not be as generous as in previous years. For example, Aetna plans are scaling back dental and vision benefits, and other insurers are reducing travel assistance and hearing aid coverage.

To find out exactly what your plan offers, read the “evidence of coverage” document carefully. This will help you understand what’s included and any new limits that apply to extra benefits.

How to Get Help Choosing a Plan
Medicare choices can be complex, especially with these new changes. For unbiased advice, start with Medicare’s own tools on Medicare.gov, where you can compare plans and get information on benefits and costs. The State Health Insurance Assistance Program also offers free counseling in every state, while organizations like the Medicare Rights Center provide national helplines for guidance.

Picking a plan can be time-consuming, but resources like Healthpilot and the Center for Medicare Advocacy offer online tools and personalized recommendations to simplify the process. Taking time to research and compare your options can help you make a more informed choice and ensure you find a plan that meets your needs.

Reflection
Amid life uncertainties, we can find assurance in God’s promise in Hebrews 13:5, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” Whether you’re navigating new health plans or dealing with unexpected challenges, remember that God’s love and guidance are steady and unchanging. Trust in Him to light your path as you make decisions, knowing that His presence is constant, no matter how life’s circumstances shift.