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Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Runs Until March 31—Here’s What to Consider
If you’re frustrated to find that your favorite doctor is no longer in your Medicare Advantage plan’s network, now is the time to make a change.
Medicare Advantage enrollees can switch plans or return to Original Medicare during the open enrollment period, which ends on March 31. However, you cannot move from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan during this period—you’ll have to wait for the fall enrollment period for that change.
Why Medicare Advantage Plans Are Popular
Medicare Advantage plans are an alternative to Original Medicare for people 65 and older. Run by private insurance companies like UnitedHealthcare and Humana, these plans have gained significant popularity in recent years.
In 2025, enrollment is projected to reach 35.7 million, meaning more than half of all Medicare beneficiaries will be in an Advantage plan.
One of the biggest draws of Medicare Advantage plans is the additional benefits they offer, which aren’t included in Original Medicare. These may include:
- Prescription drug coverage (Part D)
- Eyeglasses and dental coverage
- Fitness classes
- Low or even $0 monthly premiums
In contrast, Original Medicare’s monthly Part B premium is $185 this year, and beneficiaries must meet an annual Part B deductible of $257 before coverage kicks in.
Provider Networks Are a Key Concern
Despite these benefits, Medicare Advantage plans come with limitations, particularly regarding provider networks.
Unlike Original Medicare, which allows beneficiaries to see any doctor who accepts Medicare, Advantage plans typically restrict enrollees to a specific network of doctors, hospitals, and specialists—and these networks can change from year to year.
It’s common for enrollees to be referred to a specialist who is out-of-network, requiring either:
- Prior authorization before scheduling an appointment
- Paying out-of-pocket for care
For many, losing access to a preferred doctor or facing higher out-of-pocket costs is a major reason to switch plans.
To address these concerns, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced new rules for Medicare Advantage plans, requiring insurers to process prior authorization requests more quickly and provide clear reasons for denials—but these changes won’t take effect until 2026.
Changes to Drug Costs in 2025
Another important factor to consider when switching plans is prescription drug coverage. Medicare Advantage plans often adjust:
- Covered drug lists (formularies)
- Preferred pharmacy networks
- Out-of-pocket costs for medications
According to Freed, reviewing your drug coverage annually ensures you’re getting the best value based on the prescriptions you take.
Additionally, the Inflation Reduction Act is introducing major cost savings: out-of-pocket prescription drug costs will be capped at $2,000 per year for beneficiaries with Part D coverage, whether through Medicare Advantage or standalone Part D plans.
Another notable change: Medicare Advantage plan deductibles are rising significantly. In 2025, plans with a deductible will charge an average of $225, a sharp increase from $59 in 2024, according to KFF.
Where to Get Help
If you’re considering switching plans, free one-on-one counseling is available through the:
- Medicare Rights Center – Call 800-333-4114
- Medicare – Call 800-633-4227
With Medicare Shepherd, you're able to use our Compare Your Plan tool to compare your current Medicare Advantage plan with available plans in your area. If you'd rather see all plans available to you without comparing, use our Plan Finder tool.
With the Medicare Shepherd app, you're able to view your plan details, like benefits, OTC allowances, and more, at the tips of your fingers!
Have questions? Feel free to contact us!