Isn't it concerning that Medicare Advantage plans are taking over the system?

Question

Mal Varlack · Accepted Answer

Is it concerning? On the one hand the only other option is a Medicare Supplement (or high deductible Medicare Supplement) or do nothing and just have Original Medicare. Being that health costs have increased significantly and that more people are looking to not pay now and pay later (as they use their plan) it is the only option. Other factors like the cost of living have made Medicare Advantage for those eligible attractive. Whereas they would have to pay a monthly premium for a Medicare Supplement. So in that regard it’s the best option for those budgeting or trying to make ends meet. On the other hand, it does leave the fact that there are 6 major Medicare Advantage companies ( there are some regional Medicare Advantage carriers) and these 6 you could say are monopolizing the market. So in that regard they’re pockets are so deep that they can lobby for laws and regulation that benefit their stock prices at the expense of the true intention of healthcare

Answered by Mal Varlack on April 17, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL, AZ, GA & 11 other states

Answered by Mal Varlack Medicare Insurance Agent

Mike Alexander · Answer

Yes because it limits consumer choice.  Advantage plans appeals
 because of premium cost, but they a t is not the full story

Lt Col Tim Brown · Answer

My wife and I are on Medicare Advantage.  We think they are very good. Now there is no perfect plan. Medicare supplements are becoming increasingly expensive, they go up every year, they don’t include dental, vision, hearing or prescription drug coverage.  Medicare Advantage plans are very attractive to people.  That’s my answer. 
Lt Col Tim Brown
Contact me.

Terri Reagin · Answer

Medicare Advantage plans, while a very popular option, are not taking over the world. What is taking over is the rising cost of health care. Even people with supplement plans and original Medicare are going to start seeing the effects of that, not only in their prescription drug coverage, but also in the rising cost of Medicare supplements and the more restrictions that have never been a part of them in the past. They are now starting to talk about adding things like prior authorizations and things of that nature to Medicare supplements. So really, you're not seeing a push for Medicare Advantage so much as you're seeing the implications of the rising cost of health care in this country and the squeeze that it is putting on the insurance companies. I hope this helps.

Christopher Boyd · Answer

Although many advertisements reference Medicare Advantage plans, most of my clients 65 and over sign up for a Medicare Supplement.

George Ibanez · Answer

Medicare advantage plans are very restrictive when it comes to the doctors that you can use as well as the hospitals that you can use and pre-approvals for procedures and I do not think that they will ever replace traditional Medicare with a Medicare supplement or Medigap plan since Medicare supplement plans are far superior in every way.

Answered by George Ibanez on July 30, 2025

Broker Licensed in AR, AL, AZ & 40 other states

Answered by George Ibanez Medicare Insurance Agent

Charise Karjala · Answer

Charise Karjala here from Palm Springs, California. The question is, isn't it concerning that Medicare Advantage plans are taking over the system? It's an interesting question, and I'm gonna tackle it in a couple of different ways.

Number one, I'm gonna refute that they are taking over the system. There are many, many people who do not want to have Medicare Advantage, poor and rich people alike. They opt to spend their resources where they choose. If they choose to have a Medicare or a Medigap policy and a drug plan, that's their choice, and they put their money where their preferences are.

Medicare Advantage is a system of affordable care that provides embedded benefits over and above Medicare CMS guidelines. They do all of the care stuff that gets done, and they throw in benefits like dental, vision, rides, over-the-counter items, food, and it goes on and on—hearing aids, and yeah, it's wonderful. Medicare Advantage policies cost our country far less than Medicare policies do, and in so doing, they save us taxpayers money and also save the consumer money. The consumer pays for a Medicare Advantage plan, their Medicare Part B premium, whatever that is, which fluctuates, and then they pay basically nothing else other than some copays, up to a maximum out-of-pocket of around $1,000 a year. It's brilliant. What's the matter with that?

Well, what's the matter with that is what are you giving up to get access to that affordability? Where I see the problem with Medicare Advantage is that the transparency of the network compromises the plans that are being made on an annualized basis. There is value in working with a broker who understands the complexities of the networks in any given community, especially ones that they live and work in. The consumer does not have the benefit of understanding the size and the ability to access different providers within their network. This is a major drawback of the Medicare Advantage policies. I hate to hear of my clients waiting months for a referral because this stuff not only should not be happening in Medicare Advantage.

So there's your answer: Are they taking over the system? No.

Edward Smith, ChFC, CRPS, AIF · Answer

No, Medicare Advantage plans are no different than most people's previous employer coverage. There are always tradeoffs in life. I feel the vast majority of MAPD plans are well run and will take care of their Medicare Beneficiaries.

Answered by Edward Smith, ChFC, CRPS, AIF on October 27, 2025

Broker Licensed in OH, GA, IN, KY & TN

Answered by Edward Smith, ChFC, CRPS, AIF Medicare Insurance Agent

Jonathan Potter · Answer

I wouldn't think of it as concerning. In my experience it is a good thing to have many options available to you when you are looking at coverage. That is why it is important that you talk to an experienced agent so they can point you in the right direction instead of you being lost in a sea of options. Good agents study the details of the options and ask good questions to be able to help you find the best plan for you.

Answered by Jonathan Potter on February 2, 2026

Broker Licensed in UT, AZ, CA & 14 other states

Answered by Jonathan Potter Medicare Insurance Agent

Ray McCauley · Answer

why do you believe that Medicare advantage plans are taking over the system people have the option of getting a Medicare advantage plan or a Medicare supplement whatever they choose is depending on what they believe is best for them. As long as they make informed decisions, there’s no bad decision.

Answered by Ray McCauley on November 23, 2025

Broker Licensed in CA, AZ, FL & ID, NV, SC & TN

Answered by Ray McCauley Medicare Insurance Agent

Vincent Murray · Answer

Not really.  You still have a choice.  If you are more comfortable with a Supplement, do that.  Its around $270 per month weather you need it or not and gives you the peace of mind.  
Medicare advantage plans have a maximum out of pocket that protects you. 
As long as your Medicare advocate informs you how to protect yourself with a Cancer Heart Attack and stroke policy you can be very well protected and save over  half of the cost.  If you get a $25000 cancer  diagnosis and separate $25000 heart attack and stroke umbrella package.  
You would still save about $150 per month compared to a supplement.  Lesser policy amounts are available.

Justin Doherty · Answer

In some ways, yes, and in other ways, no. For many people, Medigap (Medicare Supplement) policies are not affordable. Staying with regular Medicare without a supplement is not appealing because of the potential out of pocket costs associated with your health needs. MA plans do offer a maximum amount you can pay each year, as well as smaller co-pays for more common, less expensive services, as well as additional benefits not offered by Medicare. That being said, regular Medicare is very user friendly and when combined with a Medigap policy is a very comprehensive medical coverage. With more people choosing MA plans, that is likely to increase the costs of Medigap policies making them less affordable for even more seniors.

Answered by Justin Doherty on July 10, 2025

Broker Licensed in PA, CO, CT & 11 other states

Answered by Justin Doherty Medicare Insurance Agent

Kerwyn Jones · Answer

I think there is a possibility MA will eventually become more prominent than Medicare Supplements. However, the challenges with Advantage plans may ultimately cause the resurgence or desire for Supplements even more, given there flexibility and problem-free usage and ease of use.

Answered by Kerwyn Jones on May 25, 2026

Broker Licensed in FL, AL, AZ & 21 other states

Answered by Kerwyn Jones Medicare Insurance Agent

Luke Rhoads · Answer

Not in the least. The insurers are very good at what they do, and they are more efficient with the resources provided by the government. Which is our tax dollars and benefits that we deserve from our working lives. Plus medicare advantage plans come with all the goody benefits.

Answered by Luke Rhoads on July 7, 2025

Broker Licensed in OK

Answered by Luke Rhoads Medicare Insurance Agent

James Carlson · Answer

I agree, Medicare Advantage plans are applied for when agents do not inform prospects about the Medicare Supplement plans. Also TV ads and insurance companies promotion of Advantage plans help beneficiaries to believe the only option is an Advantage plan.

Answered by James Carlson on May 12, 2025

Broker Licensed in MN

Answered by James Carlson Medicare Insurance Agent

Ellen Diehl · Answer

I think most people do not understand that the decision to go within an advantage plan can lock them into that for a lifetime. However, the advantage plans can change the formulary change. The network and hospital systems are leaving advantage networks to the tune of 32 hospital systems with Drew in 2024 if you have more questions you can contact me.

Answered by Ellen Diehl on April 9, 2025

Broker Licensed in GA

Answered by Ellen Diehl Medicare Insurance Agent

David Wiley · Answer

no, because the government (Medicare) cannot budget for paying medical claims at 80% with no stop loss.  They can budget for the set price they pay an insurance company annually to pay your claims.

Esther Miller · Answer

Medicare A and B when it first became available did not cover all the issues that happen with aging including vision care, dental care, and prescription drug coverage. All these elements needed to be added separately and Medicare Supplement (Medigap) insurance only covers the gaps in Medicare part A (Hospital) coverage and Medicare Part B (Doctor coverage).  

Medicare Advantage plans were designed to cover these other services along with Medicare Part A, B and D (prescription drug coverage) in one comprehensive and convenient package and are similar to the comprehensive health insurance coverage many people have through work. 

One other advantage of Medicare Advantage Plans, is they change from year to year offering newer and sometimes better benefits than Medicare alone. Since CMS oversees Medicare plans and Medicare insurance, we have the assurance that if there is a bad player, they will be shut down or sanctioned. The Medicare Advantage Star Rating System helps consumers determine the overall client (patient and physician) satisfaction with the various plans.

David Bell · Answer

Medicare changed very little in it's first forty years and that is a bad sign in any program or product. Demand for better service and a better product drives competition between the companies that provide Medicare Advantage plans. This competition makes for a better product for all Medicare recipients that are part of the Medicare Advantage program.

Answered by David Bell on April 15, 2025

Agent Licensed in ID, AZ, CA & 8 other states

Answered by David Bell Medicare Insurance Agent

Steve Thornton · Answer

It’s growing fast because of low premiums and extra benefits, but MA plans also come with networks and prior authorizations that Original Medicare doesn’t.

Bottom line: It’s not one-size-fits-all. The best plan depends on your health, doctors, and budget. Always compare before you decide!

Tom Kowalczyk · Answer

Medicare Advantage plans are an alternative to having Original Medicare parts A & B as your primary coverage.  in 2025 more than half the Medicare eligble population is currently enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan. 

Is a Medicare Advantage plan right for everyone? It depends on each persons unique needs. Speaking with a local licensed broker is a great tool to help you understand all your options.

Bob Greco · Answer

I don’t think it’s concerning. Medicare as it was in the beginning is still available. Medicare Advantage gives people more options on how they can receive Medicare. A takeover would suggest you have no choice. This is clearly not the case.

Answered by Bob Greco on September 15, 2025

Agent Licensed in MO, IA & IL

Answered by Bob Greco Medicare Insurance Agent

Michele Vina · Answer

Right now, the Medicare population is split about 50/50 between Original Medicare with a supplement and Medicare Advantage. I find that ratio to hold true with my clients as well. There is no right or wrong answer, they are just different ways to receive your Medicare benefits with different pros and cons.

Answered by Michele Vina on April 14, 2025

Broker Licensed in TX, KY, OH & OK

Answered by Michele Vina Medicare Insurance Agent

Misty Scaggs · Answer

I don't look at it that way. There are still numerous Medicare Supplements available. The addition of more Medicare Advantage Plans makes it easier for us as Agents to find a plan that works best for our clients. Many are not financially able to afford Medicare Supplements as they also have to purchase a drug plan, dental & vision coverages as well. Medicare Advantage plans also allow those who are healthy to only pay as they use the plan.

Answered by Misty Scaggs on June 23, 2025

Broker Licensed in MO, FL & IL

Answered by Misty Scaggs Medicare Insurance Agent

David Moore · Answer

They are simply one option for you. It’s important to review both Medicare advantage plans as well as supplement plans. Compare the pros and cons and decide what is in your interest.

Steven Bleicher · Answer

All things come in cycles. That’s the key point relevant to this question. When that happens, I don’t know but it won’t be too long until people turn to a Medigap policy (a.k.a., Medicare Supplement).

Answered by Steven Bleicher on April 10, 2025

Broker Licensed in AZ

Answered by Steven Bleicher Medicare Insurance Agent

Andrew Zurbuch, MBA · Answer

No, it isn't concerning. According to a Milliman study shown by an Insurance Company, those on Medicare Advantage get about $1,400 more in benefits per year compared to those Medicare Beneficiaries who have Original Medicare coverage. So it is not Medicare Advantage that is costing Original Medicare more costs. 

Plans are insured or covered by a Medicare Advantage (HMO, PPO, and PFFS) organization with a Medicare contract and/or a Medicare-approved Part D sponsor. Enrollment in the plan depends on the plan’s contract renewal with Medicare. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare to get information on all of your options.

Steve Houchens · Answer

I personally don’t see it as a concern but just an option. Many people may not be able to afford a Medicare Supplement plan plus drup plan plus dental, bison and hearing plans. It’s simply an alternative that give a choice. There isn’t a such thing as a one size fits all coverage as everyone’s needs and financial situation is different.

Answered by Steve Houchens on August 3, 2025

Agent Licensed in KY & TN

Answered by Steve Houchens Medicare Insurance Agent

Leslie Kaz · Answer

Not at all — Medicare Advantage plans have grown because they offer so many valuable extras that Original Medicare doesn’t, like dental, vision, hearing, transportation, and even grocery or OTC benefits. These added supports can make a huge difference for people on fixed incomes who need more complete coverage. Rather than “taking over,” Medicare Advantage plans are giving beneficiaries more options, flexibility, and value. It’s about improving access and quality of life, not limiting it.

Answered by Leslie Kaz on October 27, 2025

Agent Licensed in CA, AL, AZ & 7 other states

Answered by Leslie Kaz Medicare Insurance Agent

Barbara Barnes, CMIP® · Answer

It is extremely concerning to me. The privatization of Medicare comes with for-profit insurance companies, making treatment decisions on behalf of patients and their physicians. I believe that all medical care should be provided in a not-for-profit environment.

Answered by Barbara Barnes, CMIP® on June 2, 2025

Agent Licensed in PA

Answered by Barbara Barnes, CMIP® Medicare Insurance Agent

Terry Salak · Answer

Medicare Advantage plans are NOT taking over the system. Every person who is eligible for Medicare has multiple choices when it comes to their Medicare insurance. They can choose to have Original Medicare and enroll in a Prescription Drug Plan (PDP), they can enroll in a Medicare Supplement plan with a stand-alone Prescription Drug Plan (PDP), or they can enroll in a MAPD (HMO or PPO) plan.

Answered by Terry Salak on October 23, 2025

Agent Licensed in FL, AL, AZ & 11 other states

Answered by Terry Salak Medicare Insurance Agent

Don Golding · Answer

No, neither Advantage nor Original Medicare (with a supplemental plan and prescription plan) is the correct fit for everyone. Both types of coverage have their advantages and their downsides. Medicare Advantage plans are gaining popularity due to their low or no monthly premiums and the rich benefits. Each person has their unique situation. Consult with an independent broker to determine the type of plan that best suits your needs.

Answered by Don Golding on July 28, 2025

Broker Licensed in TX, AL, AR & 5 other states

Answered by Don Golding Medicare Insurance Agent

Tony Kiepe · Answer

They're really excellent supplement plans on the market, but they have become costly, and in general, people don't want to pay that much for their Medicare benefits when they can join an Advantage Plan. Advantage plans offer prescription, dental, hearing, and vision benefits that attract and save money. This is what the consumers want today. Medicare is paying carriers less for Medicare benefits, and doctors want more money. You see a tug-of-war between Advantage plans and physicians. PPO plans had many advantages over the past couple of years, but you are seeing doctors refusing to accept PPO plans in 2026. You are seeing a decrease in extra benefits. The industry has experienced significant disruption over the past two years, with many of my current clients purchasing standalone dental plans and moving to supplement plans to get the coverage they need.

Answered by Tony Kiepe on December 16, 2025

Agent Licensed in WA, AZ, ID & MT

Answered by Tony Kiepe Medicare Insurance Agent

Steven LaPorte · Answer

I don’t see where Medicare advantage are taking over the system. They are just offering an all-in-one plan for people looking for one that include vision, dental, and other add-one. And in some areas is able to offer the plan at zero premium above the initial Social Security draw amount. A Medicare advantage plan is not for everyone.

Answered by Steven LaPorte on March 2, 2026

Agent Licensed in LA, MS & TX

Answered by Steven LaPorte Medicare Insurance Agent

Kathy Adams · Answer

If you move, not knowing if you have a Medicare Advantage Plan or Medigap Plan, coverage could have differences to the State and county where you live.

Tom New · Answer

No, premiums on supplements have gone up so much because of the increase of medical expenses more and more people are unable to afford them.

Andrew Kramer · Answer

Medicare recipients always have a choice to buy a Medigap insurance policy. No one is forcing anyone into Advantage plans. And Advantage plans are not taking over. If more Medicare recipients choose Advantage plans, it's simply their choice.

Answered by Andrew Kramer on September 11, 2025

Agent Licensed in FL

Answered by Andrew Kramer Medicare Insurance Agent

Mark Boone · Answer

To some it is concerning that Medicare Advantage plans are increasing their enrollment because of issues like potential denials of care, network restrictions, and higher costs to the Medicare program, though supporters point to the added benefits like vision and dental coverage as reasons for a Medicare Advantage plan

Answered by Mark Boone on November 15, 2025

Agent Licensed in MN, FL, MI & NC, OH, SC & VA

Answered by Mark Boone Medicare Insurance Agent

Marcie Barnes · Answer

Every Medicare beneficiary has a choice.  Medicare Supplement plans are readily available and don't have the same strict guidelines lines the Medicare Advantage plans have.

Medicare Advantage plans have wider suite of benefits and have premiums as low as $0.

It's the choice of the beneficiary to chose what is best for them.

Mike Henry · Answer

With today’s economy Seniors are looking more and more at costs   Don’t make the mistake of substituting cost for coverage

Deborah Webster · Answer

Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplements are the only two options available to lower the gap left with traditional Medicare. We are currently seeing a strong trend toward Medicare Advantage plans with our seniors. Neither option is wrong, it's about making sure that the coverage you choose fits your situation. The system is designed the way it is; we can only maneuver within what systems we have to work with.

Answered by Deborah Webster on April 10, 2025

Broker Licensed in Ia & SC

Answered by Deborah Webster Medicare Insurance Agent

Adam Ernst · Answer

They are advertising well, but do not have a good name. They are designed for people that have special situations or cannot afford a premium. Hospitals/doctors are not a big fan due to not getting paid for their service by the carriers. There are a few great companies, like Devoted, that truly want to help people.

Answered by Adam Ernst on December 19, 2025

Agent Licensed in NC, SC & TN

Answered by Adam Ernst Medicare Insurance Agent

Sam Silva · Answer

Medicare Advantage plans often highlight extra benefits like gym memberships and dental care. However, these plans may have network restrictions and higher out-of-pocket costs.

Toni Cormier · Answer

Original Medicare Part A and B are a requirement for the Medicare Advantage plans so there is no take over there are options for all.

Brent Mowery · Answer

Any managed care system seems attractive when you are healthy, however, you have insurance for when you are NOT healthy. The 2025-26 trend is that Advantage plans are retracting nationwide and millions of Americans will be forced to consider other options. There are positive and .negative aspects of any plan. Consult with an educated, experienced broker to review all of your options. If I can assist you, I would love to offer my perspective. Thank you!0

Answered by Brent Mowery on October 1, 2025

Broker Licensed in OK, CO, NC & TX

Answered by Brent Mowery Medicare Insurance Agent

John Motsinger · Answer

With the hyperinflation we've seen over the last 5 years, Medicare supplement premiums have had major rate increases, sometimes more than 20%. The result is more people are choosing medicare advantage over med sups. It's projected in the next five years that less than 20% of seniors will have medicare supplements because the premiums are going to be so expensive. That means only the rich will be able to afford medicare supplements. Medicare advantage will always have a strong foothold in the medicare industry.

Answered by John Motsinger on September 1, 2025

Agent Licensed in KY, CO, FL & 9 other states

Answered by John Motsinger Medicare Insurance Agent

Jim Willis · Answer

Not at all, they are better plans. 

I got into selling Medicare because of a $17,000 out-of-pocket expense with my Medigap and/or supplement

Robert Remin · Answer

Robert Remin, expert Medicare plan advisor, licensed in NY, CT, NJ, and FL. Advantage plans are not in my opinion taking over the system. If you use a true professional they will explain all your options so you can make an educated decision for your private carrier Medicare plan/s in addition to original Medicare A and B.

Answered by Robert Remin on July 27, 2025

Agent Licensed in NY, CT, FL & NJ

Answered by Robert Remin Medicare Insurance Agent

Jami Mead · Answer

It may seem that way, however, Medicare Advantage Plans are an option other than Medicare and Medicare Supplimental Insurance Plans. Medicare Advantage Plans offer benefits that are not a part of the other Plans as a perk for their clients.

Answered by Jami Mead on September 29, 2025

Broker Licensed in OH, FL, GA & 11 other states

Answered by Jami Mead Medicare Insurance Agent

John Messler · Answer

Medicare Advantage programs are actually recalling. The reduction in the cap on seniors for prescription drugs from $8000 to $2000 has been great for seniors but a major cost to the insurance companies causing them to pull back extra benefits and pull out of some markets.

Answered by John Messler on October 2, 2025

Agent Licensed in NH, ME, NC, OH, PA & TX

Answered by John Messler Medicare Insurance Agent

Tristan Gibbs · Answer

Not necessarily. Health insurance is a very personal matter, and in many cases, Medicare Advantage plans are the best fit for the client. It is not the ONLY option, just a popular one.

Ray Rios · Answer

Medicare is not ta ki ing over. It's become an option otherwise we would have to pay much more for our medical expenses. Original Medicare is the 80/20 Rule.

Kim Mitchell-Hargis · Answer

The question about Medicare Advantage plans taking over the system. I am not sure what system you are referring to. Your options are original Medicare, Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement plans unless you have an employer sponsored plan. Medicare Advantage plans exist because they are in demand. The competition between the insurance carriers causes an increased number of plans to choose from. It can be a good thing because they offer so many benefits and hopefully a plan that will work for every situation.

Answered by Kim Mitchell-Hargis on June 24, 2025

Broker Licensed in TN, FL & KY

Answered by Kim Mitchell-Hargis Medicare Insurance Agent

Sean Macbean · Answer

........          

True. Medicare Advantage plans are increasing thier market share as people start to understand how they work and the benefits which are attached. 

Medicare supplements are not going away as the older population are not comfortable with the Co-pays, and uncovered costs that Medicare Advantage have. 

My opinion; 5 years ago 20% were on Medicare Advantage plans now it represent 70% of the coverage of Medicare recipient's.

Russell Scott · Answer

These plans have been around since the late 90's. There was a concept called "Medicare Plus Choice" back then which brought in private carriers. MA plans have become a powerful part of the Medicare ecosystem now. Over half of the eligible population has now opted to enroll in Medicare Advantage. However, if it's not your preference you can continue taking your A&B coverage as primary and consider a traditional Medigap policy to lower your costs.

Answered by Russell Scott on July 7, 2025

Agent Licensed in OK, CO, KS, MO & TX

Answered by Russell Scott Medicare Insurance Agent

Stanley Wittenberg · Answer

No. It was planned through Medicare CMS in order for patients to get more benefits not provided by Medicare. 
Glasses, dental and fitness membership are not included in regular Medicare

Randy Hill · Answer

Thanks for your great question!

Let’s break it down super simply:

Right now, more and more people are picking Medicare Advantage plans instead of regular Medicare mainly due to affordability and additional benefits. Medicare Advantage is when private insurance companies (like Humana, UnitedHealthcare, or Aetna) run your Medicare benefits instead of the government.

Is it concerning?
Well… it depends who you ask! Here’s the simple version:

Why Some People Think It’s Good:

These plans often give extra goodies like dental, vision, hearing, gym memberships, and drug coverage all in one plan.

They sometimes have lower monthly costs than regular Medicare with a separate supplement.


Why Some People Are Worried:

Since private insurance companies are in charge, they can decide which doctors you can see and sometimes make you get permission (called prior authorization) before you can get certain treatments.

Some people worry that companies care more about making money than about patient care.

If you get really sick or need to see special doctors, you might feel more “stuck” in a network with fewer choices compared to Original Medicare or a Medicare (Medigap) supplement plan.


Big Picture:

Medicare Advantage is growing fast because lots of people like the extras and lower upfront costs plus they really market them on television. 

But it’s super important to remember: not all plans are the same — some are awesome and some aren’t so great.

It’s smart to really look carefully at all optins before picking a plan to make sure it covers what you need.


In short:
Medicare Advantage isn’t bad, but it’s not perfect either. It’s just different — like choosing between a homemade sandwich and a fast-food meal. One might be faster and cheaper, but it may not always be the healthiest or best choice for everyone.

Always pick the plan that fits your health, doctors, and future needs best!

Let me know if you’d like help comparing your options — it can get a little tricky, but

Philip Santucci · Answer

Medicare advantage plans are becoming a popular choice for consumers. The numbers are still about 50% for Advantage and 50% for Supplements. Both are great options but at the end of the day what will matter is what will work with each individual situation.

Answered by Philip Santucci on September 22, 2025

Broker Licensed in IL

Answered by Philip Santucci Medicare Insurance Agent

Rachael Metcalf · Answer

No. Not at all. This is a great way to have coverage for those who are healthy, those who have high cost rx and don't want to pay the drug deductible ($590), Silver sneakers, dental, vision or other perks............ so no not at all.

Answered by Rachael Metcalf on May 9, 2025

Agent Licensed in TN, FL, GA & 5 other states

Answered by Rachael Metcalf Medicare Insurance Agent

Anniessa Anderson · Answer

I know it can seem worrying, but I always remind folks: you still have a choice. Medicare Advantage isn’t replacing Original Medicare — it’s just another path. What matters most is finding the coverage that gives you peace of mind and fits your lifestyle.

Answered by Anniessa Anderson on October 30, 2025

Agent Licensed in GA, FL, IA & MI, NC, OH & WV

Answered by Anniessa Anderson Medicare Insurance Agent

David Cranford · Answer

We shouldn't be concerned about the growth of the Medicare Advantage plans. The competition provides innovation and that generates benefits for us. The Medicare supplement plans are starting to do similar things. Everyone wants a piece of the Medicare pie and that means good service and benefits for us all.

Answered by David Cranford on May 5, 2025

Agent Licensed in OK, FL, IL, OH, TN & TX

Answered by David Cranford Medicare Insurance Agent

Irma Lopez · Answer

We should highlight some of the benefits that Medicare advantage plans provide. They are beneficial because Medicare alone doesn’t provide benefits like dental hearing and vision. Some plants include prescription drugs as well. Medicare advantage plans offer a maximum out-of-pocket amount.

Answered by Irma Lopez on October 1, 2025

Broker Licensed in TX, AL, FL, LA, MI & NE

Answered by Irma Lopez Medicare Insurance Agent

Sherita Joseph · Answer

I hear this a lot, and I want you to know you’re not losing anything. Medicare Advantage isn’t ‘taking over’ it’s just another way to receive your Medicare benefits. Some people like it, some don’t. What matters is what works for you. You still have full access to Original Medicare if that’s what you prefer.

Answered by Sherita Joseph on May 5, 2026

Agent Licensed in NC, CO, KY & 7 other states

Answered by Sherita Joseph Medicare Insurance Agent

Amine Amraoui · Answer

The reason it feels like it is, because its affordable, and provides many benefits. 
Supplement plans have monthly premiums that can go up monthly, and you have no dental, vision, prescription benefits. They would have to be purchased separately. Original Medicare has deductibles, and 20% coinsurance,  with no maximum out of pocket cap.

Joseph &quot;Joey&quot; Gutierrez · Answer

Not at all.  And they aren't taking over.  There is a solid blend of Medicare Advantage and Medigap or Supplement plans, as well as those still on A&B only.

Ida Lipnicky-LaCorte · Answer

It’s not concerning it’s very helpful for people who want to go that route. It’s another option and iit could be much more affordable. Everyone makes their own decision based on their personal needs.

Answered by Ida Lipnicky-LaCorte on August 24, 2025

Broker Licensed in NJ, FL, NY, PA & SC

Answered by Ida Lipnicky-LaCorte Medicare Insurance Agent

Marisol Torres · Answer

It can be concerning because Medicare Advantage plans are run by private companies focused on profit, and they can limit doctor choices or require pre-approvals. While they offer extra perks, they’re not always the best fit for everyone.

Answered by Marisol Torres on April 12, 2025

Broker Licensed in IL, CA, FL & 19 other states

Answered by Marisol Torres Medicare Insurance Agent

Jamie Frank · Answer

Take Control & Make Sure You Have The Best Medicare Plan For You & Your Family. Medicare Advantage Plans really work for a lot of my clients.

Lisa Glenn · Answer

Not at all, Medicare Advantage plans offer great benefits, and a lot of your medications are covered, including hospital visits and hospital stays. It also offers extra help for patients with chronic illnesses and rehabilitation. Some also offer dental, hearing, and medical devices. Whereas A & B only offer specific care.

Answered by Lisa Glenn on February 17, 2026

Broker Licensed in GA, AZ, CA & 7 other states

Answered by Lisa Glenn Medicare Insurance Agent

Peter Jannetti · Answer

I believe the plans have gotten better, but Supplemental plans are also very popular.  I’d look at both options before making a decision about your health care needs.

John Hunter Christian · Answer

My main concern is agents or brokers that do not discuss all the different options available for Medicare. Medicare Supplements and Medicare Advantage plans need to be presented as options.

Isn't it concerning that Medicare Advantage plans are taking over the system?

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Isn't it concerning that Medicare Advantage plans are taking over the system?

Agents: Share Your Expertise

Seniors: Ask a Question of Your Own

Related Questions

Agent Locator

Medicare Agents HubA non-government resource website

Medicare Agents Hub
A non-government resource website