eHealth Survey Reveals Concerns Prior to Medicare Enrollment

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eHealth announced the results of a survey focused on Medicare and its upcoming enrollment period.¹ According to eHealth, this year’s enrollment period is expected to be more disruptive than usual, due to concerns of cost increases and changes to benefits.

According to the survey, which included 1,200 respondents, Medicare beneficiaries top three fears are out-of-pocket costs, changes to plan benefits, and prescription drug coverage.

In a press release, eHealth CEO Fran Soistman said, “Many Medicare Advantage and Part D plan enrollees could see significant changes to out-of-pocket costs and core and supplemental benefits in 2025. As our report shows, beneficiaries are worried about the future, not just their ability to pay for the rising cost of their healthcare, but also for the future of Medicare in general. Further, our research shows beneficiaries are overwhelmingly happy with their Medicare coverage and want to see that level of coverage continue without dramatic premium and out-of-pocket cost increases."

Soistman continued, "Earlier this year, eHealth encouraged CMS to consider an extension of this year's Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP). This is a year of great change and with change comes confusion and stress. Several millions of Medicare beneficiaries may be looking for new 2025 plans this AEP. Between regulatory changes, plan and market exits, out-of-pocket cost increases, core and supplemental benefits reductions, and a packed calendar, they're going to need more time to review their options and get the personal assistance that only licensed agents can offer."

Enrollment begins on October 15, 2024. In a separate press release, eHealth announced that it will provide beneficiaries with guidance and help as they review their Medicare plans.² This help will include a variety of digital tools and live agent assistance.

In a press release, Soistman said, “Medicare beneficiaries could face a challenging AEP this year because of significant changes to their current plans, including out-of-pocket costs and core and supplemental benefits. We've focused all our efforts over the past several months to serve beneficiaries better and more effectively in finding the right Medicare coverage for their personal needs and budget. I am particularly proud of the united determination among our employees to make this a successful AEP, both for our customers and the company."

In September, eHealth announced that Prama Bhatt had joined its board of directors. Bhatt also serves on the board for Hormel Foods Corporations.³

In a press release issued at the time, Bhatt said, “I am honored to join the Board of eHealth, a company that is at the forefront of enhancing the health insurance enrollment process through innovative technology. I look forward to collaborating with the Board and leadership team to support the company's growth and to continue developing solutions that empower beneficiaries to make informed decisions about their health insurance coverage."

In the same press release, Soistman added, “We are pleased to welcome Prama to our Board of Directors. Her deep expertise in digital innovation and customer retention and growth strategies will be invaluable as we continue to enhance our digital platform and expand our business. Prama's track record of success in driving digital transformation aligns perfectly with eHealth's strategic priorities, and we look forward to her contributions to our Board."

Sources

1. With Medicare's Annual Enrollment Period Days Away, Higher Costs and Benefit Changes Top Beneficiaries' Concerns. eHealth, Inc. October 8, 2024. Accessed October 11, 2024. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/with-medicares-annual-enrollment-period-days-away-higher-costs-and-benefit-changes-top-beneficiaries-concerns-302269871.html
2. eHealth Is Ready to Help Medicare Beneficiaries Navigate a Challenging Annual Enrollment Period This Year. eHealth, Inc. October 11, 2024. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ehealth-is-ready-to-help-medicare-beneficiaries-navigate-a-challenging-annual-enrollment-period-this-year-302273796.html
3. eHealth Appoints Prama Bhatt to Board of Directors. eHealth, Inc. September 24, 2024. Accessed October 11, 2024. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ehealth-appoints-prama-bhatt-to-board-of-directors-302257382.html