Open Enrollment Recap: Americans Who Comparison Shopped Medicare Advantage for 2026 Potentially Saved an Average of Over $1,600 Per Year

Core Insights - eHealth's analysis indicates that Medicare Advantage beneficiaries who compared their 2025 coverage to 2026 plans could save an average of $1,676 annually in out-of-pocket costs [1] - A significant portion of Medicare Advantage enrollees, 48%, are unaware of the Open Enrollment Period, which allows them to switch plans [1] Group 1: Savings and Enrollment Trends - The average potential annual savings for beneficiaries who compared plans was $1,676, reflecting lower out-of-pocket costs for medical care and prescription drugs [1] - The average out-of-pocket maximum increased by 7%, from $5,749 for 2025 plans to $6,153 for 2026 options [1] - The average monthly premium for 2026 plans decreased to $4, down from $5 in 2025, with 88% of plans having a $0 monthly premium, up from 87% the previous year [1] Group 2: Consumer Behavior and Awareness - Beneficiaries supported by eHealth's AI-powered voice agent had a higher enrollment rate (24.8%) compared to those assisted by traditional screeners (22.3%) [1] - A survey revealed that 69% of Medicare beneficiaries seeking to lose weight in 2026 want to use GLP-1 drugs, while 19% are unaware that flu and COVID shots are covered at no cost by most health plans [1] - 22% of people do not know that annual physical and wellness checkups are covered at no cost by most health plans, and 34% are unaware that recommended preventive healthcare screenings are also covered at no cost [1]