Medicare Advantage Plan Switching Is Rising

I've noticed a significant trend in the Medicare Advantage landscape: between 2016 and 2022, voluntary plan switching increased across the board, especially among dual-eligible enrollees. Fully dual-eligible individuals saw switching rates rise from about 12% to 22%, while partial dual-eligible beneficiaries went from around 17% to 30%. Other Medicare Advantage members experienced a more modest uptick, from 10% to 13%. Even with this movement, only a small percentage switched back to traditional Medicare by 2022—roughly 4% for fully dual-eligible, 2% for partial dual-eligible, and less than 1% for others. These shifts varied with age, risk level, and race or ethnicity—older beneficiaries typically switched less, while those at higher risk were more likely to move toward traditional Medicare. For anyone reviewing their insurance options, it’s clear that changes in plan features and provider networks are making a real impact. As someone dedicated to helping clients navigate these choices and protect their future, I see how staying informed can make all the difference in finding peace of mind.