Choosing a Medicare Advantage plan without shopping around can cost you hundreds — or even thousands — of dollars every year. According to eHealth’s latest research, enrollees who compared Medicare Advantage plans in 2025 potentially saved an average of $1,600 per year, or roughly $140 per month. That kind of savings is too significant to ignore. Yet many beneficiaries simply re-enroll in their existing plan without exploring better options.
Smart comparison shopping is not just for cars or groceries. It works just as powerfully for Medicare Advantage — and the tools to do it are free, fast, and easy to use.
What Is Medicare Advantage?
Medicare Advantage, also called Part C, is an alternative to Original Medicare offered through private insurance companies. By law, every Medicare Advantage plan must cover everything that Original Medicare (Parts A and B) covers. Moreover, most plans go further by bundling prescription drug coverage (Part D) into a single plan.
Extra Benefits Beyond Original Medicare
Many Medicare Advantage plans also include benefits that Original Medicare does not offer, such as:
- Dental, vision, and hearing coverage
- Transportation assistance
- Over-the-counter allowances
- Wellness programs and gym memberships
These added perks make Medicare Advantage an attractive option for millions of seniors who want comprehensive coverage at a manageable cost.
How Comparison Shopping Saves You Money
Think of shopping for Medicare Advantage the way you shop for car insurance. Multiple providers offer competing rates and coverage levels. Therefore, comparing options side by side allows you to find the plan that best fits your health needs and budget.
eHealth’s internal data shows that people who actively compared plans before enrolling saved significantly more than those who did not. With an average savings of $1,600 per year, even spending just a few hours comparing plans pays off substantially.
What to Compare When Evaluating Plans
When you compare Medicare Advantage plans, focus on these key factors:
- Monthly premiums — Many plans are available at $0 additional premium beyond Medicare Part B
- Deductibles and copays — These vary widely between plans
- Network of doctors and hospitals — Confirm your preferred providers are in-network
- Prescription drug coverage — Look at copays, formularies, and tier structures
- Star ratings — The government rates each plan on up to 40 quality measures using a 5-star scale
Key Enrollment Deadlines to Know
Knowing when you can enroll or switch plans is critical. Missing a deadline could lock you into a plan that no longer serves your needs.
Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)
The main window to enroll in or switch Medicare Advantage plans runs from October 15 through December 7 each year. During this period, you can compare all available plans in your area and make a switch that takes effect January 1.
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (OEP)
Many enrollees are unaware of the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period, which runs from January 1 through March 31. During this time, current Medicare Advantage members can switch to a different Medicare Advantage plan or return to Original Medicare. This is a valuable second chance for anyone who feels their current plan is not meeting their needs.
Medicare Advantage vs. Original Medicare
Understanding the differences between Medicare Advantage and Original Medicare helps you make an informed choice.
Original Medicare allows you to see any doctor or provider that accepts Medicare anywhere in the country. In contrast, Medicare Advantage plans operate through HMO or PPO networks, similar to employer-sponsored health insurance.
HMO vs. PPO Plans
- HMO plans typically require you to use in-network providers and may need a referral to see a specialist. However, they often come with lower premiums.
- PPO plans offer more flexibility, allowing out-of-network care at a higher cost. They generally do not require referrals.
For many enrollees, the trade-off between network restrictions and lower cost — plus added benefits — makes Medicare Advantage the preferred option.
How to Use Online Tools to Compare Plans
Comparing Medicare Advantage plans has never been easier. Several free online tools allow you to review options side by side without pressure or obligation.
eHealth (ehealth.com) lets you compare plans based on deductibles, copays, network providers, and drug coverage. You simply enter your doctors and prescriptions, and the platform filters plans based on your specific needs.
Additionally, Medicare.gov provides a government-run plan comparison tool. Your local State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) offers free, unbiased counseling as well.
Tips for Getting the Most From Comparison Tools
- Enter your specific medications to see accurate drug cost estimates
- Add your preferred doctors to check in-network status
- Filter by star rating to prioritize high-quality plans
- Compare total annual costs, not just monthly premiums
Prescription Drug Coverage Under Medicare Advantage
Prescription costs are a major concern for most Medicare beneficiaries. Fortunately, Medicare Advantage plans typically include Part D drug coverage. Furthermore, federal Medicare rules that reduce prescription costs apply equally to Medicare Advantage plans.
As a result, many Medicare Advantage enrollees enjoy $0 copays on certain medications. For those who prefer to keep Original Medicare, a standalone Part D plan remains an option — though it adds a separate premium and plan to manage.
Start Comparing Today
With the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period running through March 31, now is the right time to act. Beneficiaries in most areas have access to 40 or more plans to choose from, which means the right fit is likely out there — you just need to look.
Comparison shopping is one of the simplest, highest-return financial decisions a Medicare beneficiary can make. Even switching to a plan that saves $140 per month adds up to $1,680 in annual savings — money that stays in your pocket.
