While Medicare Advantage (MA) plans, comprising about 40% of Medicare beneficiaries, report high consumer satisfaction, some of the insurers have come under criticism for allegedly aggressive and misleading sales tactics and failing to provide adequate coverage for beneficiaries. In 2021 the Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) program saw a 24% increase in marketing complaints over the prior year. Complaints are expected to spike like they always do during Open Enrollment. The key is for beneficiaries to educate themselves before enrolling in an MA plan. Each state has a State Health Insurance Assistance Program, or SHIP, that provides free help for people considering their Medicare options. Read a story from Kiplinger.
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