As we reach 2024, we can anticipate that Medicare Advantage plans will continue to be one of the most talked about healthcare options in the United States. According to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), Medicare Advantage plans have grown by nearly 60% in the past decade and the trend is likely to continue. In fact, by 2024, experts predict that one in three Medicare beneficiaries will be enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan. This article will provide you with a features of the Medicare Advantage plans 2024.
Telehealth Services:
Telehealth is a service that allows patients to receive medical attention without physically being with their healthcare provider. As technology improves, telehealth services are becoming more prevalent in the healthcare industry. The predictions are that Medicare Advantage plans in 2024 will cover telehealth services like they’re an in-person visit. This will reduce the cost of transportation and prevent elderly people from leaving their homes unnecessarily.
Social Determinants of Health:
Social determinants of health are trends in social and economic conditions that affect a person’s overall health. In 2024, the Medicare Advantage plans are expected to cover more Social Determinants of Health services like transportation, nutrition, and housing improvements, which could significantly limit the number of hospital readmissions from low-income areas.
Health Technology & Wellness Devices:
In 2024, the use of wireless technologies and health sensors is expected to increase. Medicare Advantage plans may cover wellness monitoring and tracking devices. These devices have the potential to decrease doctor visits, decrease prescription drug usage, and enhance personal patient wellness. These devices may include smartwatches, smartphone applications that track any health issues and report data to health practitioners in real-time.
Improved Preventive Care:
Preventive care, including COVID vaccines and regular screenings is essential to maintaining good health. Experts expect to see increased preventive care options for Medicare Advantage Plans in 2024. This increased focus on preventive care is thought to lead to improved health outcomes in terms of the benefits the plan offers, which could include a range from dental benefits to disease management programs that aim to stop certain ailments at its earliest stage.
Cost and Coverage Improvements
A significant advantage of Medicare Advantage plans is that they have a more comprehensive offer of benefits than traditional Medicare options. However, the higher premiums of Medicare Advantage plans could be a barrier for some beneficiaries. Therefore, Medicare Advantage plans of 2024 could have fewer premiums and lower copays for primary care or specialty appointments and other diagnostic tests. It is said that these plans could help the middle-class beneficiaries and lower-income beneficiaries to access better healthcare facilities.
Conclusion:
In 2024, Medicare Advantage plans are expected to have a broader offer of benefits than what is being offered today, making access to healthcare significantly more accessible for many elderly Americans. From preventive care to the latest technology and wellness devices, there is no doubt that Medicare Advantage plans will continue to be an attractive health insurance option for many seniors. In addition, the cost of these plans is expected to decrease, making it more comfortable for seniors to avail the best healthcare services without worrying about the financial burden. So, if you are a Medicare beneficiary looking to access more healthcare services, it is certainly worth exploring whether a Medicare Advantage plan is right for you.
