UnitedHealthcare maintained its position as the largest Medicare Advantage insurer, with robust enrollment numbers.

Humana and CVS/Aetna also experienced considerable enrollment increases, reflecting sustained trust and satisfaction from beneficiaries.

Emerging players such as Alignment Health, Devoted Health, and Zing Health continued to gain ground by offering innovative benefits and leveraging technology to enhance member satisfaction.

Standalone PDPs continued to experience declining enrollment, consistent with previous years. This is largely due to the growing attractiveness of MAPD plans, which include drug coverage within Medicare Advantage plans.

Advisors should clearly communicate to clients the cost-benefit analysis of maintaining standalone Part D versus shifting to an integrated MAPD.

Prescription Drug Cost Cap: Beginning in 2025, the Inflation Reduction Act introduced a significant regulatory update—a $2,000 annual out-of-pocket cap on Part D prescription drug spending. This new cap will substantially influence plan selections, making comprehensive MAPD plans more attractive.

Enhanced Transparency Requirements: New CMS guidelines effective in 2025 require clearer communication of maximum out-of-pocket (MOOP) costs and prior authorization rules, empowering consumers to better compare plan options during enrollment.

Educate Clients Early: Start conversations before AEP to discuss plan changes, new benefit structures, and the financial impact of the new prescription drug cap.

Personalize Plan Recommendations: Utilize enhanced CMS transparency requirements to guide clients through detailed comparisons of total costs, including premiums, deductibles, and potential out-of-pocket expenses.

Monitor Market Entrants and Innovators: Keep an eye on emerging carriers and plans offering innovative solutions and technologies, as they could align more closely with specific client needs and preferences.