It’s Time to Choose Your Medicare Plan
October 15 – December 7, 2025 is your window for choosing.
Will you stay with Traditional Medicare + Medigap, or switch to a Medicare Advantage Plan?
Ask yourself:
♦ Do I want to see any provider without referrals?
♦ Do I travel or live part-time in another state?
♦ Do I want predictable costs without copays at every visit?
If you answered “yes” to any of these, Medicare Advantage may not be the best fit!
A Physical Therapist Provider’s Perspective Many patients who switch to Medicare Advantage are surprised to face:
♦ Copays for each visit (typically ~$35/session)
♦ Delays due to required referrals or prior authorizations
We often hear: “My Advantage plan feels like a disadvantage.”
Medicare Advantage Growth & Local Concerns Over half of Medicare beneficiaries are now in Advantage plans, largely driven by big insurers and heavy marketing. In New Hampshire, the landscape is shifting:
♦ Harvard Pilgrim is exiting the Medicare Advantage market in 2025.
♦ Many providers have dropped contracts with UnitedHealthcare and Humana due to administrative burden, frequent denials, and low reimbursement.
♦ Even if your plan is active, your preferred doctor, therapist, or hospital may not accept it.
♦ The NH Insurance Commissioner warns parts of the market are “collapsing.”
🔎 Tip: Avoid Medicare Advantage plans from Harvard Pilgrim, Humana, and UnitedHealthcare — many providers no longer accept them. Always confirm provider participation before enrolling.
Plan Comparison
| FEATURE | Traditional Medicare + Medigap | Medicare Advantage |
| Provider Choice | Broad, nationwide | Limited network |
| Referrals | Not required | Often required |
| Travel Coverage |
Excellent |
Often limited |
| Costs | Higher premiums, fewer surprises | Lower premiums, more copays |
| Access to Care | Direct and fast |
Often delayed or restricted |
Changing Plans Later Isn’t Always Easy
♦ Switching back to Medigap after choosing Advantage can require medical underwriting.
♦ Special Enrollment Periods may help, but coverage and costs can vary.
♦ It’s best to choose carefully up front, as going back isn’t always simple or affordable.
Final Thoughts We’ve seen too many patients delay or decline care due to the hidden costs and restrictions of Medicare Advantage plans. While the perks may sound appealing, they often come at the expense of freedom and timely care.
Choose the plan that offers peace of mind, flexibility, and fewer barriers when your health matters most. Feel free to reach out to us at Hampton Physical Therapy with any questions.
