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Survey: Half of Medicare Beneficiaries Have Skipped Medical Care in the Past Year Due to Confusion Over Their Coverage

PR Newswire•08/10/2026•09:00 ET
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Key Highlights

  • ➤48% skipped or delayed medical care due to coverage confusion
  • ➤54% skipped care or prescriptions over out-of-pocket cost concerns
  • ➤62% planning reviews intend to use AI tools comparing Medicare plans
  • ➤71% intend to review Medicare plan options during this fall’s AEP
  • ➤54% of Medigap enrollees are considering switching to Medicare Advantage

Expert Statements

Derrick Duke, CEO of eHealth

“With tens of millions of Medicare beneficiaries reconsidering their plan options during this year’s Annual Enrollment Period, this new research shows many are delaying accessing care due to cost and coverage confusion, highlighting the need for additional support and educational resources.”

Derrick Duke, CEO of eHealth

“The new data show that many Medicare beneficiaries intend to turn to AI tools this year for help reviewing their plan options, yet most beneficiaries say they are more likely to trust advice from a real person.”

Survey: Half of Medicare Beneficiaries Have Skipped Medical Care in the Past Year Due to Confusion Over Their Coverage PR Newswire

Six in 10 intend to use AI tools this fall to help them review Medicare plan options

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