Tech Savvy Seniors Gear Up For Medicare Annual Enrollment
MEDICARE COVERAGE & ANNUAL ENROLLMENT PERIOD (AEP)
As the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), also known as open enrollment kicks-off, 84% of seniors said they are confident that they are enrolled in the right Medicare plan. Seniors are so sure about their plans that 70% have never adjusted their Medicare coverage in years past. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has many Americans taking a closer look at their healthcare plans. 15% of seniors said they are likely to change or adjust their Medicare coverage, with an additional 34% still undecided about making a change during this open enrollment period.
When asked about what is most important when selecting a plan; 44% said a plan that accepts their doctor(s), followed by 27% who said low monthly premiums and copays are most important. 61% of seniors prefer to surf the internet to get information about Medicare plans and coverage. More than half said it's not difficult to find the right information about which Medicare plan is right for them, with 24% consulting with family and friends.
However, seniors are also skeptical, with 68% saying they don't trust online services that promise to help find the best Medicare plan.
MANAGING MEDICAL COSTS
Out-of-pocket costs are a major concern for most seniors. 82% think prescription drug prices are too high. Sadly, 54% are worried about contracting COVID-19 because of the cost of care.
EMBRACING TELEMEDICINE DURING COVID-19
Seniors are embracing technology and adapting during COVID-19. The survey revealed a 716% spike in telemedicine usage among seniors on Medicare during the pandemic. 49% reported using telemedicine during the past seven months with 1 in 4 using it more than once. 36% prefered to use their smartphones for these appointments. It looks as though telemedicine is here to stay, with 42% saying they will continue to use it on a regular basis when the pandemic is over.
SILVER TECHIES
Seniors are not shying away from using the same technology their kids and grandkids use. 39% admit to binge-watching a streaming service; 76% text and 35% have video chatted with children and/or grandchildren within the past month. However, they aren't totally sold on cutting the cord; 60% watch cable news regularly.
A majority of seniors are hitting the "like" button; 71% said they use Facebook at least once a week, with 52% admitting to going on Facebook daily. However, with all these digital technologies available, 73% are worried about protecting their privacy.
2020 ELECTION
When asked about the upcoming election, 49% said the
For the entire survey results click here.
For more information on Medicare open enrollment please visit the Consumer Guide to the Medicare Open Enrollment Period.
METHODOLOGY:
The survey of 1,000
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FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS:
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SOURCE healthinsurance.com
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