Humana Inc. Unveils Key Insights on Supplemental Benefits for Medicare Advantage Beneficiaries
1. Introduction
In a recent press release dated November 20, 2025, Humana Inc. revealed the findings of a comprehensive survey conducted by Humana Healthcare Research, with strategic input from the University of Pennsylvania. The survey, which gathered responses from nearly 6,000 Medicare Advantage beneficiaries utilizing supplemental benefits, sheds light on how these individuals perceive and engage with the additional services provided under their health plans.
2. Survey Highlights
Beneficiary Sentiment on Supplemental Benefits
The survey results are compelling, indicating a high level of appreciation for supplemental benefits among Medicare Advantage beneficiaries. Key findings from the study include:
- High Value Perception: Over 90% of participants agreed or strongly agreed that supplemental benefits can enhance their health and save them money.
- Utilization Satisfaction: Beneficiaries who utilized their supplemental benefits expressed high levels of satisfaction, indicating that these services are not only beneficial but also integral to their healthcare experience.
- Non-Usage Reasons: For those who did not take advantage of available supplemental benefits, the primary reason cited was a lack of necessity during the plan year, rather than barriers to access or awareness of the benefits.
- Improvement Opportunities: The survey highlights areas where health plans can enhance the user experience, particularly in the communication and accessibility of benefits.
Expert Insights
Missy Caple, Vice President of Medicare Product Development at Humana, emphasized the significance of the findings, stating, “We were struck by how deeply Medicare Advantage beneficiaries value their supplemental benefits, which underscores their importance to the health and well-being of our members.” Caple also noted the need for clear communication throughout the beneficiary experience, aligning with the evolving priorities within the Medicare population.
Eric Roberts, an Associate Professor at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, underscored the urgency for policymakers to gain better insights into the usage and value of these benefits. He remarked, “Surveys like this are a key step toward that understanding and lay the groundwork for future studies evaluating their impact on member outcomes.”
3. The Growing Importance of Supplemental Benefits
As of 2025, approximately 54% of eligible Medicare beneficiaries—around 34.1 million individuals—are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan that includes supplemental benefits. These benefits encompass a wide range of services, including dental, vision, and hearing care, as well as non-emergency transportation, wellness programs, over-the-counter medications, and grocery financial assistance.
The survey provides a detailed examination of the most and least frequently utilized supplemental benefits, offering insights into which services are most valued by beneficiaries and exploring the factors influencing the usage rates of specific benefits.
4. Conclusion and Future Directions
The insights gleaned from this survey not only highlight the critical role of supplemental benefits in the Medicare Advantage landscape but also indicate significant opportunities for health plans to enhance beneficiary awareness, usability, and coverage of these offerings. As the Medicare Advantage market continues to grow, understanding beneficiary needs and preferences will be paramount in shaping future policy and service delivery.
For those interested in delving deeper into the survey methodology and findings, the full white paper is available for review, detailing beneficiary responses and outlining opportunities for improvement in Medicare Advantage plans.
About Humana
Humana Inc. is dedicated to prioritizing health for its teammates, customers, and the broader community. Through its insurance services and healthcare offerings via CenterWell, Humana aims to facilitate better health outcomes for millions, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for individuals across various demographics, including Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries.
