Open Enrollment Snapshot: 77% of Americans Are Pleased with Their Health Insurance Options for 2026
MWN-AI** Summary
In a recent survey conducted by eHealth, a prominent online health insurance marketplace, it was revealed that 77% of Americans navigating open enrollment for 2026 are satisfied with their health insurance options. This sentiment is particularly strong among Medicare beneficiaries, with an impressive 86% expressing contentment. The research involved over 1,500 participants, examining perspectives on Medicare, employer-sponsored plans, and Affordable Care Act (ACA) coverage.
Despite the overall satisfaction, many enrollees expressed surprise at the rising costs of monthly premiums; 51% indicated they were taken aback by the high expenses, especially among ACA subscribers, where this figure soared to 79%. Coupled with this concern about costs, 57% of respondents believe that the Trump administration is prioritizing the needs of health insurance enrollees.
The survey also highlighted a new trend regarding GLP-1 medications for weight loss. With enhanced accessibility expected next year, 33% of Americans are eager to take advantage of these drugs once prices decrease, and 59% support the administration's efforts to make them more widely available.
In the realm of Medicare Advantage plans, eHealth's data showed an 8% rise in average out-of-pocket maximums, while deductibles slightly decreased. Notably, 86% of these plans were available at $0 monthly premium, the same as the previous year.
Derrick Duke, CEO of eHealth, emphasized the importance of thorough research for consumers to make informed healthcare decisions. With significant cost increases and declining benefits for some plans, it's essential for Americans to compare their options to find the best coverage for their individual needs and financial situations.
MWN-AI** Analysis
The recent eHealth survey reveals that a significant 77% of Americans are satisfied with their health insurance options as we head into the 2026 open enrollment period. This positive sentiment is especially notable among Medicare beneficiaries, with an impressive 86% expressing their approval. However, it is crucial for consumers to navigate the complexities of the current market effectively, particularly given the concerns about rising premiums and out-of-pocket costs.
One notable trend is the increase in out-of-pocket maximums for Medicare Advantage plans, which have climbed by 8% to an average of $6,240, while deductibles have seen a slight decline. This could indicate a shift towards plans offering lower premiums but potentially higher out-of-pocket costs, something consumers must weigh carefully.
Additionally, the willingness of 33% of Americans to engage with GLP-1 drugs for weight loss when discount pricing is implemented could signify a growing acceptance of value-based care. As these drugs may come to play a more prominent role in treatment plans, insurers might adjust their offerings accordingly.
Investors should also note that 56% of respondents expressed interest in utilizing AI tools for health insurance comparison, highlighting a potential growth area for technology-driven health solutions. This presents opportunities for companies leveraging artificial intelligence to facilitate consumer decision-making.
In light of these dynamics, it is essential for individuals to review their existing coverage against emerging options, especially considering the feedback regarding unexpected monthly premiums. As consumers exercise due diligence in their choices, they should also stay informed about potential policy changes and the implications of the Trump administration's proposed healthcare reforms. Overall, while satisfaction levels are relatively high, the market is presenting challenges that necessitate careful planning and research by consumers.
**MWN-AI Summary and Analysis is based on asking OpenAI to summarize and analyze this news release.
PR Newswire
Regarding GLP-1 drugs, 33% of Americans intend to begin taking these medications for weight loss once the Trump administration makes them available at discounted prices next year
57% of Americans say the Trump administration is making the needs of health insurance enrollees a high priority, including 74% of people with Affordable Care Act plans
AUSTIN, Texas, Dec. 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- With open enrollment for 2026 health benefits in full swing, eHealth (Nasdaq: EHTH), a leading online health insurance marketplace, released findings from a new survey showing that most Americans are happy with their coverage options for next year, despite many people expressing surprise with the cost of plan premiums.
When it comes to Medicare Advantage enrollment trends, new eHealth data shows consumers are selecting plans with higher out-of-pocket maximums, while deductibles have declined slightly compared to last year.
eHealth's survey of more than 1,500 Americans highlights opinions from people enrolled in Medicare, employer-based plans, and Affordable Care Act (ACA) coverage, including:
On open enrollment season
- 77% of Americans who have reviewed their 2026 plan choices felt good about their coverage options, with the highest satisfaction among Medicare beneficiaries (86%) and people with employer-sponsored plans (81%).
- 57% of Americans enrolled in ACA plans remain hopeful that enhanced subsidies will be extended by Congress.
- 51% of Americans who have reviewed their coverage options were surprised by the high cost of monthly premiums, including 79% of ACA enrollees.
On Trump administration health insurance policies
- 57% of Americans said the Trump administration "is making the needs of health insurance enrollees a high priority," including 66% of Medicare beneficiaries.
- 59% of Americans support the administration's plan to make GLP-1 drugs broadly available for weight loss at discounted prices.
- 33% of Americans intend to take a GLP-1 drug when discounted pricing takes effect; among these, 68% are willing to pay $100 or more, while 49% are willing to pay $200 or more.
On leveraging AI for health insurance shopping
- 57% of Americans agreed that "in the future artificial intelligence (AI) will make it easier for me to find the best health insurance plan for my personal coverage needs and budget."
- 56% of Americans said they would use an AI tool to find the best health plan for their needs today if it saved them time and money, including 76% of those with ACA coverage and 63% of those with Medicare or employer-based coverage.
Medicare Advantage enrollment trends
An analysis of Medicare Advantage plans selected by eHealth customers in the first half of Medicare's Annual Enrollment period found:
- 8% increase in the average out-of-pocket maximum, rising from $5,760 for 2025 plans to $6,240 for 2026 options.
- 2.8% decrease in the average deductible, declining from $4,225 for 2025 plans to $4,105 for 2026 options.
- 86% of Medicare Advantage plans selected had a $0 monthly premium, compared to 85% last year.
- $5 was the average premium for Medicare Advantage plans, unchanged from last year.
"As Americans make health benefit decisions for 2026, these data highlight the importance of researching the available coverage options and making informed decisions based on personal preferences, health conditions, and financial situations," said Derrick Duke, CEO, eHealth. "While many Americans are satisfied with their coverage options for 2026, many are facing significant cost increases and less rich benefits. To help counteract those trends, it is crucial consumers compare their plan options to make the optimal benefit decision for themselves and their loved ones."
About the survey and Medicare Advantage plan analysis
eHealth's findings are based on a nationwide, general population survey of 1,508 Americans age 18+. The survey was conducted on Nov. 17 and 18 through a national survey vendor. Findings have been rounded to the nearest full percentage point. The sampling error was plus or minus 3%.
Medicare Advantage plan costs and selection data are based on an eHealth analysis of Medicare Advantage plans selected by beneficiaries through eHealth between October 15 and November 8, 2025.
No information relevant to eHealth's financial performance should be drawn from this report. Like other insurance brokers, eHealth is compensated on a fixed per-member basis for Medicare Advantage plans, as regulated by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
About eHealth (NASDAQ: EHTH)
We're Matchmakers. For over 25 years, eHealth has helped millions of Americans find the healthcare coverage that fits their needs at a price they can afford. As a leading independent licensed insurance agency and advisor, eHealth offers access to over 180 health insurers, including national and regional companies.
For more information, visit ehealth.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X. Open positions can be found on our career page.
eHealth media inquiries: pr@ehealth.com
SOURCE eHealth, Inc.
FAQ**
Given that 77% of Americans are pleased with their health insurance options for 2026, what strategies is eHealth Inc. EHTH implementing to maintain or increase this satisfaction level in future enrollment periods?
With 51% of Americans surprised by high monthly premiums, how does eHealth Inc. EHTH plan to address consumer concerns about cost transparency in health insurance plans?
In light of the 57% approval rate for the Trump administration's focus on health insurance needs, how is eHealth Inc. EHTH adapting its services to align with current political sentiments regarding health coverage?
Considering that 56% of Americans would use an AI tool for health insurance options, what plans does eHealth Inc. EHTH have to enhance its technological offerings to meet consumer demand for AI-assisted insurance shopping?
**MWN-AI FAQ is based on asking OpenAI questions about eHealth Inc. (NASDAQ: EHTH).
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