Nearly half of beneficiaries don't know the difference between Medicare and MA: survey

The U.S. healthcare system remains complex and inaccessible, leaving many seniors feeling uninformed, according to a new survey from digital health company DUOS.

The new national consumer survey found 49% of respondents did not know the difference between Medicare and Medicare Advantage, and 77% said they are concerned about the well-being of older family members. Though the survey didn’t explore the underlying sentiment, DUOS CEO Karl Ulfers told Fierce Healthcare the survey highlights a personal health literacy issue that gets worse as beneficiaries age.

“To address this gap, a tailored approach that considers the diverse needs and backgrounds of aging adults is necessary,” he said in an email. “Technology is one avenue, presenting faster access to information.”

DUOS’ survey found that 75% of adults aged older than 65 are on the internet, and 61% own smartphones. Six in 10 respondents reported a willingness to use AI-powered tools for health answers. This could prove useful, as 71% of adults report difficulty in using print materials, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Of the respondents, 63% said they are overwhelmed making health decisions, and 47% said they do not know Medicare Advantage’s supplemental benefits. These benefits could “alleviate” some of the burdens with aging, the survey said.

“Digital health solutions should be inclusive, considering the diverse backgrounds and level of digital literacy of the population,” said Ulfers.

More than half of respondents navigate government websites—which are often confusing, fragmented and frustrating for users—for their health needs.

Ulfers believes health plans should embrace partnerships that make the relationship between technology and seniors more simple.

“For older adults, contextual relevant explanations, visual aids and step-by-step guides can help those who struggle with completing complex applications or understanding medical jargon,” he explained.