A new study finds that the average Medicare beneficiary has access to 28 Medicare Advantage plans in 2020 an increase from 18 in 2015 according to a presentation by the Association for Medicare Supplement Insurance (AAMSI).

The information comes from a report released by the Henry Kaiser Family Foundation that examined the number of Medicare Advantage plans available to beneficiaries between the time periods 2010 and 2020.

"The good news is there are more options for 2020 but comparing all your choices can be difficult especially during Medicare Annual Enrollment which began October 15, 2019," explains Jesse Slome, AAMSI's director.  "There are more ads on television urging seniors to call one company or another for information and that's good because now is the time that millions of Americans must act to make a decision regarding their coverage for the coming year."

"Plans differ, what you pay can differ quite considerably and for that reason we believe it benefits seniors to consult with local professionals who know the local plans that are available," Slome recommends.

The Association hosts the leading national online directory where consumers can find local Medicare insurance professionals across all 50 states.  To access the Local Medicare Insurance Agent directory go to www.medicaresupp.org.

"These professionals will help you compare your options all without any cost or obligation to buy," Slome notes.  "But, during Medicare Annual Enrollment their schedules get booked early so it is very important to connect well before the time frame ends on December 7th."

The American Association for Medicare Supplement Insurance is an advocacy and informational organization that conducts the national Medigap industry conference, hosts the nation's leading Find A Local Medicare Agent online directory, conducts and publishes studies and supports insurance professionals who offer Medigap coverage.