A new 2025 survey by eHealth and Retirable has revealed a troubling sentiment among future retirees: 80% of Americans fear Medicare won’t be there when they become eligible. Despite decades of reliability, rising healthcare costs and political uncertainty have cast doubt on the long-term future of Medicare. So, what’s really going on—and should current or future seniors be worried?
Why Do So Many Americans Fear Medicare Won’t Be There?
According to the American Journal of Managed Care, the survey found that:
- 80% of non-enrolled adults doubt Medicare’s long-term availability.
- 76% underestimate how much they’ll spend on healthcare in retirement.
- Only 14% are confident Medicare will meet their personal health needs in 10–20 years.
This growing anxiety is fueled by news about Medicare’s trust fund projections. In its 2024 report, the Medicare Board of Trustees warned that the Hospital Insurance Trust Fund could face insolvency by 2033, just eight years away.
The Reality Behind the Headlines
Despite these fears, Medicare is not “disappearing.” What’s at stake is not the existence of the program but whether it will be able to pay out full benefits. If insolvency occurs, Medicare would still function, but might only be able to cover about 89% of projected costs unless Congress intervenes.
According to Investopedia, most Medicare beneficiaries oppose tax increases or benefit cuts to stabilize the system, which has made reform politically risky. This leaves future funding in a delicate balance.
What’s Driving These Concerns?
- Rising healthcare costs: Many Americans are unprepared for expenses not covered by Medicare, such as dental, vision, and long-term care.
- Political instability: Medicare reform is a hot-button issue. Misinformation and partisan narratives have eroded public confidence.
- Aging population: With over 10,000 people turning 65 every day, the pressure on Medicare’s resources continues to intensify.
How to Prepare—Even If You Fear Medicare Won’t Be There
While it’s unlikely Medicare will disappear entirely, it’s smart to prepare for a future where benefits may be limited or supplemented by personal resources. Here’s how:
1. Understand What Medicare Does—and Doesn’t—Cover
Many people assume Medicare covers everything. It doesn’t. You’ll still face costs like premiums, copays, prescription drug expenses, and care not covered (e.g., dental, hearing aids, long-term nursing).
2. Build a Health Savings Safety Net
If you’re still working and have access to an HSA (Health Savings Account), take full advantage. HSAs offer tax-free growth and withdrawals for qualified medical expenses—even in retirement.
3. Consider a Medigap or Medicare Advantage Plan
These plans help cover costs that traditional Medicare leaves out. Compare benefits annually to avoid overpaying or being underinsured.
4. Use a Medicare Counseling Service
Services like SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Programs) offer free guidance on Medicare choices. They can help you plan based on current law and your personal health outlook.
5. Stay Politically Engaged
Congress controls Medicare’s future. If you fear Medicare won’t be there for you or future generations, contact your lawmakers. Support candidates and policies that strengthen—not privatize or gut—senior healthcare.
Is This Just Political Hype?
According to Managed Healthcare Executive, the fears aren’t baseless, but they also aren’t a reason to panic. Medicare has faced financial cliffs before. In the 1990s, Congress passed reforms to extend its solvency, and similar measures could work again.
Still, the survey highlights a growing trust gap. Seniors and near-retirees want assurance that Medicare will be there, not just for them, but for their children and grandchildren.
The Bottom Line
Yes, 80% of Americans fear Medicare won’t be there. But the program is still strong today, and smart planning can protect you from potential benefit changes down the road. Stay informed, stay vocal, and most importantly—stay proactive.
