Originally published on 3/20/26

A new report from the Senate Joint Economic Committee (JEC) revealed that Medicare Part B premiums could double in cost over the next decade. In 2026, the average yearly cost of Medicare Part B is $2,200, but according to the report, that number could jump to $5,000 in the next decade. Below, we share why that is and if there are ways that you can save. 

What to know about Medicare premiums​ in 2035

Medicare premiums​—the amount Americans pay for Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)—cover the costs of health insurance. While there is a standard premium cost, the amount varies based on income.

Currently, Part B—which covers doctor visits, outpatient services, lab tests, ambulance services and more—costs about $209 per month, up $24 from 2025. 

According to the JEC, Medicare Part B costs will rise to around $416 a month by 2035 . One reason for the increase? Medicare Advantage overcharges. And now Congress is warning that those costs will keep climbing. 

Medicare Advantage—also known as Medicare Part C—reportedly costs the federal government 120 percent more per person than Traditional Medicare. And when Medicare Advantage costs more than normal Medicare, the prices rise for everyone. 

“Let’s be honest about the math, when Medicare Advantage is overpaid, that money doesn’t just disappear, it shows up in the Medicare Part B premiums seniors pay every month, including those paid by traditional Medicare beneficiaries who are not getting extra benefits,” JEC Chair David Schweikert said in a statement. “Today, between aggressive upcoding, questionable quality bonuses and structural overpayments in Medicare Advantage, seniors who stay in traditional Medicare are effectively subsidizing the system. That’s not sustainable, it’s not fair and it can be reformed.”

Experts agree with that analysis. Alex Beene, a financial literacy instructor for the University of Tennessee at Martin, told Newsweek that when it comes to finding a solution to the increases, “The question is how to do [it] while maintaining the infrastructure designed between Traditional Medicare and Medicare Advantage over the last decade.” 

“These overpayments could add hundreds of dollars to Medicare premiums if these issues continue,” Beene continued. “With inflationary pressures weighing heavily on Medicare recipients, a solution needs to be reached that won’t dramatically increase costs on some of the most vulnerable Americans.” 

How to save on Medicare premiums 

When it comes to saving on Medicare premiums now and in the future, experts agree that the best thing you can do is research which plan is the most cost-effective for your individual needs. 

 “Choosing the right health coverage is essential to saving money and retaining access to quality care. When comparing Medicare coverage options, people should factor in prescriptions, preferred doctors and any chronic conditions they may need ongoing care for–smart choices that can potentially lead to over $1,800 in savings per year,” Whitney Stidom at eHealth, an online health insurance marketplace says. “Medical and financial needs can change over time, and the prescription drugs covered by Medicare plans can also change. Some online marketplaces enable people to provide a list of medications and preferred healthcare providers, and then get recommended plans based on those needs.”

Many seniors also qualify for a chronic special needs plan (C-SNP), which Stidom says can help lower prescription medication costs and offer additional benefits for people with qualifying chronic conditions.

“For example, people with diabetes may qualify for a diabetes-focused chronic special needs plan. These plans can provide improved coverage for blood glucose monitoring supplies or access to lifestyle programs focused on improving nutrition and exercise habits,” Stidom continues. “This additional coverage and support can help translate into lower healthcare expenses and potentially improved well-being.”

Link to original: https://www.womansworld.com/healthcare/medicare-part-b-premiums-could-double-by-2035-how-to-save-money-now