Your Health Care's Being Cut to Fund Tax Breaks?! Here's What to Do

Author: Jordan Miles
Date: Jul 10, 2025
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What if I told you that your healthcare is being gutted—not because of costs, but to make room for billionaire tax giveaways?

That’s exactly what’s happening under the recently passed Trump-backed bill, nicknamed the “One Big, Beautiful Bill.” With over $1 trillion in cuts to Medicaid and ACA programs, this legislation could push 24 million Americans off their health coverage — and the worst part is, you might be next

💸 Why It's Not Just "Other People" Losing Coverage

Whether you're enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan, rely on the ACA Marketplace, or work a gig job with no benefits, this bill could force you into a $15,000-a-year price hike just to keep your health insurance.

Here's who's especially at risk:

Seniors enrolled in Medicare Advantage Plans 2025

Freelancers, gig workers, and the self-employed 

Families relying on ACA subsidies

People on Medicaid, especially in states with expansion

Low-income or transitional households at risk of missing new paperwork rules

📉 What’s Changing in 2025 That Could Hurt You

1. Medicaid Work Requirements 

If you can’t prove 80 hours of work or volunteering per month, you may lose your Medicaid coverage—regardless of your health status. 

2. Shorter Enrollment Windows 

You’ll get less time to sign up for insurance and face tougher eligibility checks every 6 months instead of annually.

3. Cuts to Medicare Advantage 

Federal support for Medicare Advantage Plans in 2025 is shrinking, threatening to reduce services or increase premiums for seniors.

4. Marketplace Subsidy Rollbacks 

The ACA’s affordability shield is cracking. Millions will no longer qualify for financial help, and premiums could rise by $1,500+ a month.

Related article:Gop budget gives to the rich

🧾 The Real Cost of Losing Coverage 

If you: 

Work part-time

Run a small business

Rely on subsidized insurance

Live in a rural area with only 1 or 2 hospital options

You could see: 

$15,000+ in annual out-of-pocket costs

Higher deductibles and co-pays, especially under Medicaid

Lost access to care in communities where hospitals may shut down due to funding cuts 

🛡️ What You Can Do Now to Protect Yourself

👵 For Seniors on Medicare Advantage (2025)

If you're 65+ and enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan, you’re directly in the crosshairs of these budget cuts. Here's what to do:

✅ 1. Review Your Medicare Advantage Plan for 2025—Now 

  • Compare Medicare Advantage quotes early this fall—some plans may increase premiums or drop coverage for dental, vision, or prescriptions
  • Pay attention to changes in Medicare Advantage networks—some doctors and hospitals may no longer be included
  • If you qualify, look into Medicare Savings Programs to help pay premiums, deductibles, and co-pays

✅ 2. Explore Extra Help (LIS) and Supplemental Plans 

  • Apply for Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy) for Part D drug plans if your income is modest 
  • Check out Medigap or Medicare Supplement Insurance if your plan drops key services 

✅ 3. Don’t Delay During Open Enrollment

Mark your calendar: Medicare Open Enrollment runs Oct 15 – Dec 7

Changes from the bill may reduce plan availability—act fast to avoid losing benefits

💼 For Freelancers & the Self-Employed 

If you’re self-employed, a contractor, or a gig worker—you're likely to feel the biggest hit in insurance premiums.

✅ 1. Start Comparing ACA Marketplace Plans 

Log into HealthCare.gov early before shorter deadlines kick in

Check if you still qualify for ACA subsidies — many freelancers will no longer be eligible 

Compare plans that are HSA-eligible—you can save on taxes while building a medical safety net

✅ 2. Look Into Affordable Alternatives

Short-term health insurance: Good as a backup during gaps between jobs

Catastrophic coverage: If you’re under 30 or qualify for hardship exemptions 

Join a Health Sharing Ministry or nonprofit health group (note: not actual insurance but can help lower costs)

✅ 3. Deduct Your Premiums & Set Up Tax-Smart Coverage 

Premiums are often tax-deductible for the self-employed

Contribute to an HSA to reduce your taxable income and prepare for out-of-pocket spikes 

👨‍👩‍👧 For Parents on Medicaid 

Parents on Medicaid face the harshest new barriers: 80-hour work requirements, re-verification every 6 months, and higher co-pays. 

✅ 1. Document Work Hours & Income Now

Keep a monthly log of your work or volunteer hours (at least 80/month)—you may be asked for proof during re-verification

Save pay stubs, tax forms, or gig payment records as backup

✅ 2. Prepare for Frequent Redeterminations 

You may be required to prove eligibility twice a year instead of once

Set a calendar reminder and gather needed documents 30 days in advance

✅ 3. Check Your Kids’ Eligibility Separately

Even if you lose adult Medicaid, your children may still qualify for CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program)

Apply separately and follow up—state portals are often overloaded

✅ 4. Find Local Safety Nets

Contact FQHCs (Federally Qualified Health Centers) or nonprofit clinics that serve low-income families

Search for Medicaid savings programs or local relief grants for parents—many offer temporary help for prescriptions, maternity care, or ER bills

⭐ Compare Your Best Medicare Advantage Options for 2025

If you're a senior or planning for retirement, choosing the right Medicare Advantage plan is more critical than ever. With looming budget cuts and changing coverage rules, you can’t afford to stick with the wrong plan.

Some top-rated providers consistently offer strong benefits and reliable networks. Based on customer satisfaction and CMS star ratings, these are among the best Medicare Advantage providers to consider:

UnitedHealthcare – Largest network, solid dental/vision options

Humana – Excellent customer service and wellness perks

Aetna – Strong value plans with low premiums

Blue Cross Blue Shield – Wide coverage, great in rural states

Kaiser Permanente – High-quality care but only in select regions

Before you enroll, always check: 

Your preferred doctors and hospitals are in-network

Whether drug plans (Part D) are bundled in

Annual out-of-pocket limits and co-pay structure

⚖️ Medicare Advantage vs. Medicare Supplement: What’s the Difference?  

Confused about whether you need a Medicare Advantage or a Medigap (Medicare Supplement) plan? Here’s a quick breakdown:

Feature Medicare Advantage (Part C) Medicare Supplement (Medigap)
Works with Original Medicare? Replaces it Supplements it
Includes drug coverage? Usually Yes (Part D included) No (must buy separately)
Doctor network restrictions Yes – use plan network only No – see any provider who accepts Medicare
Monthly premiums Often $0 to low premiums Higher premiums, fewer out-of-pocket costs
Dental/Vision/Wellness Often included Not included
Best for… Budget-friendly, all-in-one coverage Frequent travelers, those needing flexibility

💡 Pro tip: If you travel a lot or need flexibility, consider Medigap. If you're looking for one bundled plan with extras, Medicare Advantage is your go-to.

🗓️ Medicare Advantage Enrollment Deadlines for 2025 

Timing is everything! Here are the key enrollment periods: 

✅ Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): 

7-month window around your 65th birthday (Starts 3 months before, includes your birthday month, and ends 3 months after) 

🔄 Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP): 

October 15 to December 7, 2024 Choose or switch Medicare Advantage or Part D plans for 2025 

📆 Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment:

January 1 to March 31, 2025 Already in a Medicare Advantage plan? You can switch plans or go back to Original Medicare 

📌 Don’t wait until the last day — some plans change dramatically in 2025 due to federal funding cuts. Review your options as early as October!

🚨 Don’t Wait Until You Get the Bill 

This isn’t theoretical. It’s happening in 2025. And unless you’re prepared, the impact on your health—and your wallet—could be brutal.

Plan in advance for Medicare Advantage Plans 2025

📅 Mark your re-enrollment dates 

💬 Share this article with anyone who relies on Medicare, Medicaid, or Marketplace plans 

Together, we can raise our voices and demand better. Because **billionaires don’t need another tax break—**but you do need healthcare.   

❓FAQs — Your Health Coverage Survival Kit 

Q: Will everyone see higher premiums? 

If you’re not covered by a large employer plan, chances are yes. Independent enrollees and ACA users are most exposed.

Q: Will Medicare Advantage Plans 2025 still offer extras like dental or vision? 

Some might lose perks or increase copays due to funding cuts. Always double-check before open enrollment.

Q: How are rural hospitals affected? 

Over 300 rural facilities could close due to cuts in provider funding — putting seniors and Medicaid users at serious risk.


About Jordan Miles
I'm Jordan Miles, a former caseworker who knows how confusing government programs can be. I simplify financial assistance and benefits so everyday people can easily access the support they need—real advice, no jargon, just clear help to make life easier.

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