Here’s the simplest setup we can give you: John Oliver’s new Medicare Advantage (MA) explainer covers—in minutes—what would take us days to research and you a long time to read.
It breaks down how MA plans work, why the ads are so pushy this time of year, and what can go wrong when networks are narrow or prior authorization gets in the way.
Watch: “Medicare Advantage: Last Week Tonight with John Oliver (HBO)” (official YouTube upload via the show’s channel). Content warning: The video contains harsh language and a few graphic/NSFW jokes and images.
Remember these important points
- Medicare Advantage is not traditional Medicare. It’s run by private insurers with networks and prior-auth rules that can limit your care. KFF
- It’s open enrollment season (Oct. 15–Dec. 7). Watch first, choose second. Medicare
- More than half of beneficiaries are already in MA plans—and many don’t see the trade-offs until they’re sick. KFF
- Get unbiased help from your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), not a TV broker. shiphelp.org
- Need a human to walk you through your options? Contact your local SHIP for free, unbiased counseling. shiphelp.org
- Networks matter. On average, MA enrollees have access to about half of local physicians compared with traditional Medicare. If you have favorite doctors or a complex condition, verify coverage first. KFF
Attribution: Segment from Last Week Tonight with John Oliver (HBO); coverage timing and context confirmed by LeadingAge and the show’s YouTube posting policy. Enrollment dates and comparisons sourced from Medicare.gov/CMS and KFF.
Smart Senior Daily disclaimer: This article is for general education, not personal medical, legal, or financial advice. Talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or a licensed benefits counselor (e.g., SHIP) before making decisions about coverage.
