WASHINGTON (September 19, 2012)--Monthly premiums for popular Medicare Advantage insurance plans are rising by only $1.47 next year, to an average of $32.59.

The private plans often can provide the same services as traditional Medicare for a lower out-of-pocket cost, but seniors have to accept some restrictions on choice.

About 12 million Medicare recipients are enrolled in private plans and enrollment is projected to rise by more than 1 million next year.

The news comes after a recent announcement that prescription drug premiums would remain stable for the third year in a row, about $30 a month.

Because the premium numbers are averages, some may see their costs go up.

They can shop for a lower cost plan.