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MEDICARE ADVANTAGE PLANS IN 2026
- Michael Braden
- 5 days ago
- 11 min read
Michael T Braden January 7, 2026 Medicare Part C
HOW DO YOU FIND THE BEST MEDICARE ADVANTAGE PLAN?
Looking for the highest-rated Medicare Advantage plans for 2026? In this article, you’ll find detailed comparisons to help you choose the right plan for your healthcare needs, highlighting the best options based on star ratings, comprehensive benefits, and member satisfaction. The best-rated Advantage plans have the most extensive networks coverage and positive member experiences.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN INVESTIGATING MEDICARE ADVANTAGE PLAN OPTIONS
Medicare uses a "STAR" Rating System to identify plans that receive the highest ratings for Member satisfaction.
Look for plans with trusted names in the Healthcare industry.
Please don't select a plan just because your friend or neighbor mentions it; do your homework to ensure any plan you consider is the right one for you and your healthcare needs, and that it's available where you live.
Ensure that all your doctors are members of the plan you are interested in.
Verify that all your prescription medications are covered by any plan you consider.
Look at the MOOP, MOOP stands for Maximum Out-Of-Pocket expenses for a particular plan. Your MOOP is the total exposure you have. If/when you reach your MOOP, your plan will cover your healthcare costs for the remainder of the calendar year.
Verify that the hospitals you prefer are in your plan's network.
It is a good reminder for anyone interested in a Medicare Advantage plan to know that they typically only cover you in the county you reside in. Medicare Advantage plans do not travel with you. You can go to an Urgent Care or to a hospital emergency room if you are away from home, but if you need to see a doctor, you will likely have to pay out-of-network rates for healthcare services.
BEST MEDICARE ADVANTAGE PLANS
Medicare Advantage plans, also known as Medicare Part C, are offered by private insurance companies and are all-in-one plans that cover hospital insurance, hospital stays, doctor visits, and medical expenses. Medicare Advantage Plans Advantage plans combine the same basic benefits as Medicare Parts A and B and often include additional services such as vision, dental, or wellness programs.
Most Medicare Advantage plans include Prescription Drug coverage, but not all of them do. This is why many people refer to MA (Medicare Advantage plans) and MAPD (Medicare Advantage plans with Prescription Drug coverage) as All-In-One plans.
They’re designed to offer a comprehensive healthcare alternative to Original Medicare. The best Advantage plans have higher Star Ratings, which are an essential tool for comparing the quality of different Advantage plans.
Selecting the top Medicare Advantage plan also requires evaluating additional factors, such as plan availability, benefits, location, and monthly premiums. These factors help determine whether a potential plan is suitable for the beneficiary.
DID YOU KNOW THAT THERE ARE DIFFERENT MEDICARE ADVANTAGE PLANS FOR DIFFERENT NEEDS
Medicare Advantage plans cater to various healthcare needs, so it is really vital that you choose the best plan that meets your own, specific healthcare and lifestyle needs. The majority of Medicare Advantage plans offer benefits and coverage for services not included in Original Medicare, such as routine physical exams and dental care. This additional coverage can be a game-changer for those who require more comprehensive healthcare services.
Advantage plans generally cover medically necessary services, which are essential for diagnosing or treating health conditions. Elective or non-essential procedures, such as cosmetic surgery or long-term custodial care, are not considered medically necessary and are typically not covered.
For those with Special Needs or beneficiaries with Chronic Heart and/or Kidney Disease, you will always find lower premiums, lower MOOP, and more robust extra benefits, including travel benefits, and lower hospital co-pays by choosing Medicare Advantage SPN (Special Needs Plans) and C-SNP (Chronic Special Needs Plans) plans.
Advantage plans with higher Star Ratings (4+ stars out of 5) often receive quality bonus payments from the government, encouraging quality improvement and allowing plans to offer richer benefits, such as lower costs or extra perks, which, in turn, attract more beneficiaries. Designed to offer superior service and coverage, these plans are ideal for those who prioritize quality and comprehensive care.
MEDICARE ADVANTAGE PLAN TYPES
Advantage plans come in a variety of options, each designed to meet different healthcare needs and preferences.
Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) plans are a popular choice for many beneficiaries. With an HMO plan, you typically select a primary care physician and must use a specific network of providers for your care, except in emergencies. This structure helps keep costs predictable and often results in lower premiums.
Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plans offer more flexibility than HMOs, allowing you to see both in-network and out-of-network providers, which is ideal for those who want more freedom in choosing healthcare providers. However, you’ll typically pay much less when staying within the plan’s network.
Private Fee-for-Service (PFFS)plans let you visit any doctor or hospital that accepts the plan’s payment terms, giving you more control over your healthcare choices, as there is no primary care provider requirement and no referrals needed to see a specialist. These plans also often include additional benefits, such as drug coverage or vision, with costs and premiums varying by provider and location.
Special Needs Plans (SNPs) are in-network plans tailored for Medicare beneficiaries with specific health conditions or financial needs, providing specialized care and targeted benefits for typically lower costs, oftentimes with $0 premiums and copays, making them ideal for managing complex health needs.
With so many options available from private insurers, it’s important to compare the different types of Advantage plans to find the one that best fits your unique lifestyle and healthcare needs.
IMPORTANT ITEMS TO LOOK OUT FOR AND COMPARE WHEN SELECTING ANY MA PLAN
Evaluating the network of doctors and hospitals is critical when selecting a Medicare Advantage plan. The plan’s network determines which doctors and hospitals are covered and directly impacts beneficiaries’ out-of-pocket expenses and access to care.
SIZE AND ACCESSIBILITY OF THE PLANS NETWORKS
Advantage plans with extensive networks offer a wider variety of provider options, ensuring that enrollees have access to the healthcare services they need. Plans with broad networks often offer greater flexibility in referrals and specialist visits, particularly beneficial for individuals with chronic conditions or complex health needs. Choosing a Medicare Advantage plan with a large, diverse network can enhance the quality of care and improve health outcomes for beneficiaries.
COMPARE WHAT IS COVERED IN-NETWORK & OUT-OF-NETWORK
Your costs will always be lower if you use IN-Network providers and visit only IN-Network Care Facilities. Using the in-network Advantage plan generally results in lower out-of-pocket costs than seeking care from out-of-network providers. Accessing out-of-network services often leads to higher costs and reduced coverage.
Medicare Advantage beneficiaries should carefully evaluate their plan’s network to understand which providers and services are covered, avoid surprise charges, and ensure they receive the full range of benefits available to them. If you are unsure, either contact your Broker or call the plan directly.
Lastly, you need to review and compare both the Summary Of Benefits (SOB) and the Evidence Of Coverage(EOC). Note, every MA and MAPD Plan has a 20% Co-Insurance for Chemotherapy and Radiation Treatments for Cancer.
COSTS THAT ARE ASSOCIATED WITH ALL MEDICARE ADVANTAGE PLANS
Money matters, and what you spend out of pocket for healthcare is perhaps even more important for most people than what your plan covers. Healthcare costs should be a big factor when choosing a Medicare Advantage plan.
The providers (Doctors/Clinics/Hospitals/SNFs) set premiums and deductibles, which can vary by location and plan network. Beneficiaries should consider other potential expenses that can vary significantly across Medicare Advantage plans, such as copayments and coinsurance for services like doctor visits, specialist appointments, hospital stays, and prescription drugs.
It’s important to note that while several Medicare Advantage plans feature $0 monthly premiums, these savings are often offset by higher copays or deductibles from the insurance company. Therefore, evaluating the total expected healthcare expenses based on your anticipated medical needs is crucial for determining which plans would fit you best.
PREMIUMS & DEDUCTIBLES
Many Medicare plans offer $0 monthly premiums, making them an attractive choice for many enrollees. However, while these $0 premiums often lead beneficiaries to expect low overall costs, it is important to consider all associated expenses, including deductibles and coverage limits, when comparing plans. Beneficiaries must also maintain their Medicare Part B premium to remain enrolled. This monthly premium is set at $202.90 for 2026.
OUT-OF-POCKET COSTS
Medicare Advantage out-of-pocket spending limits vary by plan. Examining these maximums alongside premiums, copayments, and deductibles is vital when assessing different plan options. These costs can greatly affect your overall healthcare expenses, so choosing a plan that fits your budget and needs is essential.
ADDITIONAL "EXTRA" BENEFITS
Advantage plans frequently include additional coverage for services beyond what Original Medicare covers, such as prescription drug coverage, dental, vision, and hearing care, and fitness and wellness programs.
Many Medicare Advantage plans also include over-the-counter benefits, such as allowances for OTC medications and health products. Emergency care coverage, both within the United States and internationally, is often included as an added benefit in many plans.
PRESCRIPTION DRUG COVERAGE (PART D)
Most Advantage plans integrate prescription medication coverage into the plan itself. This addition ensures that necessary medications are covered, reducing the overall cost burden for beneficiaries. For more details on Medicare coverage for diabetics, including medication, supplies, and prevention programs, see our comprehensive guide.
DENTAL, VISION, AND HEARING BENEFITS
Advantage plans can vary widely in their dental, vision, and hearing care benefits based on the plan provider. Many plans offer preventive dental services such as cleanings and exams, which are not typically covered under Original Medicare. However, the specific coverage details, benefits, and out-of-pocket charges can vary significantly depending on the insurer and particular plan.
GYM MEMBERSHIPS & HEALTH AND WELLNESS PERKS
Most Medicare Advantage plans these days include a gym membership, along with other health and wellness programs. These plans can include coaching, nutrition counseling, and support for chronic disease management. These perks contribute to the overall value of the plans by promoting a healthier lifestyle and helping beneficiaries achieve better health outcomes.
HIGHEST RATED MEDICARE ADVANTAGE PLANS BY STATE
There are well over 4,000 Medicare Advantage plans across the United States. And since Medicare Advantage plans are designed to cover you only in the county you live in, it makes sense that not every plan is available in every county. Leading insurance companies such as Humana, Aetna, and United Healthcare offer some of the highest-rated Medicare Advantage plans nationwide. Humana is known for its broad plan availability, a wide array of supplemental benefits, and low or $0 premiums.
AETNA
Aetna stands out for its comprehensive coverage and additional benefits, such as dental and vision care, which contribute to its high customer satisfaction ratings. Aetna PPO Plans also have interstate coverage in most areas of the country.
UNITED HEALTHCARE/AARP
United Healthcare is recognized for its broad national presence, robust provider networks, and innovations, such as capped drug costs, that significantly reduce members' out-of-pocket expenses.
HUMANA
Robust benefits and a large availability of plans nationwide. The Humana Gold Plans are among the best-reviewed plans nationwide.
When searching for the best Medicare Advantage plan in your area, it’s essential to research and compare the options that are available to you. Look for plans that offer the right balance of coverage, costs, and customer satisfaction. By evaluating the highest-rated Medicare Advantage plans in your state, you can find the one that meets your financial and lifestyle requirements.
STAR RATINGS AND MEMBER EXPERIENCE REVIEWS
Star ratings for Medicare Advantage plans assess quality based on member surveys and provider data, with an average star rating indicating the overall performance. These ratings, provided by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), range from 1 to 5 stars, with 5 stars representing the highest level of quality and member satisfaction.
High star ratings often correlate with better plan benefits, lower out-of-pocket costs, and superior customer service. Beneficiaries are encouraged to consider star ratings as a key factor when selecting a good Medicare Advantage plan, as these ratings provide valuable insights into the plan’s overall quality and reliability.
STRONG CUSTOMER SERVICE AND SUPPORT
Excellent customer service and support are key factors to consider when choosing a Medicare Advantage plan. Many insurance companies understand the importance of helping members navigate their Advantage plans and access the care they need. For instance, Aetna provides a 24/7 customer support hotline and online chat service, ensuring that help is always available. UnitedHealthcare offers a suite of user-friendly online tools and resources, making it easier for members to manage their health insurance and find information about their coverage.
When evaluating Advantage plans, consider the level of customer support each insurance company offers. Responsive service can make a significant difference in your experience, from resolving billing questions to helping you find in-network providers. Choosing an Advantage plan from a company known for strong customer service can give you added peace of mind throughout your healthcare journey.
Lastly, ask any company you are considering where their Call Centers are located. This matters, and in my experience, US-based Member Services are superior to those abroad, such as in the Philippines, India, and Pakistan.
MEDIGAP VS MEDICARE PART C
When considering your health insurance options, it’s important to understand the differences between Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans. Advantage plans, provided by private insurers, replace Original Medicare and often include additional benefits such as dental and vision care, prescription drug coverage, and gym memberships. These plans may offer lower monthly premiums but typically have higher potential out-of-pocket expenses.
In contrast, Medicare Supplement plans are designed to work alongside Original Medicare, helping cover out-of-pocket costs such as deductibles, copays, and coinsurance. While Medicare supplement plans can reduce your share of medical expenses, they do not include extra benefits like dental or vision care, and you’ll still need to enroll in separate plans for these coverages. If you’re interested in switching from Medicare Advantage to Medicare Supplement Insurance, there are specific steps and timelines to consider.
Choosing between a Medicare Advantage plan and a Medicare Supplement plan depends on your individual healthcare needs, budget, and preferences. If you value additional benefits and an all-in-one plan, Advantage may be the right choice. If you prefer the flexibility of Original Medicare with supplemental coverage for out-of-pocket expenses, a Medicare Supplement plan could be a better fit. Be sure to compare the options from various insurance companies to find the best solution for your situation.
PLUSSES AND MINUSES OF MEDICARE ADVANTAGE
Medicare Advantage offers a range of benefits, but it’s important to weigh both the advantages and potential drawbacks before enrolling. One of the main benefits of Advantage is the potential for lower out-of-pocket costs, especially for those who stay within the plan’s network. Many advantage plans also include valuable extras like dental and vision, prescription medication coverage, and fitness benefits, making it easier to budget for your healthcare expenses.
However, there are many limitations to consider. Advantage plans often have restricted provider networks, which means you’ll need to choose from a list of in-network providers to keep your costs down. If you choose to see out-of-network providers, you could face higher out-of-pocket fees. Some plans also require prior authorization for certain services, which can delay care or add extra steps to the process. Remember, you are always at the mercy of your insurance company to approve services and procedures; they are always in control of your healthcare, not you.
By understanding the pros and cons associated with Medicare Advantage, you can make an informed decision and select the plan that best supports your health and financial goals.
MEDICARE ENROLLMENT PERIODS
Picture of Braden Medicare Insurance's Medicare Enrollment Periods Poster.
Enrollment periods determine when individuals can enroll in or change their Medicare plans. These timeframes are crucial for selecting the right plan at the right time, whether you go with Advantage or Medigap.
WRAPPING THINGS UP
To summarize, the best 2026 Medicare Advantage plans offer a range of options that are designed to meet diverse healthcare needs. To make an informed decision about the right plan for you, it is vital that you determine what you want from your Healthcare:
Do you want to travel in retirement?
Do you want to be in charge of your Healthcare choices and decisions, or are you willing to leave that up to an insurance company?
Make sure you are working with an Independent Medicare Broker.
It is important that you can verify that any/all of your doctors are in a plan's network before enrolling in that plan.
With Medicare Advantage, you need to choose a new plan every year. That is a lot of time, and it is also a reason why there are so many complaints from Medicare beneficiaries about getting the runaround from their Insurance carrier to obtain 2nd, 3rd, or even 4th opinions.
Remember that most extra Benefits are not as advertised. For example, $1,000 In Dental Benefits is not actually $1,000 because that $1,000 is divided by four, so your benefit is actually only $250 per quarter, and there is usually no carryover of unused benefits.
CONTACT US
If you have any comments or questions about this article, please feel free to contact me by phone or text at (480) 225-1393 or by email at mike@bradenmedicare.com. You can also learn more about us and reach out to us by visiting our contact page at www.bradenmedicare.com.
