As of 2026, Kaiser Permanente’s Medicare Advantage plans consistently earn the highest ratings in J.D. Power’s annual survey, with plans scoring above 4.5 stars on average for member satisfaction and clinical quality.
What are the top 5 Medicare Advantage plans?
Kaiser Permanente, UnitedHealthcare, Humana, Aetna, and Blue Cross Blue Shield lead the top five Medicare Advantage plans in 2026, based on J.D. Power’s customer satisfaction and NCQA clinical quality ratings.
These plans consistently hit 4.5+ star ratings, offer wide provider networks, and throw in extras like dental, vision, and fitness perks. Kaiser Permanente usually wins for member experience, while UnitedHealthcare dominates in market share. Check what’s actually available—and what it costs—in your county, because plan details change from place to place.
What is the most popular Medicare Advantage plan?
UnitedHealthcare’s Medicare Advantage plans serve the largest share of enrollees nationwide, covering about 26% of all Medicare Advantage beneficiaries as of 2026.
UnitedHealthcare’s appeal comes from its massive network—over 1.5 million providers and 6,500 hospitals—and a huge menu of plan types, including HMO, PPO, and Special Needs Plans (SNPs). Their AARP-branded plans are especially recognizable. Want to know which plan is most popular right where you live? Fire up Medicare’s Plan Finder tool.
How do I choose the best Medicare Advantage plan?
Begin by narrowing your search to plans rated 4 stars or higher by CMS or 3.5+ stars by J.D. Power, then compare local costs and coverage.
Head to Medicare’s Plan Finder to see estimated annual costs—premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket maximums included. Hunt for plans that include your go-to doctors, pharmacies, and prescription drugs. Don’t overlook extras like vision, dental, or transportation; those perks can easily save you hundreds. If you’re on the road often, double-check whether the plan covers out-of-network care.
Who sells the most Medicare Advantage plans?
UnitedHealthcare leads with 26% of the market, followed by Humana (18%), Blue Cross Blue Shield affiliates (15%), CVS Health (Aetna, 11%), and Kaiser Permanente (7%) as of 2026.
These five insurers gobble up over 75% of the market. Smaller players like Centene and Cigna hold just 4% and 2%, respectively. Bigger market share doesn’t always mean better quality—some regional insurers punch above their weight locally. Always weigh star ratings and member reviews against market share numbers before you decide.
Why do doctors not like Medicare Advantage plans?
Many doctors gripe about the extra paperwork with private insurers, including prior authorization delays and lower reimbursement rates than Original Medicare.
Some physicians also say Medicare Advantage networks limit access to certain specialists or require referrals for out-of-network care. These hurdles can drag down care coordination and stretch wait times. That said, experiences vary wildly—some doctors work smoothly with well-run plans. Before you sign up, ask your doctor which Medicare Advantage plans they take.
Do doctors prefer HMO or PPO?
Generally, doctors join more PPO networks because they offer broader access without referral requirements.
PPO plans usually include 10–20% more providers than HMOs, giving patients more choice and cutting down on paperwork for doctors. HMOs, though, often come with lower out-of-pocket costs and tighter care coordination. Your best bet depends on your health needs and whether your favorite doctors are in the network. Always peek at the plan’s provider directory before enrolling.
Is Medicare Advantage a ripoff?
Medicare Advantage plans aren’t automatically a ripoff, but critics argue that overpayments to private insurers waste taxpayer money—estimated at $27 billion per year as of 2026.
Supporters point to lower out-of-pocket costs and extras like vision or fitness programs. Critics counter that government spending per beneficiary runs higher than Original Medicare. The real answer? Well-rated plans with low costs and solid networks can deliver real value, while poorly managed ones can spring surprise bills. Always check a plan’s star rating and financial health before you commit.
What is the difference between Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage plans?
Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans wrap around Original Medicare to cover gaps like copays and deductibles, while Medicare Advantage plans replace Original Medicare with a private bundled alternative.
With Medigap, you keep Original Medicare and layer on a secondary policy. With Medicare Advantage, you get Parts A, B, and often D through a private insurer. Medigap won’t cover prescriptions—you’d need a separate Part D plan. Medicare Advantage often bundles drug coverage and extra perks. Costs and flexibility differ sharply: Medigap charges higher premiums but fewer restrictions, while Medicare Advantage usually has lower premiums but tighter provider networks.
What is the average cost of Medicare Advantage plans?
The average premium for a Medicare Advantage plan in 2026 is $20 per month, though many plans cost $0 and some top $100 depending on coverage and location.
On top of the premium, you still owe your Medicare Part B premium—$174.70 per month in 2026. Many $0-premium plans offset costs with government subsidies, but they may hit you with higher copays or deductibles. When you compare plans, tally up the total estimated costs—premiums plus expected copays for your usual care—not just the sticker price.
Is Original Medicare better than Medicare Advantage plans?
Original Medicare gives you nationwide access without network limits, while Medicare Advantage can lower your out-of-pocket costs and add extras but comes with network rules.
With Original Medicare, you can see any doctor or hospital that takes Medicare, anywhere in the country, no referrals needed. Medicare Advantage plans often throw in vision, dental, and fitness benefits Original Medicare skips. The trade-off? Advantage plans may lock you into a specific network and require referrals for specialists. If you travel a lot or split time between states, Original Medicare might be simpler. If you want predictable copays and bonus perks, Medicare Advantage could be the better fit. Use Medicare’s Plan Finder to run the numbers.
Can you be turned down for a Medicare Advantage plan?
No—you can’t be denied enrollment in a Medicare Advantage plan if you’re eligible for Original Medicare (Parts A and B), though some plans may have limited availability in your county.
Medicare Advantage plans must accept all applicants during the Annual Election Period (October 15–December 7) and Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment (January 1–March 31). Outside those windows, plans can limit new sign-ups based on health status—especially for Special Needs Plans (SNPs). If you’re applying between enrollment periods, check the plan’s rules or wait for the next window.
Do you still pay Medicare Part B with an Advantage plan?
Yes—you still pay your Medicare Part B premium ($174.70 per month in 2026) even after enrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan.
Your Medicare Advantage plan steps in for Parts A and B coverage, but Part B stays your responsibility. Some Advantage plans include a “give-back” benefit that lowers your Part B premium by up to $90 per month, depending on the plan and where you live. Just confirm the exact give-back amount with the insurer—it doesn’t always apply to everyone.
Do Medicare Advantage plans have to cover everything Medicare covers?
Medicare Advantage plans must cover every service that Original Medicare covers except hospice care, which stays under Original Medicare.
They also cover emergency and urgent care nationwide, even if you’re outside your plan’s service area. Many plans add routine dental, vision, hearing aids, and fitness programs. Prescription drug coverage is baked into most plans. Just remember: Advantage plans can use different approval rules, referral requirements, and network limits. Always read the plan’s Evidence of Coverage for the fine print.
Does Blue Cross Blue Shield have a Medicare Advantage plan?
Yes—Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) affiliates sell Medicare Advantage plans in most states as of 2026.
BCBS offerings vary by state and often include HMO, PPO, and Special Needs Plans. Many BCBS Advantage plans bundle prescription drug coverage, or you can pair a standalone Part D plan with Original Medicare. See what’s available near you with Medicare’s Plan Finder tool and filter for BCBS-affiliated options. BCBS is known for strong networks and solid customer service, but quality and costs differ by location.
Is scan a good Medicare Advantage plan?
SCAN Health Plan’s Medicare Advantage options are highly rated in California, earning 4.5 stars from CMS for four straight years as of 2026.
SCAN shines in customer service and member satisfaction, with a focus on senior care and chronic condition management. Its plans often include dental, vision, hearing, and wellness perks. The catch? SCAN only operates in California and a handful of other states. If you live in CA, SCAN’s strong ratings and member benefits make it a solid pick. Still, run a quick comparison with other local options using Medicare’s Plan Finder.
