Medicare Advantage (Part C) is a private plan that replaces Original Medicare for hospital and doctor coverage. For 2027, the choices are shifting. Here’s what to know.
You’ll have fewer plans to choose from
The average Medicare beneficiary can pick from 28 Medicare Advantage plans with drug coverage in 2027. Only 20% of people have more than 40 options, down from 27% in 2026 (KFF).
Short on time? Book a free 30-minute Medicare check-up and we’ll do the comparing for you.
Some insurers are leaving your county
UnitedHealth Group, Humana, Centene, and Health Care Service Corporation are each leaving many counties, while Devoted Health is expanding (KFF). If your plan is ending, read our guide on what to do if your plan is leaving.
More Special Needs Plans
Insurers are adding Special Needs Plans (SNPs) for people with chronic conditions or with both Medicare and Medicaid. UnitedHealthcare, for example, is cutting 34 PPOs and adding 40 SNPs for 2027 (Becker’s).
New rules for benefit debit cards
Many plans give a card for extras like groceries or over-the-counter items. Starting in 2027, those cards must be linked to covered items in real time and are limited to the plan year (CMS). Use your balance before December 31.
Star Rating changes
CMS removed 11 Star Rating measures and kept its long-standing reward for consistently high performance (CMS). A plan’s stars can change year to year, so check the 2027 rating.
Don’t forget Part B
Every Medicare Advantage member still pays the Part B premium. It’s $202.90 a month in 2026, and the 2027 amount is projected at $209.50 until Medicare announces it (Government Executive).
Key Medicare dates
- October 15 to December 7: Annual Enrollment Period. Changes start January 1
- Missed it? Most people can’t change plans again until next fall, unless they qualify for a special enrollment period
Quick answers
Will my plan renew automatically?
Usually yes, unless your insurer stops offering it. But even if it renews, your costs and network can change January 1.
What’s the most important thing to check?
Your doctors and prescriptions. Then the maximum out-of-pocket.
Not sure if your Medicare plan still fits?
Book a 30-minute Medicare check-up. A licensed agent reviews your doctors, prescriptions, and costs, then tells you plainly whether to stay or switch. No cost and no obligation.
Book My Medicare Check-Up or call (786) 730-9658
Prefer to read first? Download the 2027 Medicare Check-Up Checklist.
Related guides
- Medicare Advantage vs. Medigap: which is right for you?
- Top 5 Medicare myths debunked
- How to avoid Medicare late enrollment penalties
- Medicare Part D 2027: the $2,400 cap explained
Sources
- KFF: Medicare Advantage plan availability for 2027
- Becker’s Hospital Review: Medicare Advantage for 2027
- CMS: Contract Year 2027 Medicare Advantage and Part D Final Rule
- Government Executive: 2027 Part B premium projection
- Anthem: Medicare Advantage enrollment periods
We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent 4 organizations which offer 57 products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options. Simple Start Insurance is a licensed and certified representative of Medicare Advantage organizations and stand-alone prescription drug plans. Each of the organizations we represent has a Medicare contract. Enrollment in any plan depends on contract renewal. Not affiliated with or endorsed by any government agency. This article is general information.
