How to Compare Medicare Advantage Plans: 2026 Guide

Overview: Why Comparing Medicare Advantage Plans Matters in 2026

Choosing the right Medicare Advantage plan is one of the most important healthcare decisions you’ll make each year. With hundreds of plan options available in 2026, the right choice could save you thousands in medical costs while giving you access to better care and benefits.

Understanding how to compare Medicare Advantage plans helps you cut through the noise, focusing on what really matters: coverage, cost, and quality.

What Is a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C)?

Medicare Advantage plans are private insurance alternatives to Original Medicare. They include all the benefits of Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance), and most also include Part D (prescription drugs). Many 2026 plans also feature extra benefits like dental, vision, hearing, and wellness programs.

Why It’s Crucial to Compare in 2026

Medicare Advantage plans can change each year — new premiums, updated drug formularies, or expanded benefits. A plan that worked in 2025 might no longer meet your needs in 2026. Comparing plans annually ensures you don’t miss out on new opportunities or get stuck paying more than necessary.

How to Compare Medicare Advantage Plans in 2026

Comparing Medicare Advantage plans effectively means looking at five key areas: coverage, cost, network, medications, and quality.

1. Coverage and Benefits

Look for what’s included in each plan:

• Core Medicare benefits (hospital and medical)

• Prescription drug coverage

• Preventive care services

• Dental, vision, or hearing benefits

• Telehealth and chronic care programs

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is proposing and encouraging broader coverage of remote monitoring (RPM/RTM), expanded behavioral health options, and enhanced preventive care for chronic disease management, pending final rulemaking and plan adoption.

2. Total Costs — Not Just Premiums

3. Provider Networks

Your plan’s network determines which doctors and hospitals you can see.

• HMO plans: Must use in-network providers and get referrals for specialists.

• PPO plans: Offer flexibility to see out-of-network providers (usually at a higher cost).

Before enrolling, confirm your preferred physicians and facilities are covered by the plan’s 2026 network.

4. Prescription Drug Coverage (Part D)

Review the plan’s formulary (drug list) and note the tier and copay for each of your medications.
Even minor drug coverage changes between 2025 and 2026 can affect your total annual cost — especially if you take multiple prescriptions.

5. Quality and Star Ratings

CMS rates Medicare Advantage plans on a 1-to-5-star scale for quality, customer satisfaction, and performance.

• 5-star plans are top-rated and may allow you to switch at any time through a Special Enrollment Period (SEP).

• Ratings are updated annually, so always check the 2026 scores before making a choice.

What’s New for Medicare Advantage in 2026

Each year, CMS and insurers introduce benefit changes. For 2026, expect:

• Lower premiums: The average monthly Medicare Advantage (MA) premium is projected to drop from $16.40 in 2025 to $14.00 in 2026, according to CMS.
• Stable benefits: Core benefits and popular extras — including dental, vision, and hearing — remain widely available.
• Enrollment outlook: Plans project 34 million MA enrollees in 2026, a slight decrease from 34.9 million in 2025. CMS expects actual enrollment to stay stable or stronger based on recent trends.
• Broad access: Over 99% of Medicare beneficiaries will have access to an MA plan, and 97% will be able to choose from 10 or more plans.
• Slightly fewer plans: The total number of MA plans will dip slightly from 5,633 in 2025 to about 5,600 in 2026, reflecting minor market consolidation.

Quick Comparison Checklist

Before you enroll:

1. List your doctors and prescriptions.

2. Compare at least three plans available in your ZIP code.

3. Calculate your total expected yearly costs.

4. Review 2026 CMS Star Ratings.

5. Check network size and provider availability.

6. Call 877-388-1028 TTY 711 Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. ET, for help from a licensed Medicare agent.

When and How to Compare Plans

• Annual Enrollment Period (AEP): October 15 – December 7, 2025

• Open Enrollment Period (OEP): January 1 – March 31, 2026

You can explore plan options through Healthcare.com for personalized recommendations.

Common Comparison Mistakes to Avoid

• Only comparing monthly premiums instead of total costs.

• Forgetting to check whether your preferred doctors are in-network.

• Not reviewing drug coverage tiers for your medications.

• Overlooking annual benefit or formulary changes.

Avoiding these mistakes can lead to smarter, more affordable coverage choices for 2026.

To help narrow down your options, check out our guide to the best Medicare Advantage companies for 2026 and see which insurers consistently deliver top benefits and service.

Bottom Line: Choose the Right Medicare Advantage Plan for 2026

With plan choices expanding in 2026, comparing Medicare Advantage plans carefully can make a significant difference in your coverage and costs. Focus on total value — not just price — and take advantage of expert guidance when you need it.

Use Healthcare.com to discover your options online or call 877-388-1028 TTY 711, Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–8 p.m. ET, to speak with a licensed Medicare agent who can help you find your ideal 2026 plan.