Medicare Advantage News
Latest updates from top health plans and CMS
Recent Medicare Advantage News - February 2026
Stay informed about policy changes, coverage updates, and industry developments affecting Medicare beneficiaries.
What Changes Are Coming to Medicare in 2026?
Source: AARP
The new year brings new Medicare coverage, cost, and policy changes affecting each beneficiary differently. CMS has shut down an Advantage plan pilot program and added limits to a second program. Part B premiums for 2026 increased to $202.90/month.
Medicare Advantage 2026: First Look at Plan Premiums and Benefits
Source: KFF (Kaiser Family Foundation)
89% of Medicare Advantage plans for 2026 include prescription drug coverage (MA-PDs), similar to 2025's 88%. Analysis shows continued strong enrollment in MA-PD plans where enrollees are responsible for the Medicare Part B premium.
Medicare Advantage Coverage Restrictions in 2026
Source: The Motley Fool
CMS has imposed new limits on some Medicare Advantage supplemental benefits in 2026. The changes restrict certain types of coverage that were previously allowed, particularly affecting chronic illness management services.
UnitedHealthcare Requires Referrals for Specialist Care
Source: UHC Provider
Starting January 1, 2026, most UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage HMO/POS enrollees must obtain a referral from their PCP before accessing specialist services in outpatient, office, or home settings.
Medicare Open Enrollment Period (OEP) Now Active
Source: The Motley Fool
The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period runs through March 31, 2026. If you select a new policy in February 2026, coverage will be effective March 1, 2026. Enrollees can switch plans once during this period.
9. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan Mutual Ins. Co.
News updates coming soon for this organization.
10. Highmark Health
News updates coming soon for this organization.
What to Know About Medicare Advantage Plans
- Enrollment periods: Annual Enrollment runs October 15 - December 7
- Plan changes: Many plans update benefits and costs each year
- Quality ratings: CMS publishes Star Ratings to help compare plans
- Coverage: MA plans must cover everything Original Medicare covers, plus more
How to Choose a Medicare Advantage Plan
- Check if your doctors are in-network — Most MA plans have network restrictions
- Review prescription drug coverage — Make sure your medications are covered
- Compare out-of-pocket maximums — This caps your annual costs
- Look at extra benefits — Dental, vision, hearing, fitness perks
- Check Star Ratings — Higher ratings mean better quality and service
Common Medicare Tasks
How to Enroll in Medicare Advantage
- Make sure you have Medicare Part A and Part B
- Compare plans at Medicare.gov
- Choose a plan and enroll online, by phone, or by mail
- Your coverage starts on the first day of the month after you enroll
How to Switch Plans
- During Annual Enrollment (Oct 15 - Dec 7): Switch to any MA plan or return to Original Medicare
- During Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment (Jan 1 - Mar 31): Switch MA plans or return to Original Medicare (one change only)
- Your new coverage starts the first day of the month after your enrollment is processed
How to File a Complaint About Your Plan
- Try calling your plan's customer service first
- If not resolved, file a grievance with your plan (they must respond in 30 days)
- For urgent issues, file an expedited grievance (24-hour response)
- You can also call Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227)
How to Appeal a Denial
- Get the denial in writing — Your plan must explain why they denied coverage
- File an appeal within 60 days — Follow the instructions in your denial letter
- Provide supporting documents — Medical records, doctor's notes, etc.
- If denied again: Request an independent review by Medicare
Important Medicare Resources
- Medicare.gov — Official Medicare website
- Plan Finder — Compare MA plans in your area
- 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) — 24/7 Medicare helpline
- SHIP — Free local counseling from State Health Insurance Assistance Program