Learn more about Medicare Advantage plans with new benefits for 2027, including prescription coverage changes, supplemental benefits, Star Ratings, plan features, enrollment periods, eligibility requirements, provider networks, deductibles, copayments, out of pocket costs, and important considerations for reviewing updated plan information and understanding potential coverage changes for beneficiaries during 2027.
Medicare Advantage plans with new benefits for 2027 may include important updates to prescription drug coverage, supplemental benefit administration, quality measures, and enrollment processes. CMS finalized several changes for the 2027 plan year, including updates to Part D protections and requirements for certain supplemental benefits. Individual Medicare Advantage plans can continue to differ in benefits, provider networks, premiums, and coverage rules. This guide explains key 2027 changes, what beneficiaries can review when comparing plans, and where to find current information. The article is intended for general information only and does not provide insurance sales, recommendations, or enrollment services.
Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private Medicare-approved organizations and provide Medicare Part A and Part B coverage through the plan. Many plans also include Part D prescription drug coverage and may provide additional benefits. For 2027, CMS has finalized several program and benefit-related changes that beneficiaries may want to understand when reviewing their coverage.
The 2027 Medicare Advantage program includes updates designed to improve plan quality, simplify certain processes, and provide additional clarity around supplemental benefits. CMS finalized changes affecting Special Supplemental Benefits for the Chronically Ill and benefit debit cards.
Important areas to review include:
These changes do not mean every Medicare Advantage plan will offer the same benefits. Plan designs can differ based on the plan and service area.
Prescription drug coverage is another important area of the 2027 updates. CMS finalized provisions that codify several Part D changes associated with the Inflation Reduction Act. These include the elimination of the coverage gap phase, a reduced annual out of pocket threshold, and no cost sharing during the catastrophic phase.
When reviewing prescription coverage, beneficiaries can consider:
Plan documents should be reviewed for the specific drug coverage rules that apply to each plan.
Medicare Advantage plans can provide supplemental benefits beyond the basic Medicare Part A and Part B services. Certain benefits are designed for specific eligible populations, including people with qualifying chronic conditions. CMS's 2027 final rule clarifies eligibility requirements and requires plans to publicly post their plan-developed SSBCI eligibility criteria.
Examples of areas beneficiaries may want to investigate include:
The availability of a supplemental benefit depends on the individual plan.
Star Ratings are used to provide information about the quality of Medicare Advantage and Part D plans. For 2027, CMS finalized changes to the Star Ratings methodology, including removal of several administrative measures and the addition of a depression screening and follow up measure beginning with the 2027 measurement year and 2029 Star Ratings.
When researching plan information, beneficiaries can look at:
Star Ratings are one source of information and should be considered alongside the specific coverage and provider details of a plan.
Benefits and plan rules can vary considerably by location and plan. CMS finalized a 2.48% average increase in payments to Medicare Advantage plans for 2027, but this figure refers to payments to plans rather than an across-the-board change in what individual beneficiaries pay.
Beneficiaries researching 2027 plans can review:
Official plan information is important because benefits, networks, and other details can vary by location. CMS publishes annual Medicare Advantage payment and policy information, while plan materials provide the specific benefits and rules applicable to enrollees.
Checking current information can help beneficiaries understand which benefits are actually available in their area rather than relying on general descriptions of Medicare Advantage.