The Best Medicare Advantage Plans of 2024: Our Favorite Providers
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August 23, 2024
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Medicare Advantage Plans are growing in popularity, and it's no surprise. With the costs of everything rising, these plans can not only help lower healthcare costs, but they can also provide additional benefits beyond Original Medicare, including dental, vision, and other services.
Medicare Part C Medicare Advantage Plans include your Medicare Part A, Part B, and, in many cases, Part D benefits in an easy-to-use solution. These plans have lower premiums and predictable copays for most healthcare services. Another advantage over Original Medicare is that Medicare Advantage plans limit your annual out-of-pocket costs for medical services.
Below, we'll go over the plans that we feel are the best Medicare Advantage plans available for 2022.
Pro Tip: To learn more about the ins and outs of Medicare Advantage, read our guide to Medicare Advantage.
Best Medicare Advantage Plans Ranked
- Humana : Best Extra Benefits
- Cigna : Low Premiums
- UnitedHealthcare : Best Over-the-Counter Benefits
- Wellcare : Flexible Spending Allowances
- Aetna : Best Online Services
- Blue Cross Blue Shield : Most Trusted by Doctors
- AARP Medicare : Nation’s Largest Nonprofit
- Anthem : Most Flexible Care Options
- Kaiser Permanente : Easiest Access to Care
Medicare Advantage Providers Compared
| Provider | Service Area | Standout benefits |
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| Humana | 49 states |
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| Cigna | 26 states and Washington, D.C |
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| UnitedHealthcare | 49 states and Washington, D.C. |
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| Wellcare | 36 states |
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| Aetna | 49 states and Washington, D.C. |
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| Blue Cross Blue Shield | 47 states |
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| AARP | 49 states and Washington, D.C |
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| Anthem | 7 states |
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| Kaiser Permanente | 8 states and Washington, D.C. |
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Humana - Best Extra Benefits
What We Like Most:
- Wide range of plans offered
- 24/7 customer service
- Vision and dental add-ons available
- High-deductible plan options
Plans Offered
- Health maintenance organization (HMO)
- Health maintenance organization, point of service (HMO-POS)
- Preferred provider organization (PPO)
- Private fee for service (PFFS)
- Special needs plans (SNPs)
Service Area
Humana provides access to Medicare Advantage plans in 49 states.
Overview
Humana is one of the top providers of Medicare Advantage plans throughout the continental United States. They put extra care into customer service and offer various Medicare Advantage plan options. Humana is also a financially sound company with an AM Best rating of A-.
They provide access to gym memberships through SilverSneakers and have significant plan extras to help Medicare beneficiaries. Many of their plans have insulin-saving programs for their diabetic members.
They offer a 24/7 nurse hotline and a handful of other benefits, such as over-the-counter allowance, health food card, transportation, and dental benefits.
Humana provides incentives for living healthy through its Go365 program. This program helps to reward its members for taking advantage of plan benefits to help them stay healthy.
To learn more about Humana, be sure to check out our full review of Humana Medicare Advantage.
Pros
- Customer service based in the U.S.
- In many areas, they have multiple $0 premium plans
- Go365 incentive programs for members
- Comprehensive dental benefits on most plans
Cons
- No coverage for dental implants
Cigna - Low Premiums
What We Like Most:
- Large range of plans
- Coverage for people with preexisting conditions
- Foreign travel emergency coverage available
- Skilled nursing facility coinsurance available
Plans Offered
- Health maintenance organization (HMO)
- Health maintenance organization, point of service (HMO-POS)
- Preferred provider organization (PPO)
- Private fee for service (PFFS)
- Special needs plans (SNPs)
Service Area
Cigna offers Medicare Advantage plans in 26 states and Washington, D.C.
Overview
Cigna is one of the oldest insurers in the nation. They strive to deliver a great customer experience. However, it has some of the lowest star ratings on average. In addition to their Medicare Advantage plan offerings, Cigna provides access to other insurance products as well.
Cigna’s additional products include life, dental, vision, and hearing coverage, along with stand-alone Part D prescription coverage. They also provide critical illness, cancer, and hospital indemnity plans. They have several plans that participate in the insulin savings program, the Senior Savings Model.
Cigna is also a strong contender in the Medicare supplement health insurance space, offering these plans in nearly every state.
To learn more about this provider, be sure to check out our full rundown of Cigna Medicare Advantage.
Pros
- Good customer satisfaction ratings
- Low-premium plan options
- Financially sound company
- Dental benefits
- Lower drug costs
Cons
- Low star ratings
UnitedHealthcare - Best Over-the-Counter Benefits
What We Like Most:
- Numerous in-network providers
- All ages accepted
- Cheap copays for routine care
- Simple plan options
What We Like Most
- OTC benefits available for use in retail settings
- Endorsed by AARP
- Dental and hearing benefits
- Renew Active wellness program
Plans Offered
- Health maintenance organization (HMO)
- Health maintenance organization, point of service (HMO-POS)
- Preferred provider organization (PPO)
- Private fee for service (PFFS)
- Special needs plans (SNPs)
Service Area
UnitedHealthcare provides Medicare Advantage Plans in 49 states and Washington, D.C.
Overview
UnitedHealthcare is the largest provider of Medicare health insurance in America. Their plan offerings include Part C Medicare Advantage, Medicare supplement, and Part D prescription drug plans. UHC is endorsed by AARP and has a financial rating of A- from AM Best.
They have some unique advantages for their over-the-counter benefit that allows their members to use the benefit not only in a retail location, but also for health food purchases.
Many of their competitors have a lower food allowance and require OTC benefits to be mail ordered for delivery.
To learn more about UnitedHealthcare, read our guide to UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage.
Pros
- Renew Active wellness program
- OTC can be used in-store and for food
- AARP endorsement
- Dental and hearing benefits
Cons
- Fewer plan extras than other companies
Wellcare - Flexible Spending Allowances
What We Like Most:
- Refunds for Part B premiums
- Extra benefits for those with chronic conditions
- Flexible spending cards for hearing, dental, and vision
- Good financial strength
Plans Offered
- Health maintenance organization (HMO)
- Health maintenance organization, point of service (HMO-POS)
- Preferred provider organization (PPO)
- Private fee for service (PFFS)
- Special needs plans (SNPs)
Service Area
Wellcare provides access to Medicare Advantage plans in 36 states.
Overview
For those in need of coverage beyond that of Original Medicare, Wellcare offers a variety of plans that offer some of the best benefits of any provider. In particular, we appreciate their Flex Card system, which preloads a Visa gift card with up to $2,500 that can be spent on vision, dental, and hearing services.
Wellcare also offers over-the-counter benefits, which can provide reimbursement for over-the-counter medications, as well as free meal delivery and fitness membership on some of their plans.
While Wellcare received low scores on J.D. Power’s survey in terms of customer satisfaction, their extra benefits make them a compelling option to consider, especially considering many of their Medicare Advantage plans come with $0 monthly premiums, as well the potential for Part B premium reimbursement.
Pros
- Flex Card spending benefits
- Telehealth services included
- Free annual fitness memberships
- $0 premiums on some plans
- Meal delivery services
Cons
- Not offered everywhere
Aetna - Best Online Services
What We Like Most:
- Five plans to choose from
- Additional benefits for plan members
- No network restrictions
- Keep your coverage even if you move
Plans Offered
- Health maintenance organization (HMO)
- Health maintenance organization, point of service (HMO-POS)
- Preferred provider organization (PPO)
- Private fee for service (PFFS)
- Special needs plans (SNPs)
Service Area
Aetna provides Medicare Advantage plans in 49 states and Washington, D.C.
Overview
Aetna has one of the most robust provider networks in the industry, and their PPOs stand out for the ability to be seen as in-network when traveling outside of the service area. Their doctor finder tool is easy to navigate, making this feature extremely simple and valuable.
Aetna is one of the few Medicare Advantage providers that cover dental implants. They have great dental benefits included in almost all of their plans. Aetna is part of the CVS Health family and maintains an AM Best rating of A+.
In addition to their Medicare Advantage plans, Aetna also provides access to Medigap insurance plans and offers Part D prescription drug plans through their SilverScript brand.
Pros
- Access to dental implants on select plans
- Robust provider network
- In-network providers, even when traveling
- Dental included in nearly every Medicare Advantage plan
Cons
- Non-U.S. customer service
To learn more about Aetna, read our guide to Aetna Medicare Advantage plans.
Blue Cross Blue Shield - Most Trusted by Doctors
What We Like Most:
- Some select plans available
- In-network options
- Budget-friendly plans available
- Plans A, B, C, D, F, G, K, L, M, and N offered
Plans Offered
- Health maintenance organization (HMO)
- Health maintenance organization, point of service (HMO-POS)
- Preferred provider organization (PPO)
- Private fee for service (PFFS)
- Special needs plans (SNPs)
Service Area
Blue Cross Blue Shield provides Medicare Advantage plans in 47 states.
Overview
Blue Cross Blue Shield is one of the most trusted names in the insurance industry. They have 34 different affiliates that split the United States into territories. They have an excellent customer satisfaction rating, and most of their plans earn 4 stars on a 5-star rating system.
Blue Cross Blue Shield offers all varieties of Medicare coverage. Their plan offerings include Medicare Advantage, Medicare supplemental insurance, and Part D prescription drug plans.
They offer the MyBlue Medicare concierge service to help the members navigate and understand Medicare. Blue Cross Blue Shield members also have access to the Blue Rewards program that incentivizes members to practice healthy behaviors.
Pros
- Trustworthy name
- MyBlue Concierge program for navigating Medicare
- Monthly seminars focusing on wellness
- Discounts on items related to eyewear and fitness gear
Cons
- Territorial coverage, lack of uniformity
To learn more about this provider, read our guide to Blue Cross Blue Shield Medicare Advantage.
AARP Medicare - Nation’s Largest Nonprofit
What We Like Most:
- Household and electronic payment discounts
- Plans A, B, C, F, G, K, L, and N offered
- Helpful online resources
Plans Offered
- Health maintenance organization (HMO)
- Health maintenance organization, point of service (HMO-POS)
- Preferred provider organization (PPO)
- Private fee for service (PFFS)
- Special needs plans (SNPs)
Service Area
AARP provides Medicare Advantage plans backed by UnitedHealthcare in 49 states and Washington, D.C.
Overview
AARP was founded in 1958 to help individuals age 50 and older navigate the later years of their lives. Their members enjoy access to discounts, advice, and advocacy in all aspects of life. AARP partners with UnitedHealthcare to offer great Medicare products to Medicare beneficiaries.
AARP is financially sound and provided a rating of A+ from AM Best. Their plan offerings include Medicare supplemental health insurance, Medicare Advantage plans, and Part D prescription plans everywhere except Alaska.
They have very forgiving underwriting on their Medigap health insurance and offer unique plan extras on their Medicare Advantage plans. Most AARP Medicare plans include dental, vision, and hearing coverage.
Pros
- Insurance provided by UnitedHealthcare
- Many programs with a 4-star rating or better
- $0 premium plans available in nearly every area
- Strong OTC benefits
Cons
- Not as many plan extras as other carriers
To learn more about this provider, read our guide to AARP Medicare plans.
Anthem - Most Flexible Care Options
What We Like Most:
- Extensive provider network
- Affordable monthly premiums
- Bundling options with health and dental
- Large selection of plans
Plans Offered
- Health maintenance organization (HMO)
- Health maintenance organization, point of service (HMO-POS)
- Preferred provider organization (PPO)
- Private fee for service (PFFS)
- Special needs plans (SNPs)
Service Area
Anthem is the most prominent member of Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) and offers Medicare Advantage plans in seven states.
Overview
Anthem BCBS is the largest affiliate of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association. They are a trusted name for many Medicare beneficiaries and healthcare providers. Anthem provides access to many low-cost Medicare Advantage plans in the seven states they offer these plans. They also offer Anthem Medicare supplement plans.
While Anthem does offer dental and vision benefits, you’ll typically have to pay an additional cost for these benefits. They provide an over-the-counter allowance and have an A rating from AM Best in terms of financial strength.
Anthem’s additional benefits include a 24-hour nurse hotline, wellness programs, LiveHealth Online, and healthy pantry services. Their innovative online app helps members stay on top of their healthcare and get the most out of their Medicare Advantage program.
Pros
- Largest BCBS affiliate
- Trusted name
- Unique plan extras
- Service dog support program
Cons
- Additional premiums for many dental and vision plans
To learn more about this provider, read our guide to Anthem Medicare plans.
Kaiser Permanente - Easiest Access to Care
What We Like Most:
- 5-star-rated plans
- Top ratings in customer satisfaction
- All-in-one care facilities
- Silver&Fit healthy aging and exercise program
Plans Offered
- Health maintenance organization (HMO)
- Special needs plans (SNPs)
Service Area
Kaiser Permanente provides Medicare Advantage plans in eight states and Washington, D.C.
Overview
Kaiser Permanente offers a unique perspective on Medicare Advantage plans. They have some of the most restrictive networks; however, they offer one of the best inclusive healthcare models. Kaiser plans are limited to in-network HMO coverage, but there is an excellent reason for that.
Kaiser’s medical facilities are all-inclusive, so you won’t be driving all over town for different appointments. They are pretty much a one-stop shop for all your Medicare needs. This model works so well for them that most plans hold the highest rating of 5 stars.
Their plan extras include transportation to and from the medical facility and providing a healthy aging and wellness program through Silver&Fit.
To learn more about this provider, read our guide to Kaiser Permanente Medicare plans.
Pros
- All-in-one facilities
- Transportation
- Silver&Fit wellness program
- 5-star-rated plans
Cons
- Super restrictive networks
How We Chose the Best Medicare Advantage Providers
- Extra benefits: Medicare Advantage plans have remarkably similar benefits and structures. In many cases, the decision comes down to the extra benefits. Each plan has different plan extras. Reviewing the plan with an insurance agent can assist in determining if the plan extras are suitable for your needs.
- Low premiums: Since Medicare Advantage plans take over for Original Medicare, they have low or no premiums in many areas, but not all plans are the same. Each plan will have different copays, deductibles, and coinsurance costs. Be sure to review the out-of-pocket maximum and additional benefits.
- PPO availability: Some carriers offer PPO plans, and some don’t, such as Kaiser Permanente. If you travel, you want to look into a PPO plan so that you're covered when you’re not in the plans service area. Many PPO plans have nationwide providers that can still see you as in-network.
- Customer service: It’s essential to go with a company with good customer service. The last thing you want to do when you need help is to jump through hoops.
- Ratings: Medicare Advantage Plan as assigned star ratings based on how well they perform. The higher the star rating, the better the performance of the plan.
Medicare Advantage vs. Original Medicare
Medicare Advantage and Original Medicare are not the same. Original Medicare is comprised of Medicare Part A and Part B. There are no limits on what you can spend for the year, and the costs are unpredictable. Original Medicare has fewer restrictions on healthcare providers and services.
Medicare Advantage plans are Part C of Medicare. These plans are another way to receive your Medicare benefits. Medicare Advantage plans will typically include Part D drug coverage, additional benefits not covered under Medicare, and a cap on how much you can spend. The biggest drawbacks are that they are network-based plans and you must get authorization for some services and providers.
How to Shop for Medicare Advantage Plans
When you're trying to determine the right Medicare Advantage plan for you, there are a few things that are recommended. You should find an agent who has access to all the plans in your area. Have your agent check your doctors and drugs against the plans approved providers and formulary. Then check for the plan extras that will benefit you the most. Finally, have your agent assist you with the enrollment process.
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What are the disadvantages of Medicare Advantage plans?
While Medicare Advantage plans have many pros, there are also a few cons. They have restrictive networks and lock you in for the year. Plus, a non-medical plan administrator approves or denies services.
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What is the best Medicare Advantage plan?
Best is a relative term. What is best for you may not be the same as your neighbor. The best plan for you is the one that fits your budget and needs. You should also review the participating doctor list and drug formulary to cover your doctors and prescriptions.
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How does Medicare Advantage work?
Medicare Advantage Plans combine your benefits from Original Medicare into an easy-to-use program. These plans will typically include your Part D drug coverage and additional benefits not included under Medicare.
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How much does Medicare Advantage cost?
Medicare Advantage premiums can vary depending on where you live and which plan you choose. You can find plans as low as $0 monthly. The average cost of a Medicare Part C plan ranges from $38 to $105 per month.
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When can you enroll in Medicare Advantage?
You must have a valid enrollment period to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan. Valid enrollment periods include the following:
- Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): Three months surrounding your Medicare effective date
- Annual Enrollment Period (AEP): October 15 through December 7
- Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (MAOEP): January 1 through March 31
- Special Enrollment Period (SEP): For most SEPs, you will have to select a new plan two months after a qualifying event.