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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The Best Medicare Advantage Plans of 2023: Our Favorite Providers

September 25, 2023 amie-clark

Author: Amie Clark | September 25, 2023 |

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Humana - Best Extra Benefits

Overall Rating:

4.5 / 5

View Plans

Call for best price:
844-382-7911

What We Like ↓

Cigna - Low Premiums

Overall Rating:

4.4 / 5

View Plans

Call for best price:
866-932-5678

What We Like ↓

UnitedHealthcare - Best Over-the-Counter Benefits

Overall Rating:

4.6 / 5

View Plans

Call for best price:
(855) 908-2871

What We Like ↓

Wellcare - Flexible Spending Allowances

Overall Rating:

4.5 / 5

View Packages What We Like ↓

Aetna - Best Online Services

Overall Rating:

4.7 / 5

View Plans

Call for best price:
(855) 908-2871

What We Like ↓

Blue Cross Blue Shield - Most Trusted by Doctors

Overall Rating:

4.6 / 5

View Packages

Call for best price:
(855) 908-2871

What We Like ↓

AARP - Nation’s Largest Nonprofit

Overall Rating:

4.2 / 5

View Plans

Call for best price:
(855) 908-2871

What We Like ↓

Anthem - Most Flexible Care Options

Overall Rating:

4.1 / 5

View Plans

Call for best price:
855-635-3873

What We Like ↓

Kaiser Permanente - Easiest Access to Care

Overall Rating:

4.0 / 5

What We Like ↓

Our Top Picks Best Providers How We Chose Providers Medicare Advantage vs. Original Medicare Shopping for Plans

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
Humana	49 states	Excellent customer service Denture coverage on many plans SilverSneakers
Cigna	26 states and Washington, D.C	High customer satisfaction rating More than three-quarters of their plans have a $0 premium Acupuncture coverage on select plans
UnitedHealthcare	49 states and Washington, D.C.	OTC benefit can be used in-store and can be used on food Endorsed by AARP Renew Active wellness program
Wellcare	36 states	Flexible spending for hearing, vision, or dental Extra benefits for those with chronic conditions
Aetna	49 states and Washington, D.C.	Large provider network Dental implant coverage on select plans Personal emergency response system
Blue Cross Blue Shield	47 states	$0 premium plan options in 45 states Healthy food allowance MyBlue concierge service
AARP	49 states and Washington, D.C	Plans administered by UnitedHealthcare 24/7 nurse hotline Renew Active wellness program
Anthem	7 states	Largest charter member of Blue Cross Blue Shield Service dog support Pest control offered as plan extra
Kaiser Permanente	8 states and Washington, D.C.	All-inclusive care facilities Transportation services Silver&Fit fitness program

Humana - Best Extra Benefits

4.5 / 5

View Plans

Call for best price:
844-382-7911

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

4.4 / 5

View Plans

Call for best price:
866-932-5678

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

4.6 / 5

View Plans

Call for best price:
(855) 908-2871

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

4.5 / 5

View Packages

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

4.7 / 5

View Plans

Call for best price:
(855) 908-2871

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

4.6 / 5

View Packages

Call for best price:
(855) 908-2871

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

4.2 / 5

View Plans

Call for best price:
(855) 908-2871

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

4.1 / 5

View Plans

Call for best price:
855-635-3873

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

4.0 / 5

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.

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.

Written By

Amie Clark

Amie has been writing about senior care products and services for the last decade. She is particularly passionate about new technologies that help improve the quality of life for seniors and their families. Seeing her parents and grandparents age made Amie ask herself, “Would this be good enough for my loved ones?” In her spare time, Amie enjoys outdoor adventures and spontaneous road trips. Learn more about Amie here