Medicare Advantage basics · 5 min read
How to Compare Medicare Advantage Plans in 2026
A plain-English checklist for comparing 2026 Medicare Advantage plans by county, prescriptions, doctors, benefits, Star Ratings, and out-of-pocket exposure.
Start with where you live
Medicare Advantage plans are county-specific. A plan available in one county may not be available in the next county over, and provider networks can change by service area.
Before comparing benefits or premiums, narrow the list by ZIP code or county so you are reviewing plans that are actually available where you live.
Compare total fit, not just premium
A $0 premium can be attractive, but it is only one part of the cost picture. Review prescription drug coverage, doctor and hospital networks, specialist copays, and the plan’s maximum out-of-pocket limit.
Also check benefits such as dental, vision, hearing, transportation, fitness, and over-the-counter allowances — but do not let extras outweigh core medical and prescription needs.
Use Star Ratings as one signal
Medicare Star Ratings can help you understand quality and member-experience signals, but they should not be the only factor. A highly rated plan still needs to cover your doctors, prescriptions, and local care pattern.
Know when to ask for help
If you take several prescriptions, see specialists, use a specific hospital system, or are considering switching during AEP, it can be worth asking a licensed Medicare agent to verify details before you enroll.
Ready to compare your options?
Start with the “Should I Switch?” questionnaire, or browse the state pages where Medicare Choose is building deeper county-level comparisons.
Medicare Choose is not a government website and does not sell Medicare plans. Plan information is provided for comparison and education. Visit Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE for official Medicare information and all available options.