Overview

• CMS estimates the average monthly Medicare Advantage premium will decline from $16.40 in 2025 to $14 in 2026, with standalone Part D premiums projected to fall from $38.31 to $34.50 and MA-PD drug premiums to $11.50.
• Medicare Advantage enrollment is projected by insurers to dip to about 34 million in 2026 from 34.9 million, though CMS says actual participation could come in higher based on past trends.
• Beneficiary access remains broad, with more than 99% able to enroll in at least one Medicare Advantage plan and 97% having 10 or more options, while the total number of MA plans is expected to edge down from 5,633 to roughly 5,600.
• Industry analysts report many insurers are reducing benefits, raising deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums, and prioritizing HMO products, even as $0-premium offerings continue to be available in many areas.
• Broker dynamics are shifting as 15% to 20% of plans are decommissioned nationwide and commissions are cut in several markets, with open enrollment set for October 15 to December 7 and the Part D annual out-of-pocket maximum reported to rise to about $2,100 in 2026.