How to compare Medicare Advantage plans

Written by the My Plan Compass team. Last reviewed October 26, 2026, against Medicare.gov.

Start with what you cannot easily change: your doctors and your prescriptions. Keep the plans that cover both, then compare what each would cost you over a whole year, including the most you could pay if you get sick. Premiums and extra benefits come last.

The checklist

1. 1. Your doctors

   Are the doctors you see now in the plan's network? Most Medicare Advantage plans cover only in-network care, except emergencies. See how to check your doctor's network.

2. 2. Your prescriptions

   Is each drug on the plan's drug list, at what price, and at which pharmacy? See how to compare drug coverage.

3. 3. The most you could pay in a year

   Every Medicare Advantage plan has a yearly limit on what you pay for covered medical care. It varies by plan, and it matters more than the premium in a year with a hospital stay. See why a $0 premium is not the whole story.

4. 4. Plan type

   In an HMO you generally must use the plan's network. A PPO also covers doctors outside the network, but you usually pay more. Some HMOs need a referral to see a specialist.

5. 5. Extra benefits

   Dental, vision and hearing allowances can be worth real money, but only if you will use them. Count them in dollars and compare them with the plan's other costs.

6. 6. Star Rating

   Medicare rates plans from 1 to 5 stars on quality and service. It is a useful tiebreaker, but it says nothing about whether your doctors or drugs are covered.

7. 7. Plans for your situation

   If you have Medicaid or certain long-term conditions, a Special Needs Plan may fit you better than a general plan.

Where to find each answer

• The plan's Summary of Benefits lists the premium, copays and yearly limit. The Evidence of Coverage has the full rules.
• The plan's drug list (formulary) shows which drugs are covered and on which tier.
• The plan's provider directory lists its network. Medicare suggests also checking with your doctors before you join (Medicare network fact sheet).
• For how Medicare Advantage differs from Original Medicare, see Medicare.gov: Compare Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage.

When you can switch

Most people can change plans during Open Enrollment, October 15 to December 7, for coverage that starts January 1. See when you can change your plan.

This guide is general information, not advice about your situation. We are not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program.