Major Insurers Cutting Medicare Advantage Plans: What It Means for You
What You Need to Know for 2026
As announced in early October, Medicare Advantage plans are facing unprecedented changes heading into 2026. More carriers than ever before are discontinuing plans, and some are even pulling out of entire regions altogether. These shifts can leave many individuals without coverage if they don’t act quickly. Here’s what’s happening, why it matters, and how you can protect yourself.
Why are Plans Being Discontinued?
According to recent reports, carriers are reevaluating their offerings due to rising costs, regulatory pressures, and market dynamics. In some cases, insurers are leaving entire counties or states, meaning certain plans will no longer be available in those areas (13WHAM, 2025; Spectrum Local News, 2025).
Why Location Matters
Medicare Advantage plans are not one-size-fits-all. Availability depends on your county, and changes can differ dramatically from one region to another. For example, some counties in New York will see multiple carriers exit, while others may still have robust options (Spectrum Local News, 2025).
Signs Your Plan Is Ending
- No Annual Notice of Change (ANOC): If you didn’t receive an ANOC for 2026, it’s a strong indication your plan will not be offered next year (Medicare Interactive, 2025).
- Carrier Announcements: Some carriers, including major names like Excellus BlueCross BlueShield, have already confirmed they are reducing or eliminating offerings in certain markets (13WHAM, 2025).
What Happens If You Don’t Act?
If your plan is terminated and you don’t enroll in a new one:
- You’ll revert to Original Medicare (Parts A and B).
- You will lose prescription drug coverage unless you enroll in a Part D plan.
- You will not be automatically enrolled in a new Medicare Advantage plan (Medicare Interactive, 2025).
Your Next Steps
- Explore New Options: Even if your carrier offers similar plans, you must actively enroll in the new plan.
- Get Local Help: Medicare options vary by ZIP code. Working with a trusted advisor ensures you find the best coverage for your needs (Spectrum Local News, 2025).
How OneGroup Can Help
At OneGroup, we understand these changes can feel overwhelming. Our team is here to guide you through your options, explain the differences, and help you make confident decisions. We prioritize your well-being and peace of mind—because your health coverage should never be left to chance. Don’t wait until the last minute. Contact OneGroup at 800-269-1830 and talk to our Medicare team to review your Medicare options for 2026 and secure the coverage you need.
References
13WHAM. (2025, October). Some Medicare Advantage plans not available next year. Retrieved from https://13wham.com/news/local/some-medicare-advantage-plans-not-available-next-year-health-care-insurance-excellus-bluecross-blueshield
Spectrum Local News. (2025, October). Navigating Medicare Advantage plans discontinued. Retrieved from https://spectrumlocalnews.com/nys/rochester/news/2025/10/07/navigating-medicare-advantage-plans-discontinued
Medicare Interactive. (2025). Options for those whose Medicare Advantage or Part D plan is ending at the close of the year. Retrieved from https://www.medicareinteractive.org/understanding-medicare/health-coverage-options/changing-medicare-coverage/options-for-those-whose-medicare-advantage-or-part-d-plan-is-ending-at-the-close-of-the-year
We are not a government agency. We are licensed insurance agents who discuss insurance programs such as Medicare Advantage, Medigap, and Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Coverage. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-Medicare to get information on all of your options.
This content is for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing professional, financial, medical or legal advice. You should contact your licensed professional to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. Please refer to your policy contract for any specific information or questions on applicability of coverage.
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