Special Report: Medicare's Dec. 7 Deadline — Advantage Premiums Are Falling, but Millions in Drug Plans Face Higher Bills if They Don't Shop
CMS says average Medicare Advantage premiums will drop more than 16% in 2027. An independent KFF analysis warns that three in four stand-alone drug plan enrollees without low-income help will pay more if they stay put. With four weeks left in open enrollment, here is what to check.
By Clara Hughes
Medicare's annual open enrollment runs through Monday, Dec. 7. For many Altas readers and their parents, the next four weeks are the window to review and change coverage for 2027. The Trump administration says the outlook is strong. "CMS is fighting to keep high-quality care options affordable and accessible for the millions of beneficiaries who rely on Medicare Advantage and Part D prescription drug plans," said CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz. The headline numbers support him on Medicare Advantage. But for people in stand-alone prescription drug plans, the fine print matters — and doing nothing could cost real money. Keep reading with Altas Premium. Below: the full 2027 premium picture for Medicare Advantage and Part D, why CMS and KFF projections differ, the higher drug deductible, which national plans cost the most and least, help for lower-income seniors — and a step-by-step