The director of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services says the changes represent a “critical first step toward a more efficient, effective and patient-first health care system.”

Updated policies mean the CMS is projected to pay about 2.48 percent more to Medicare Advantage and Part D insurance plans.

Wellcare and Humana’s Medicare Part D plans stand out for affordability and quality. Shop for 2026 coverage now before fall open enrollment ends on Dec. 7. Many, or all, of the products featured on this page are from our advertising partners who ...

Following significant industry outcry over a proposal to keep Medicare Advantage rates largely flat in 2027, the Trump administration has bumped payments up slightly in the final policy. | Following significant industry outcry over a proposal to keep Medicare Advantage rates largely flat in 2027,

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has granted Elevance Health additional time to address alleged data reporting deficiencies tied to its Medicare Advantage programs, delaying potential enforcement actions while corrective steps are reviewed.

While most Medicare enrollees do not have to pay a premium for Part A, there's an inpatient deductible that has to be paid when you're admitted to the hospital. Last year, it was $1,676. This year, it's $1,736.

Every year Medicare Part B users are allowed to get a Medicare Annual Wellness Visit (AWV)—a nonphysical check-up that allows them and their medical provider to create a personalized prevention plan.

Insurers can deny people Medigap policies for pre-existing conditions if someone tries to purchase a policy outside of a one-time open enrollment period. Investopedia breaks down what people should know.