If you’re currently enrolled in a Medicare Advantage or Part D drug plan, there’s an important update you’ll want to pay attention to. Major insurers including UnitedHealthcare, Humana, and Aetna (CVS Health) are scaling back their offerings for 2026. For many beneficiaries, that could mean losing their current coverage.

These changes are largely driven by rising healthcare costs and adjustments to government funding, which have made some regions less profitable for insurers.

Bobby Hunter, CEO of Government Programs at UnitedHealthcare, explains:
“The combination of CMS funding cuts, rising healthcare costs, and increased utilization have created headwinds that no organization can ignore.”

Why Insurers Are Cutting Back on Medicare Part D Plans in 2026

Government reimbursement is expected to fall 20% by 2026 compared to 2023. Even with a projected 5.06% increase next year, insurers say the cuts and rising costs make it financially challenging to continue offering plans in all areas.

As a result, beneficiaries may see more HMO-style plans that require referrals and limit access to specific providers.

Here’s What’s Changing

According to Reuters:

UnitedHealthcare (UHC)

• Dropping plans in 109 counties

• Impacting around 180,000 beneficiaries

Humana

• Cutting plans in hundreds of counties and a few states

• Coverage dropping from 89% → 85% of U.S. counties

• Presence in states shrinking from 48 → 46

Aetna (CVS Health)

• Offering plans in 100 fewer counties

• Coverage dropping from 44 → 43 states

• Plans available in 2,159 counties, down from 2,259

Is Your Plan Affected?

Check your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC), which should have arrived by September 30. It will tell you:

• If your plan is being discontinued

• Any changes in coverage

• Premium adjustments for 2026

If you haven’t received your ANOC, you can call your provider or check their website.

Finding a New Plan

If your current plan won’t be available next year, you have options:

1. Medicare.gov Plan Finder – Compare your current plan to other options for 2026.

2. SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program) – Free, unbiased guidance for Medicare beneficiaries and their families.

Take Action Now

Open enrollment is your chance to review your plan, compare options, and make sure you’re getting the coverage you need at a price that works.

If this feels overwhelming, Brian can help guide you through your choices, answer your questions, and find the plan that fits your needs for 2026.