Medicare Advantage plans, also known as Part C, are private health insurance plans approved by Medicare that provide all Part A (hospital) and Part B (medical) services. Many also include extra benefits like prescription drug coverage, vision, dental, and wellness programs.
In Texas for 2026, beneficiaries have access to a wide range of Medicare Advantage options with different costs and benefits.
Texas has one of the largest Medicare Advantage markets in the country. Most counties offer multiple Medicare Advantage plans, including HMO (Health Maintenance Organization), PPO (Preferred Provider Organization), and Special Needs Plans (SNPs).
In many areas, you can also find $0 monthly premium plans that may still include drug coverage and extra benefits.
Calculate Your 2026 COLA Increase →Top‑Rated Medicare Advantage Plans in Texas for 2026
Top‑rated Medicare Advantage plans are those with high CMS star ratings from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. These ratings reflect quality of care, customer service, and member satisfaction. Plans with 4 stars or higher are considered strong performers. You can see these ratings on the official Medicare Plan Finder tool.
Some of the highest rated plans offered in Texas for 2026 include options from:
- UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage
- Humana Medicare Advantage
- Aetna Medicare Advantage
- Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Medicare Advantage
- Cigna Healthcare Medicare Advantage
These plans often score well for preventive care, care coordination, and customer service. Each insurer may offer multiple plan options with different networks and benefits. To find the highest rated plans near you, use your ZIP code in the official plan comparison tool.
How Many Medicare Advantage Plans Are Available in Texas in 2026
Texas beneficiaries can choose from a large number of Medicare Advantage plans. The total number varies by county, but most urban and suburban counties have dozens of plan choices.
Because Medicare Advantage options are region‑specific, it is important to compare only plans that serve your county and ZIP code.
Do Medicare Advantage Plans in Texas Include Prescription Drug Coverage
Many Medicare Advantage plans in Texas include Part D prescription drug coverage at no additional premium beyond the plan’s base premium. These plans are often called MA‑PD plans.
Plans that do not include drug coverage are usually labeled MA‑only plans, and beneficiaries may need a separate Part D plan.
When comparing plans, you can filter for plans that include drug coverage and see the list of covered medications on each plan’s formulary. This helps you choose a plan that covers your prescriptions with predictable costs.
What Extra Benefits Do Medicare Advantage Plans Offer in Texas
In addition to hospital and medical coverage, many Medicare Advantage plans include extra benefits that Original Medicare does not cover. These extras vary by insurer and plan, but common benefits include:
- Dental checkups and cleanings
- Vision exams and eyewear
- Hearing exams and hearing aids
- Fitness programs like gym memberships
- Transportation to medical appointments
Some plans may offer over‑the-counter allowances for health supplies or telehealth services for convenience. When reviewing plans, check each benefit closely in the official plan details.
How Much Do Medicare Advantage Plans Cost in Texas
Plan costs vary by county, insurer, and benefit mix. In many Texas counties, beneficiaries can find plans with a $0 monthly premium beyond the Medicare Part B premium. Even so, important costs include:
- Deductibles (if any)
- Copayments and coinsurance
- Maximum out‑of‑pocket limits
Because plans differ in how they structure these costs, you should review all cost components when comparing options.
Are There Special Needs Plans in Texas for 2026
Yes. Texas offers Medicare Advantage Special Needs Plans (SNPs) designed for beneficiaries with specific conditions or needs. For example:
- Chronic Condition SNPs (C‑SNPs) for people with conditions like diabetes or heart failure
- Dual Eligible SNPs (D‑SNPs) for people eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid
- Institutional SNPs (I‑SNPs) for people in long‑term care facilities
These plans tailor care coordination and benefits to help members manage complex health needs.
Can I Keep My Current Doctors With a Medicare Advantage Plan in Texas
Whether you can keep your current doctors depends on the plan’s provider network. Some Medicare Advantage plans use HMO networks, which require you to see doctors within the plan’s network for most services. Others use PPO networks, which allow out-of-network care at higher costs.
The Medicare Plan Finder lets you enter your doctors’ names to see if they participate in each plan’s network. Checking networks before enrollment helps ensure you can continue care with your preferred providers.
How Do I Enroll in a Medicare Advantage Plan in Texas
You can enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan during the Annual Enrollment Period, which runs from October 15 to December 7 each year. New Medicare beneficiaries can also enroll during their Initial Enrollment Period, which starts three months before turning 65 and lasts three months after.
If you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period due to life events, you may be able to switch plans outside the standard enrollment windows. To enroll or change plans, use the official Medicare Plan Finder tool or contact the plan directly.
