Despite headlines about insurers pulling back from certain markets, a report by Arnold Ventures reveals that the Medicare Advantage market remains highly robust in 2026. According to the data, over 99% of Medicare-eligible individuals still have access to at least two plan options.
While the average number of plans available per beneficiary slightly decreased from 2025, seniors still choose from an average of 39 plans, a massive 67% increase compared to 2019. Insurers have primarily reduced redundant plan variations rather than exiting major geographical footprints altogether.
However, the report notes that roughly 165,000 beneficiaries in highly specific rural counties in states like Vermont, Colorado, and Minnesota did face meaningful reductions in options, highlighting the ongoing disparity between urban and rural Medicare Advantage access.
