Medicare Advantage in 2026: Premiums, Out-of-Pocket Limits, Supplemental Benefits, and Prior Authorization

Article excerpt

Medicare Advantage premiums will rise modestly in 2026, with out-of-pocket spending limits increasing and supplemental benefits shifting as insurers adjust to regulatory changes. The Kaiser Family Foundation analysis tracks how plan designs are evolving, including adjustments to prior authorization requirements that affect beneficiary access to care. These changes reflect ongoing tensions between insurers managing costs and seniors navigating coverage rules that determine what services require advance approval before treatment.