The annual enrollment period is a time when many Medicare beneficiaries look to switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plans 2026.
In 2026, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced updated benefits and services designed to improve the quality of care and support for Medicare beneficiaries. Some of the following changes are expected:
Expanded Coverage of Vision and Hearing
In 2026, MA Plans will offer expanded coverage of eye exams and eyeglasses, as well as hearing aids. Currently, most MA plans cover basic vision services, such as yearly eye exams, but do not pay for corrective lenses. MA plans will also be able to cover certain types of laser eye surgery.
Medicare beneficiaries who have diabetes will also see increased access to retinal screenings and other eye care services.
Hearing aids are one of the fastest growing healthcare costs in the U.S. Currently, Medicare does not cover hearing aids. However, starting next year, MA plans will now be able to cover hearing aids.
Enhanced Access to Dental Care
MA plans will also begin covering preventative dental services, and expand coverage of comprehensive dental care, including fillings and root canals. Currently, MA plans typically cover routine dental check-ups, but do not cover more extensive treatments.
This change is expected to improve dental health outcomes for Medicare beneficiaries, as poor oral health is linked to a number of chronic conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections.
Increased Access to Mental Health Services
In 2026, MA plans will also be required to provide coverage for additional mental health services, including counseling, therapy, and substance abuse treatment. This is in response to a growing need for mental health care among Medicare beneficiaries, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
MA plans will also be required to provide services in a variety of settings, including outpatient, residential, and community-based programs.
More Flexible Coverage Options for Chronic Conditions
Another significant update for 2026 is the introduction of more flexible coverage options for beneficiaries with chronic conditions. MA plans will be required to provide access to a wider range of specialized services and therapies tailored to the specific needs of individuals with chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis.
This change aims to improve health outcomes for beneficiaries with chronic conditions, as personalized care has been shown to lead to better management of these conditions and fewer hospitalizations.
Improved Care Coordination and Support Services
CMS will also require MA plans to improve care coordination and support services for beneficiaries. This includes offering additional resources for managing chronic conditions, such as access to care coordinators, case managers, and telehealth services.
By enhancing care coordination, CMS aims to reduce hospitalizations and improve health outcomes for Medicare beneficiaries.
Expanded Telehealth Services
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of telehealth services for Medicare beneficiaries. In 2026, MA plans will be required to expand their telehealth offerings, providing beneficiaries with access to a wider range of virtual care options.
This includes coverage for telehealth visits with specialists, mental health professionals, and other healthcare providers. MA plans will also be encouraged to offer additional resources for beneficiaries, such as virtual support groups and educational workshops.
Reduced Out-of-Pocket Costs
Finally, CMS has announced plans to reduce out-of-pocket costs for Medicare beneficiaries enrolled in MA plans. Starting in 2026, beneficiaries will see lower copayments for primary care visits and outpatient services, as well as an increase in the annual out-of-pocket spending limit.
These changes are designed to improve the affordability of healthcare for Medicare beneficiaries and ensure that they can access the services they need without facing financial hardship.
In Conclusion
The updates to the 2026 Medicare Advantage Plans focus on improving the overall quality of care and support for beneficiaries. These changes are expected to enhance coverage options for essential services, improve access to mental health and preventive care, provide more flexible options for chronic conditions, and reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Medicare beneficiaries are encouraged to explore these new benefits during the annual enrollment period, ensuring they choose a plan that best meets their healthcare needs and preferences.