Best Medicare Advantage Plans in Texas 2026: Compared
Finding the best Medicare Advantage plans in Texas can be challenging with over 300 plan options available across the state. Texas has one of the largest Medicare Advantage markets in the United States, with major insurance carriers offering competitive plans throughout all 254 counties.
In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll evaluate the top Medicare Advantage plans in Texas for 2026, including detailed analysis of Humana, UnitedHealthcare, Aetna, and Cigna - the four largest Medicare Advantage carriers serving Texas Medicare beneficiaries.
Whether you’re new to Medicare or considering switching plans during Open Enrollment, this guide will help you understand the best Medicare Advantage options available in Texas and how to choose the right plan for your healthcare needs and budget.
Understanding Medicare Advantage in Texas
Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans are an alternative to Original Medicare, offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. In Texas, over 60% of Medicare beneficiaries choose Medicare Advantage, making it one of the most popular Medicare options in the state.
Why Texas Seniors Choose Medicare Advantage
Cost Savings: Many Texas Medicare Advantage plans have $0 monthly premiums Additional Benefits: Coverage often includes dental, vision, hearing aids, and wellness programs Prescription Drug Coverage: Most plans include Medicare Part D prescription coverage Out-of-Pocket Protection: Annual maximum limits protect against catastrophic medical costs Convenience: One card covers all your Medicare benefits
Texas Medicare Advantage Market Overview
- Plan Availability: 300+ plans across Texas
- County Coverage: Plans available in all 254 Texas counties
- Enrollment: Over 2.5 million Texans enrolled in Medicare Advantage
- Average Rating: 4.2 out of 5 stars (above national average)
- Network Size: Extensive provider networks including major Texas health systems
Top Medicare Advantage Carriers in Texas
| Insurance Carrier | Market Share | Average Star Rating | Counties Served | Plan Types |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Humana | 28% | 4.3 stars | 254 counties | HMO, PPO, HMO-POS |
| UnitedHealthcare | 25% | 4.4 stars | 254 counties | HMO, PPO |
| Aetna | 18% | 4.2 stars | 245 counties | HMO, PPO |
| Cigna Healthcare | 12% | 4.1 stars | 180 counties | HMO, PPO |
Detailed Carrier Analysis
Humana Medicare Advantage Plans in Texas
Humana is the largest Medicare Advantage provider in Texas, serving all 254 counties with a variety of plan options.
Humana Strengths:
- Comprehensive Coverage: Strong networks including major Texas health systems
- Extra Benefits: Dental, vision, hearing aid coverage on most plans
- Wellness Programs: Healthy rewards programs and fitness benefits
- Prescription Coverage: Competitive Part D formularies
- Customer Service: Above-average satisfaction ratings
Popular Humana Plans in Texas:
- Humana Gold Plus HMO: $0 premium plans available in most Texas counties
- Humana Honor PPO: More flexibility with out-of-network coverage
- Humana Gold Choice PPO: Balanced option with moderate premiums
Humana Network Highlights in Texas:
- Houston Methodist Hospital System
- Baylor Scott & White Health
- Memorial Hermann Health System
- Texas Health Resources
- University of Texas health systems
Average Costs (2026):
- Monthly Premium: $0-$89
- Medical Deductible: $0-$350
- Out-of-Pocket Maximum: $3,900-$7,550
UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage Plans in Texas
UnitedHealthcare offers extensive coverage throughout Texas with some of the highest-rated Medicare Advantage plans in the state.
UnitedHealthcare Strengths:
- Large Provider Network: Extensive physician and hospital networks
- Technology Integration: Advanced mobile app and telehealth options
- Competitive Benefits: Strong dental, vision, and hearing aid coverage
- Prescription Management: Comprehensive Part D coverage with cost-control features
- Customer Satisfaction: Consistently high star ratings
Popular UnitedHealthcare Plans in Texas:
- UnitedHealthcare Dual Complete (HMO-POS): For dual-eligible beneficiaries
- UnitedHealthcare Group Medicare Advantage PPO: Flexibility with moderate costs
- AARP Medicare Advantage (by UnitedHealthcare): Branded plans with additional perks
UnitedHealthcare Network Highlights:
- MD Anderson Cancer Center
- Texas Children’s Hospital
- UT Southwestern Medical Center
- CHI St. Joseph Health
- Ascension Seton
Average Costs (2026):
- Monthly Premium: $0-$95
- Medical Deductible: $0-$425
- Out-of-Pocket Maximum: $3,900-$7,550
Aetna Medicare Advantage Plans in Texas
Aetna Better Health serves most Texas counties with a focus on coordinated care and comprehensive benefits.
Aetna Strengths:
- Care Coordination: Strong focus on preventive care and care management
- Additional Benefits: Competitive extra benefits packages
- Quality Ratings: Above-average star ratings across most plans
- Pharmacy Network: Extensive pharmacy networks including major chains
- Member Support: Comprehensive member education and support programs
Popular Aetna Plans in Texas:
- Aetna Better Health Premier HMO: $0 premium with comprehensive benefits
- Aetna Better Health Select PPO: Greater provider flexibility
- Aetna Medicare Eagle PPO: Premium option with enhanced benefits
Aetna Network Coverage:
- Baptist Health System
- Methodist Healthcare (San Antonio)
- Southwest General Hospital
- Austin Regional Clinic
- Texas Oncology
Average Costs (2026):
- Monthly Premium: $0-$78
- Medical Deductible: $0-$395
- Out-of-Pocket Maximum: $4,200-$7,550
Cigna Healthcare Medicare Advantage Plans in Texas
Cigna Healthcare offers Medicare Advantage coverage in major Texas metropolitan areas with a focus on value-based care.
Cigna Healthcare Strengths:
- Integrated Care: Strong focus on coordinated, value-based healthcare
- Preventive Focus: Emphasis on preventive care and wellness
- Member Resources: Comprehensive health management programs
- Prescription Benefits: Competitive Part D coverage
- Quality Care: Above-average clinical quality measures
Popular Cigna Healthcare Plans:
- Cigna True Choice Medicare PPO: Flexibility with competitive costs
- Cigna Preferred Medicare HMO: $0 premium option with comprehensive coverage
- Cigna Secure Medicare PPO: Enhanced benefits for higher utilizers
Cigna Healthcare Network Access:
- Presbyterian Healthcare Services
- Texas Health Resources (select areas)
- Baylor Scott & White (limited)
- Independent physician groups
- Regional hospital systems
Average Costs (2026):
- Monthly Premium: $0-$72
- Medical Deductible: $0-$300
- Out-of-Pocket Maximum: $4,000-$7,550
Regional Variations in Texas Medicare Advantage Plans
Medicare Advantage plan availability and costs can vary significantly across different regions of Texas.
Major Metropolitan Areas
Houston-Galveston Area:
- Highest plan count (50+ options)
- Most competitive pricing
- Extensive provider networks
- Strong hospital system participation
Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex:
- 45+ plan options available
- Competitive premium structures
- Major health system coverage
- Good suburban and urban coverage
San Antonio Region:
- 35+ plan choices
- Military-friendly options (large veteran population)
- Strong regional provider networks
- Bilingual customer service widely available
Austin Area:
- Growing plan selection (30+ options)
- Technology-forward plan features
- University of Texas health system integration
- Young senior population considerations
Rural Texas Considerations
Rural Texas counties typically have fewer Medicare Advantage options, but still maintain good access:
- Plan Availability: 15-25 plans per county average
- Network Adequacy: Plans ensure adequate provider access
- Telehealth Options: Increasingly important for rural beneficiaries
- Transportation Benefits: Some plans offer transportation to medical appointments
Medicare Advantage Plan Benefits Comparison
| Benefit Category | Humana | UnitedHealthcare | Aetna | Cigna |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dental Coverage | $1,500-$3,000 annual | $1,000-$2,500 annual | $1,200-$2,800 annual | $1,000-$2,200 annual |
| Vision Benefits | $300-$600 annual | $250-$500 annual | $200-$450 annual | $250-$400 annual |
| Hearing Aids | $2,500-$4,000/ear | $2,000-$3,500/ear | $1,800-$3,200/ear | $2,000-$3,000/ear |
| Fitness Benefits | SilverSneakers + Go365 | Renew Active | SilverSneakers | SilverSneakers |
| Transportation | 24-48 one-way trips/year | 12-36 one-way trips/year | 24-40 one-way trips/year | 12-24 one-way trips/year |
| Over-the-Counter | $75-$200/quarter | $50-$180/quarter | $60-$160/quarter | $50-$140/quarter |
How to Choose the Best Medicare Advantage Plan in Texas
Selecting the right Medicare Advantage plan requires careful consideration of multiple factors specific to your healthcare needs and preferences.
Step 1: Evaluate Your Healthcare Needs
Current Health Status:
- Chronic conditions requiring regular care
- Prescription medications and dosages
- Preferred doctors and hospitals
- Expected healthcare utilization
Budget Considerations:
- Monthly premium you can afford
- Comfortable out-of-pocket maximum
- Prescription drug costs
- Additional benefit value
Step 2: Compare Plan Networks
Provider Network Check:
- Verify your doctors participate in the plan
- Ensure your preferred hospitals are covered
- Check specialist availability
- Review out-of-network coverage options
Texas-Specific Network Considerations:
- Major health systems participation
- Rural provider access (if applicable)
- Specialist availability in your region
- Emergency care coverage while traveling
Step 3: Analyze Prescription Drug Coverage
Formulary Review:
- Confirm your medications are covered
- Check tier placement and costs
- Review pharmacy network options
- Understand prior authorization requirements
Texas Pharmacy Networks:
- H-E-B Pharmacies (widely available)
- CVS and Walgreens locations
- Independent pharmacy participation
- Mail-order pharmacy options
Step 4: Consider Extra Benefits
Most Valued Additional Benefits:
- Dental coverage for routine and major services
- Vision benefits including eyeglasses
- Hearing aid coverage and services
- Transportation to medical appointments
- Over-the-counter product allowances
- Fitness and wellness programs
Step 5: Review Quality Ratings
Medicare assigns star ratings (1-5 stars) based on:
- Healthcare quality and performance
- Customer service and satisfaction
- Plan administration efficiency
- Member experience surveys
Choosing High-Quality Plans:
- Look for 4-5 star rated plans
- Review specific quality measures important to you
- Consider bonus benefits available to high-rated plans
- Check complaint ratios and satisfaction scores
Medicare Advantage Enrollment in Texas
Understanding when and how to enroll in Medicare Advantage is crucial for Texas Medicare beneficiaries.
When You Can Enroll
Initial Coverage Election Period:
- 3 months before turning 65 through 3 months after your birthday month
- When first becoming eligible due to disability
Annual Open Enrollment (October 15 - December 7):
- Switch between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage
- Change Medicare Advantage plans
- Add or drop prescription drug coverage
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment (January 1 - March 31):
- Switch from Medicare Advantage to Original Medicare
- Change Medicare Advantage plans (one change allowed)
Special Enrollment Periods
Common SEP Triggers:
- Moving outside your plan’s service area
- Loss of employer or union coverage
- Changes in dual-eligible status
- Plan contract terminations
- Chronic care special needs qualification
For comprehensive enrollment guidance, see our detailed Medicare enrollment guide for Texas.
Working with Licensed Agents in Texas
Benefits of Professional Assistance:
- Plan comparison expertise
- Network verification assistance
- Benefits analysis based on your needs
- Enrollment support and guidance
- Ongoing plan management support
What to Expect from Licensed Agents:
- No-cost consultation and enrollment assistance
- Unbiased plan comparisons
- Education about Medicare rules and regulations
- Annual plan review and recommendations
- Customer service throughout the year
Medicare Advantage vs. Original Medicare + Medigap
Many Texas Medicare beneficiaries wonder whether Medicare Advantage or Original Medicare with a supplement plan is the better choice.
Medicare Advantage Advantages
Cost Predictability:
- Out-of-pocket maximums limit annual costs
- Many plans have $0 monthly premiums
- Prescription drug coverage typically included
Convenience:
- One card for all coverage
- Coordinated care through plan networks
- Additional benefits not available with Original Medicare
Extra Benefits:
- Dental, vision, and hearing coverage
- Wellness programs and fitness benefits
- Transportation and over-the-counter allowances
Original Medicare + Medigap Advantages
Provider Freedom:
- See any Medicare-accepting provider nationwide
- No network restrictions or referrals required
- No prior authorization for most services
Coverage Predictability:
- Benefits don’t change annually
- Comprehensive coverage with right supplement plan
- Protection when traveling outside Texas
For a detailed comparison, see our Medicare supplement plans guide.
Texas Medicare Advantage Resources
State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)
Texas SHIP provides free Medicare counseling throughout the state:
- Phone: 1-800-252-9240
- Services: Plan comparisons, enrollment assistance, claims help
- Locations: Offices in all 254 Texas counties
- Website: tdi.texas.gov/consumer/hicap
Area Agencies on Aging
Texas has 28 Area Agencies on Aging providing local Medicare support:
- Medicare education seminars
- Individual counseling appointments
- Benefits enrollment assistance
- Long-term care planning
Texas Department of Insurance
Consumer assistance for insurance-related questions:
- Phone: 1-800-252-3439
- Services: Insurance company complaints, consumer protection
- Website: tdi.texas.gov
Medicare.gov Resources
Official Medicare website tools:
- Plan Finder: Compare all available plans by ZIP code
- Provider Directory: Find participating doctors and hospitals
- Formulary Finder: Check prescription drug coverage
- Star Ratings: Review plan quality ratings
City-Specific Medicare Advantage Information
Houston Medicare Advantage Plans
Houston Medicare beneficiaries have access to the most Medicare Advantage plan options in Texas. For detailed Houston-specific information, see our comprehensive Houston Medicare guide.
Dallas-Fort Worth Medicare Advantage Plans
The Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex offers excellent Medicare Advantage plan variety and competitive pricing. Learn more in our Dallas-Fort Worth Medicare guide.
Frequently Asked Questions About Medicare Advantage in Texas
What is the best Medicare Advantage plan in Texas?
The best plan depends on your individual healthcare needs, budget, and preferences. Top-rated carriers include Humana, UnitedHealthcare, Aetna, and Cigna, but the specific best plan varies by location and personal circumstances.
Can I use my Medicare Advantage plan anywhere in Texas?
Most Medicare Advantage plans have regional networks. While you’ll have coverage throughout Texas, you may have higher costs or limited coverage when using out-of-network providers outside your plan’s service area.
How much do Medicare Advantage plans cost in Texas?
Many Medicare Advantage plans in Texas have $0 monthly premiums, but you’ll still pay the Medicare Part B premium. Total costs depend on the specific plan’s deductibles, copays, and coinsurance.
Can I switch Medicare Advantage plans every year?
Yes, during the Annual Open Enrollment Period (October 15 - December 7), you can switch Medicare Advantage plans, return to Original Medicare, or make other coverage changes.
Do Medicare Advantage plans cover prescription drugs?
Most Medicare Advantage plans in Texas include prescription drug coverage (Part D). However, you should verify that your specific medications are covered by the plan’s formulary.
What happens if my doctor doesn’t accept my Medicare Advantage plan?
If your doctor leaves your plan’s network, you may need to switch doctors, pay higher out-of-network costs, or change to a different plan during the next enrollment period. Some plans offer transition periods for ongoing care.
Are Medicare Advantage plans regulated in Texas?
Yes, Medicare Advantage plans are regulated by both the federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Texas Department of Insurance. Plans must meet strict federal requirements for benefits, networks, and quality.
Can I have both Medicare Advantage and Medigap?
No, you cannot have both Medicare Advantage and Medigap insurance simultaneously. If you have Medicare Advantage, you don’t need Medigap because Medicare Advantage replaces Original Medicare.
Get Expert Help Choosing Your Texas Medicare Advantage Plan
Choosing the right Medicare Advantage plan in Texas requires careful analysis of your healthcare needs, budget, and preferences. With hundreds of plan options available, having expert guidance can help ensure you select the best coverage for your situation.
Free Medicare Advantage Consultation:
- Compare all available plans in your Texas county
- Verify your doctors and hospitals are covered
- Analyze prescription drug coverage for your medications
- Review additional benefits and their value
- Understand total annual costs including premiums and out-of-pocket expenses
Why Work with Licensed Medicare Specialists:
- No-cost assistance with plan selection
- Unbiased comparison of all available options
- Expert knowledge of Texas provider networks
- Ongoing support throughout the year
- Help with claims, billing, and plan changes
Ready to Find Your Best Medicare Advantage Plan?
Contact our licensed Texas Medicare specialists today for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll help you navigate the complex Medicare Advantage landscape and find the plan that best meets your healthcare needs and budget.
Don’t let the complexity of Medicare Advantage prevent you from getting the best possible coverage. Our experts understand the Texas Medicare market and can guide you to the right plan choice. Call us today to get started with your personalized Medicare Advantage plan comparison.
Medicare Advantage offers excellent healthcare coverage options for Texas seniors, and with the right plan selection, you can enjoy comprehensive benefits, predictable costs, and valuable extra benefits while maintaining access to quality healthcare providers throughout Texas.