What to Know: CMS Announces 2027 MA, Prescription Drug Rates

September 29, 2026

CMS this week announced average premiums for Medicare Advantage (MA) and prescription drug plans would remain stable for 2027.

Here’s what you need to know:

• New rates:  The weighted average for MA plan premiums is expected to drop 16 percent next year, while MA prescription drug premiums are expected to drop 38 percent.
  • In addition, the average premium for stand-alone Part D prescription plans is expected to increase by less than $1 per month in 2027, officials said.
• In Pennsylvania:  The average monthly MA plan premium changed from $21.75 in 2026 to $20.07 in 2027, per this CMS state-by-state fact sheet.
  • 338 MA plans will be available in Pennsylvania in 2027, up from 332 plans in 2026.
• Open enrollment:  This year’s open enrollment is from October 15 to December 7.
• Why it matters: Beneficiaries should review their options during open enrollment to ensure their coverage meets their needs. Plan offerings and costs vary.
• Quotable:  “We urge beneficiaries to use open enrollment as an opportunity to review their coverage, compare options, and pick the plan that best suits their needs and budget,” said Dr. Mehmet Oz, CMS administrator.

Additional information about 2027 MA open enrollment is available online.