UnitedHealth Group to Lead Medicare Advantage in 2026, But Cuts Loom in 2027
UnitedHealth Group will lead the Medicare Advantage market in the coming year, managing the largest number of plans. However, the company, along with CVS Pharmacy and Humana, will reduce their offerings in 2026 due to government cuts in payments.
UnitedHealth Group, the current leader in Medicare Advantage plans, will see a significant reduction in its coverage next year. The company will stop operating plans in 109 U.S. counties, affecting approximately 180,000 people. This change follows a trend of decreasing payments from the U.S. government since 2024 to control spending.
CVS Pharmacy's Aetna will also scale back its prescription drug plans in 2026, operating in 100 fewer U.S. counties compared to this year. Meanwhile, Humana will reduce its Medicare Advantage plans to cover 85% of U.S. counties, down from 89% in 2025.
In 2026, UnitedHealth Group, CVS Pharmacy, and Humana will collectively reduce their Medicare Advantage offerings due to government spending cuts. This will result in fewer plans and coverage changes for seniors across the U.S.
