Medicare’s annual open enrollment period runs from October 15 through December 7. If you are on Medicare, this is your window to review your coverage and make changes for the coming year. New data released by CMS and analyzed by KFF shows that the Medicare Advantage landscape is shifting for 2027, and Illinois is one of the states seeing the biggest changes.
Fewer Plans, But Still Plenty of Options
In 2027, the average Medicare beneficiary will be able to choose from 28 Medicare Advantage plans that include prescription drug coverage. That is down from 32 in 2026 and well below the peak of 36 in 2024. When plans without drug coverage are included, the average beneficiary can choose from 35 plans, compared to 39 last year.
Even with the decline, choices remain plentiful by historical standards. The 2027 numbers are still higher than any year from 2010 through 2021.
Illinois Among the Hardest Hit
Most states will see fewer options next year. Texas saw the largest drop, losing 9 plans for the average beneficiary. Illinois and Ohio were next, each losing 8. In Illinois, the average beneficiary will go from 38 Medicare Advantage drug plan options in 2026 to 30 in 2027.
Choices vary widely across the country. Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Ohio each offer the average beneficiary 40 or more plans, while 9 states and Washington, DC offer fewer than 10. Only four states will see an increase in options.
What Happens If Your Plan Is Going Away
With fewer plans on the market, some people will learn that their current plan will not be available in 2027. Here is what typically happens:
If your insurer offers another plan of the same type (HMO or PPO) in your county, you may be moved into that plan automatically.
If not, you will need to actively choose a new Medicare Advantage plan. If you do nothing, you will be covered by Original Medicare.
Most people affected live in areas where many other options remain available.
Why Reviewing Your Coverage Matters
The number of plans is only part of the story. Every year, Medicare Advantage plans change their premiums, copays, out of pocket limits, drug lists, provider networks, extra benefits, and rules like referrals and prior authorization. A plan that worked well this year may not be the best fit next year.
Despite this, most people on Medicare do not compare their options each year, and many say they feel overwhelmed by the number of choices. With nearly 30 drug plan options available to the average person, sorting through the differences can be a real challenge.
We Can Help
You do not have to figure this out alone. The Eriksen Insurance Group can review your current plan, check that your doctors and prescriptions are covered, and help you compare options before the December 7 deadline. Call us at 224-829-8771 or visit erikseninsurance.com to schedule a review.
Source: KFF analysis of CMS data, October 2026.