Anthem Blue Cross (Elevance Health) Medicare Review (2026)
Comprehensive review of Anthem Medicare plans including coverage options, ratings, pros and cons, and how they compare to other carriers.
CMS Star Rating
3.5
States Served
14
MA Members
2.1M
Founded
2004
InsureRocket Rating
Anthem Overview
Anthem Blue Cross, operating under the Elevance Health (formerly Anthem Inc.) umbrella, is a major health insurance provider and the largest for-profit managed care company in the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association. The company serves over 2.1 million Medicare Advantage members across 14 states where it operates under the Anthem, Empire, or Wellpoint brands.
Anthem Medicare Plans
Anthem offers Medicare Advantage HMO and PPO plans, including dual-eligible Special Needs Plans (D-SNPs). Their plans frequently include $0 premium options, dental and vision coverage, prescription drug benefits, fitness programs, and telehealth services. They also offer stand-alone Part D and Medigap supplemental policies.
Plans Offered:
Coverage Areas
Anthem operates in 14 states including California, Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Maine, Missouri, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, Ohio, Virginia, and Wisconsin. Network strength varies significantly by market.
Pros and Cons
Strengths
- Blue Cross Blue Shield brand recognition
- Large provider networks
- Strong regional presence
- Variety of plan options
Weaknesses
- Limited to 14 states
- Prior authorization requirements
- Variable quality by region
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Anthem a good Medicare insurance company?
Anthem has a CMS star rating of 3.5 out of 5. Key strengths include Blue Cross Blue Shield brand recognition, Large provider networks, Strong regional presence. However, some limitations include Limited to 14 states and Prior authorization requirements. The best plan depends on your specific healthcare needs and location.
What Medicare plans does Anthem offer?
Anthem offers the following Medicare products: Medicare Advantage HMO, Medicare Advantage PPO, Medicare Part D, Medicare Supplement. Plan availability varies by county, so check Anthem's website or Medicare.gov to see what is available in your area.
How many states does Anthem serve?
Anthem Medicare plans are available in approximately 14 states. Coverage areas and plan options vary by county within each state.
How do I enroll in a Anthem Medicare plan?
You can enroll in Anthem Medicare plans during the Initial Enrollment Period (around your 65th birthday), the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 - December 7), or during a Special Enrollment Period. Enroll through Medicare.gov, by contacting Anthem directly, or through a licensed insurance agent.
Disclaimer: Plan availability, benefits, and premiums vary by location. Contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE for complete information. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.