Medicare Advantage Plans in California (CA)
Compare Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans available in California. Review top carriers, plan benefits, costs, and enrollment information to find the best coverage for your needs in CA.
3.2M
MA Enrollees
6+
Major Carriers
$0
Premium Options Available
HMO/PPO
Plan Types
Medicare Advantage in California: Overview
Medicare Advantage plans in California provide an alternative to Original Medicare, offering comprehensive coverage through private insurance companies approved by the federal government. With approximately 3.2M enrolled beneficiaries, California has a robust Medicare Advantage market with multiple carriers competing for members.
California Medicare Advantage plans typically include all Part A and Part B benefits, Part D prescription drug coverage, and additional benefits such as dental cleanings, vision exams, hearing aids, fitness programs, over-the-counter allowances, and transportation to medical appointments. Many plans in California offer $0 monthly premiums, making them an affordable option for beneficiaries looking for comprehensive coverage.
Top Medicare Advantage Carriers in California
The following insurance carriers offer some of the most popular Medicare Advantage plans in California. Plan availability, benefits, and network coverage vary by county within the state.
Medicare Advantage Plan Types in California
California beneficiaries can choose from several types of Medicare Advantage plans, each with different network structures and cost-sharing arrangements:
HMO Plans (Health Maintenance Organization)
The most common MA plan type in California. HMO plans generally require you to use in-network doctors and hospitals and may need referrals for specialist care. Premiums and copays tend to be lower than PPO plans.
PPO Plans (Preferred Provider Organization)
PPO plans in California offer more flexibility, allowing you to see out-of-network providers at a higher cost. No referrals needed for specialists. Good for California residents who want broader provider access.
Special Needs Plans (SNPs)
Available in California for beneficiaries with specific conditions or circumstances: D-SNPs for dual-eligible (Medicare and Medicaid) members, C-SNPs for chronic conditions, and I-SNPs for institutionalized individuals.
Benefits Commonly Included in California MA Plans
How to Enroll in Medicare Advantage in California
You can enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan in California during the following enrollment periods:
- Initial Enrollment Period: The 7-month window around your 65th birthday (3 months before, your birthday month, and 3 months after)
- Annual Enrollment Period: October 15 through December 7 each year, with coverage starting January 1
- Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment: January 1 through March 31 for current MA members to switch plans
- Special Enrollment Periods: Triggered by qualifying events such as moving, losing coverage, or qualifying for Medicaid
Use the Medicare Plan Finder at Medicare.gov to compare all Medicare Advantage plans available in your California county.
How to Choose a Medicare Advantage Plan in California
When selecting a Medicare Advantage plan in California, consider these factors:
- Provider network: Verify that your current doctors, specialists, and preferred hospitals in California are in the plan's network
- Prescription drug coverage: Check that your medications are on the plan's formulary and review cost tiers
- Total costs: Compare premiums, copays, deductibles, and annual out-of-pocket maximums
- Extra benefits: Evaluate dental, vision, hearing, and other supplemental benefits
- Star ratings: Review CMS quality ratings for member satisfaction and care outcomes
Medicare Plans in California Cities
Related Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Medicare Advantage plans are available in California?
The number of Medicare Advantage plans in California varies by county. Major metropolitan areas typically have 40-90+ plan options, while rural counties may have 10-30 options. Top carriers in California include Kaiser Permanente, UnitedHealthcare, Humana, Anthem Blue Cross, Aetna, SCAN Health.
What is the average cost of Medicare Advantage in California?
Many Medicare Advantage plans in California have $0 monthly premiums beyond the standard Part B premium ($185/month in 2026). Plans with additional benefits may charge $10-$50/month. Copays and out-of-pocket costs vary by plan.
Who are the top Medicare Advantage carriers in California?
The leading Medicare Advantage carriers in California include Kaiser Permanente, UnitedHealthcare, Humana, Anthem Blue Cross, Aetna, SCAN Health. Each carrier offers different plan types, networks, and benefit packages across California counties.
When can I enroll in Medicare Advantage in California?
California residents can enroll in Medicare Advantage during the Initial Enrollment Period (around your 65th birthday), the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 - December 7), or during a Special Enrollment Period triggered by a qualifying life event.
Do Medicare Advantage plans in California cover dental and vision?
Most Medicare Advantage plans in California include dental, vision, and hearing benefits. Coverage levels vary by plan but commonly include preventive dental care, routine eye exams, and annual hearing screenings. Some plans offer comprehensive dental with higher annual allowances.
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.