MA Bulletin 2025-06
Attachment to Guide to Health Insurance for People with Medicare; Issued December 19, 2025
COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS
Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation
DIVISION OF INSURANCE
One Federal Street, Suite 700 • Boston, MA 02110
(617) 521-7794 • (877) 563-4467 • www.mass.gov/doi
ERIC PALEY
SECRETARY
MAURA T. HEALEY
LAYLA R. D’EMILIA
GOVERNOR
UNDERSECRETARY
KIMBERLEY DRISCOLL
MICHAEL T. CALJOUW
LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR
COMMISSIONER
BULLETIN 2025-06
To:
Commercial Health Insurers, Health Maintenance Organizations, and Blue Cross and Blue
Shield of Massachusetts, Inc.
From:
Michael T. Caljouw, Commissioner of Insurance
Date:
December 19, 2025
Re:
Attachment to “Guide to Health Insurance for People with Medicare”
Attached please find a copy of “A Massachusetts Consumer’s Guide to Medicare.” Pursuant to
Massachusetts regulations 211 CMR 42.09(4) and 211 CMR 71.13(2)(d)4, the Massachusetts Consumer’s
Guide to Medicare is provided as an attachment along with the annual federal publication “Choosing a
Medigap Policy: A Guide to Health Insurance for People with Medicare” to persons eligible for Medicare.
This federal publication is available to read, print or order at www.medicare.gov/publications, keyword
search Medigap.
Please also be aware that due to concerns about Medicare-eligible persons being exposed to marketing
scams,
the
Division
of
Insurance
has
posted
an
advisory
on
its
website
at
https://www.mass.gov/doc/protect-against-medicare-related-scams/download. It is suggested that
consumers be made aware of this advisory so that they are aware of steps to take to protect them from
such scams.
If you have any questions about this bulletin, please contact Niels Puetthoff, Director of the Division’s
Bureau of Managed Care, at 617-521-7326 or Niels.Puetthoff@mass.gov.
2026 Massachusetts Consumer Guide
to Medicare
SHINE Program
This project is supported in part by Grant #90SAPG, from the US Administration for Community Living, Department of Health and Human Services,
Washington DC, 20201.
Grantees undertaking projects with government sponsorship are encouraged to express freely their findings and conclusions. Points of view or
opinions do not, therefore, necessarily represent official ACL policy.
Updated November 2025
Table of Contents
Enrolling in Medicare-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Page 3
What is Medicare?----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Page 4
Introduction to Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement (Medigap) and Part D Plans---------Page 6
Online Tool to Compare Options----------------------------------------------------------------------------------Page 8
How to Create an Account------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Page 9
Your Medicare Options---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Page 10
List of Available Medicare Advantage Plans-------------------------------------------------------------------Page 11
List of Available Medicare Advantage Special Needs Plans------------------------------------------------Page 14
List of Available Medicare Supplement Plans-----------------------------------------------------------------Page 15
List of Available Medicare Part D (Prescription Drug) Plans-----------------------------------------------Page 19
Page 2 of 20
Medicare Guide
Disclaimer: This guide covers the basics – and just the basics – about applying for Medicare. It does not
include every detail of this complicated subject. You can contact SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of
Everyone) for more information. SHINE is an educational resource that is designed to inform you about the
complexities of Medicare. Information was obtained via the Social Security, Medicare, and Division of
Insurance websites, IRS, as well as the Medicare & You Handbook.
Are you ready to enroll in Medicare? If so, your first step should be to contact the Social
Security Administration!
If you’re turning 65 in the next 3 months and not yet receiving benefits from the Social Security
Administration, you will not get Medicare automatically! It is your responsibility to contact Social
Security if you wish to enroll in Medicare. You will not receive any reminders or notifications from either
Social Security or Medicare.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Medicare- If you’re under 65 and have a disability, you’ll
automatically get Part A and Part B once you have received 24 months of SSDI payments.
Social Security manages enrollment in Parts A and B, and will review your records to see if you qualify for
Medicare. They will determine if you qualify for premium-free Part A, and what your monthly premium for Part B
will be, based on your income. If you have a higher income, your Part B and Part D premiums may be higher.
This is known as the Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA). Your Part B Medicare Costs.
Effective January 6, 2025, SSA will require customers to schedule an appointment for service in their
field offices, including requests for Social Security cards. SSA encourages customers to become
accustomed to:
• online services, where many transactions can be completed conveniently and securely, and
• automated services available on the National 800# at 1-800-772-1213.
Customers who are not able to handle their business online or with the automated options, may call
their local Social Security office or the National 800# to schedule an appointment.
SSA will not turn people away for service who are unable to make an appointment or do not want to
make an appointment. For example, members of vulnerable populations, military personnel, people
with terminal illnesses, and individuals with other situations requiring immediate or specialized attention
may still walk in for service at the field offices. Some of the offices also have minimal to no wait times,
and they will still serve customers who walk in.
o 1-800-772-1213; Social Security Website (www.ssa.gov)
Page 3 of 20
NOTE: In most situations, Medicare eligibility is under a beneficiary’s own social security
number. However, in the event the beneficiary is collecting spousal’s/widow/widower benefits,
then the Medicare entitlement would be transferred to the record where the beneficiary currently
collects cash benefits. The beneficiary still retains his/her own unique Medicare number which
shows on their Medicare.gov account (see page 8 of this guide).
Click Here for Information on
Medicare Enrollment
TIP: Social Security highly recommends
that you create a personalized Social
Security account to enroll in Medicare
What is Medicare?
Medicare is the federal health insurance program that was created in 1965 for people 65 & older and some
under 65 with disabilities to help with their hospital and medical coverage. The program helps with the cost of
health care but it is not comprehensive; it does not cover all medical expenses or the cost of long- term care.
Different parts of Medicare help cover specific services
Part A – Hospital Insurance
Part B – Medical Insurance
Part D – Prescription Drug Coverage
Preventive Services
Medicare does provide numerous preventive services at no cost to beneficiaries (ex. Vaccines, screenings,
etc.) A complete list of these services is available at this link:
Medicare Part B Preventive Services
Who is Eligible?
You are eligible for Medicare if you are:
o 65 years old or older and a U.S. citizen or lawfully permitted resident of the United States.
o Medicare is available for certain people with disabilities who are under age 65. These individuals must
have received 24 months of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefit payments or have
End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).
o Most people are eligible for premium- free Part A if they have paid Medicare taxes long enough
through their own or a spouse’s or ex-spouse’s work record.
If you are working and covered by your employer’s group health plan (or by a spouse’s plan), you may
want to delay enrollment in Part B and enroll only in Part A. You should check with your employer benefits
manager on whether or not you need to enroll in Part B. The number of employees in your employer group
health plan may determine if you need to enroll in Medicare as your primary insurance. You can also delay
enrollment in Part A unless you are already collecting Social Security benefits.
If you have a Health Savings Account (HSA) as part of a high deductible employer insurance plan, you
may want to delay Part A because you cannot contribute to the HSA once your Part A coverage begins. You
may use money that is already present in the account after you enroll in Medicare to help pay for deductibles,
premiums, copayments, or coinsurance. If you contribute to your HSA after your Medicare Part A coverage
starts, you may have to pay a tax penalty. You should stop HSA contributions six months prior to retiring. For
further HSA questions, refer to the IRS publication 969, their Human Resources Department or professionaltax
accountant. IRS Publication 969 (2022) Health Savings Accounts
Medicare has specific enrollment periods:
1. Initial Enrollment Period (Parts A, B, C & D)
2. General Enrollment Period (Parts A & B)
3. Open Enrollment Period (Parts C & D)
4. Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment
Period (MA OEP)
(Part C & D- must be enrolled in an MA plan
between Jan 1st and March 31st)
5. Special Enrollment Period (Parts B, C & D)
For more information please visit:
Medicare.gov-When does Medicare Coverage Start?
If you do not enroll during your Initial Enrollment Period, you may be subject to late
enrollment PENALTIES (with some exceptions), and a possible delay in your coverage.
Page 4 of 20
To enroll in Part B outside of the Initial
Enrollment Period & General Enrollment, you
must qualify for a Special Enrollment Period
(eg. Losing Employer based coverage)
Part C (Medicare Advantage) combines Part
A, B and usually Part D in one plan.
Initial Enrollment Period
3 months
before the
month you
turn 65
2 months
before the
month you
turn 65
1 month
before the
month you
turn 65
The month
you turn 65*
1 month
after
the
month you
turn 65
2 months
after the
month you
turn 65
3 months
after the
month you
turn 65
Enroll early to avoid a delay in coverage. To
get Part A and Part B the month you turn 65,
you must enroll during the first 3 months
before the month you turn 65.
If you wait until the last 4 months of your Initial Enrollment
Period to enroll, your Part B coverage will begin the first
of the month following the month of enrollment.
*if your birthday falls on the first day of the month, your coverage would be effective a month
earlier
Penalties
o Part A Late Enrollment Penalty
If you enroll late, and aren’t eligible for premium-free Part A, your monthly premium may go
up 10% for twice the number of years you signed up late.
o Part B Late Enrollment Penalty
If enrolling late, Part B penalty is a surcharge added to your monthly Part B premium for life.
The Part B late enrollment penalty is calculated as 10% of the current Part B premium for every 12
month period you were not enrolled and did not have active employer coverage.
o Part D Enrollment Penalty
If you do not have Part D coverage, even if you take no prescription drugs you can incur a
lifetime penalty. The Part D penalty is calculated as 1% of the national base beneficiary premium
for each month you were not enrolled in a Part D plan and did not have creditable coverage.
Protection from Penalties
o Once you are eligible for Medicare, as long as you are working and covered by your employer’s
group health plan (or by a spouse’s plan), you will not be assessed a Part B Late Enrollment penalty.
You will need to provide an Employment Letter to Social Security. COBRA does not provide coverage
from the Part B penalty.
o After you enroll in Medicare, if you have creditable drug coverage from any source, including employer,
VA coverage, or COBRA coverage, you will not be assessed a Part D late enrollment penalty. If you lose
this creditable coverage, you will have up to two months to enroll in a Medicare drug plan to avoid any
penalties.
Two Options for Medicare
Once you have enrolled in Medicare A and B via Social Security, you will have two options: (See page 9 for a
comparison chart)
1) Original Medicare (Parts A & B) with an optional Medigap and/or standalone drug plan (Part D)
2) Medicare Advantage plan (also known as Medicare Part C or MA plan). *You must have Part A and
Part B in order to have a MA plan.
Page 5 of 20
Medicare Advantage Plans
Medicare Advantage (also known as Medicare Part C or MA plan) is an “all in one” alternative to Original Medicare
(Parts A and B). These bundled plans are offered by private insurance companies that contract with Medicare to
provide beneficiaries with all of their Medicare benefits that include Part A, Part B, and usually Part D.
Key Components of an MA Plan:
•
Out-of-pocket costs can vary. Some plans may have lower out-of-pocket costs than others for certain
services.
•
With Medicare Advantage, you can choose between an HMO, PPO or an HMO-POS plan. You must use
doctors and/or other types of providers who are in the plan’s network if your Medicare Advantage Plan is
an HMO (Healthcare Maintenance Organization). You may also need to get a referral to see a specialist.
For PPO and HMO-POS plans, you may have the option of choosing out of network doctors but you will
usually pay higher co-pays. Ask your primary doctor or other providers you use if they participate in any
Medicare Advantage plans.
•
Emergency services will be covered anywhere within the United States. If you are traveling outside your
region (zip code/county), check with your plan for coverage information.
•
Most plans offer extra benefits that Original Medicare doesn’t cover, like routine/limited vision, hearing,
and dental. Check with your plan for coverage information.
•
You may pay a premium for the plan in addition to the monthly premium for Part B. Some plans have no
monthly premium. Make sure to check your maximum out-of-pocket cost before committing to any plan.
To be eligible for a plan, you must:
o Have both Medicare Part A & Part B
o Reside in the plan’s geographic service area
When can I enroll or disenroll in a Medicare Advantage Plan?
o Initial Enrollment Period
o Special Enrollment Period
o Open Enrollment (October 15 - December 7)
o Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (January 1 - March 31)
Note: You must be enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan between
January 1st and March 31st in order to make any changes.
Things to consider before choosing Medicare Advantage:
o Do your medical providers accept the plan or are you willing to change providers?
PLEASE call all of your providers to confirm plan acceptance!
o How much are the premium, copays, and coinsurance?
o What is the plan’s maximum out of pocket cost for the year?
o Do you need to get referrals to see a specialist?
o Are your prescription drugs on the plan’s formulary and what is the cost and are there any restrictions?
Page 6 of 20
Medicare Medical Savings Accounts *Not Currently available in Massachusetts*
Medicare Medical Savings Accounts (MSA) are consumer-directed plans that pair high deductible coverage
with a Medical Savings Account. Although these plans are considered Medicare Advantage plans, there are
some important distinctions:
o MSA plans do not include Part D drug coverage. Individuals who sign up for an MSA would need to join a
separate Part D plan to have drug coverage.
o There are no networks, but individuals must use providers that accept their MSA plan
(See pages 10-12 for a List of Medicare Advantage Plans Currently Offered in Massachusetts)
Medigap Plans
Medigap plans, also known as supplements, provide extra coverage beyond Medicare by filling some of the
gaps in Medicare coverage. Medigap plans do not provide prescription drug coverage.
In Massachusetts, there are 7 private insurance companies that offer supplement plans across the state.
Massachusetts offers continuous open enrollment, which allows you to enroll, change or drop your plan any
month for an effective date the 1st of the following month of enrollment. Medigap plans in Massachusetts are
also community rated, this means the same monthly premium is charged to everyone who has the Medigap
policy regardless of age or medical history.
(See pages 13-15 for a List of Medigap Plans Currently Offered in Massachusetts)
Part D Prescription Drug Plans:
Even if you do not take any prescription medications, you MUST have a Part D plan to avoid a lifetime
penalty unless you have other creditable coverage.
If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, most include Part D coverage. If you do not have a Medicare Advantage
plan, you can enroll in a Medicare Part D Stand-alone Prescription Drug Plan (PDP). You cannot enroll in a
stand-alone Part D plan and an Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug plan (MA-PD). Beneficiaries with higher
incomes will pay more than the standard premium for either type of plan due to IRMAA.
Your Part D Premium Costs
There are 3 phases of Part D drug coverage; 1) Deductible 2) Initial and 3) Catastrophic. Depending on your
drug plan, as well as your annual prescription drug costs, you may not reach all of these phases.
Choosing a Part D Plan:
These are the things to consider when choosing a Part D plan
o What is the Total Cost (premiums and co-pays)?
o Are your prescription drugs covered?
o Does the plan have a deductible?
o Are there any restrictions? (Quantity Limits, Prior Authorization, Step Therapy, or in/out of network)
o What pharmacies are in-network and are any preferred?
Medicare Prescription Payment Plan
The Medicare Prescription Payment Plan is a new payment option in the prescription drug law that works with your
current drug coverage to help you manage your out-of-pocket costs for drugs covered by your plan by spreading them
across the calendar year (January–December). Starting in 2025, anyone with a Medicare drug plan or Medicare health
plan with drug coverage (like a Medicare Advantage Plan with drug coverage) can use this payment option. All plans
offer this payment option, and participation is voluntary.
If you select this payment option, each month you’ll continue to pay your plan premium (if you have one), and you’ll get
a bill from your health or drug plan to pay for your prescription drugs (instead of paying the pharmacy). There’s no cost
to participate in the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan.
Page 7 of 20
On-Line Tool to Compare Options:
You can view available Part D drug plans and Medicare Advantage plans using Medicare Plan Finder.
Go to www.medicare.gov and click on “Find Plans Now” – or talk with a SHINE counselor.
TIP: Medicare also highly recommends that you create a secure Medicare account on
Medicare.gov (see page 8 for detailed instructions).
To assist with Medicare, SHINE has highly trained, dedicated volunteers who are re-certified
annually. They will be glad to make an appointment with you to further explain and clarify your
Medicare options.
SHINE Counselors can also screen you for eligibility for programs that may reduce your
Medicare costs. These programs, which are offered through Social Security, MassHealth
and Prescription Advantage, can provide assistance with premiums, copays, deductibles
and prescription drug costs.
Helpful Resources:
SHINE Program: 1-800-243-4636
Medicare: 1-800-633-4227
www.medicare.gov/
Social Security Administration: 1-800-772-1213
www.ssa.gov
MassHealth: 1-800-841-2900 (Medicaid)
https://www.mass.gov/masshealth
Prescription Advantage: 1-800-243-4636
https://www.prescriptionadvantagema.org/
For additional information and a directory of SHINE Regional Offices
you can also go to:
https://www.mass.gov/info-details/serving-the-health-insuranceneeds-of-everyone-shine-program
Page 8 of 20
Page 8
Create an Account for a Personalized
Medicare Plan Finder Experience
When you create an account, you can:
• Build a better drug list. We’ll make suggestions based on prescriptions you filled within the last
12 months.
• Modify your drug list and save changes.
• Compare benefits and costs in your current plan to other plans available in your area.
• See prices based on any help you get with drug costs.
Create your new account
If you want access to personalized information and features, you’ll need to create an
account. Visit Medicare.gov/plan-compare and click “Log in or create account.”
Have the following information ready (for yourself or the person you’re helping):
1. Medicare Number – You can find this on your red, white, and blue Medicare card. If
you’re new to Medicare and don’t have your Medicare card yet, you can get your
Medicare number on the letter you get from Social Security after you enroll.
2. Last name
3. Date of birth
4. Current address with ZIP code or city
5. Part A or Part B coverage start date (find this on your Medicare card)
Once you add this information and select “Next,” you can create a username and password
and use your new Medicare account. You can write your username and a password hint below.
Just remember to keep this sheet in a safe place to protect your privacy.
Forgot your username or password?
If you have an existing account, but forgot the username or password, click “Trouble
signing in?” under the Username box on the log in page. You’ll need this information:
1. Medicare number
2. Last name
3. Date of birth
CMS Product No. 12064
My Username:
My Password Hint:
OPTION #1
Original Medicare
+
• Optional Medigap plan
• 3 different types of Medigap plans
1. Core
2. Supplement 1A
3. Supplement 1*
(*Only if Medicare eligible prior to 2020)
• Free to choose any doctor or
hospital that accepts Medicare
• No referrals needed to see specialists
• Does NOT include drug coverage
• When changing Medigap plans,
need to call plan to disenroll
+
OPTIONAL PART D
Stand Alone Prescription Drug Plan
• Multiple plans to choose from
• Automatic disenrollment
from Prescription Drug Plan
when changing Part D plans
OPTION #2
Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C)
• Optional “Replacement”
• Must maintain Part A & Part B and must
pay Part B premium
• 4 types of MA plans
1. HMO (Health Maintenance
Organization) - May use network
providers only
2. HMO-POS (HMO with Point Of Service)-
HMO with limited out of network
coverage
3. PPO (Preferred Provider Organization)-
Can go out of network for extra $$
4. SNP (Special Needs Plans)
HMOs for institutionalized individuals or
dual eligible
• Usually includes prescription drug coverage.
• Cannot have separate Part D plan
• Cannot live outside service area for more than
6 consecutive months
• Covers some extra benefits
• Usually need referrals to see specialists
• May have co-pays and deductibles
• Plans can include prescription drug coverage
• Automatic disenrollment when changing
Medicare Advantage Plans
Page 10 of 20
REQUIRED WITH BOTH OPTIONS
MEDICARE
Enrolled in Medicare Part A & Part B and continue to pay monthly premiums
Your Medicare Options
Medicare Advantage Plans in Massachusetts
2026
Page 11 of 20
Medicare Advantage Plans
Pros:
•Convenience of having only one plan (drug plan can be included)
•More choices available (HMOs, PPOs, MSAs...)
•Some plans have lower premiums than Medigap plans
•Potential for better coordination of care (HMOs provide this)
• Some additional benefits such as hearing, vision, dental, transportation, OTC spending cards
and wellness benefits
•Annual physical exams covered
•No hospital stay required for Skilled Nursing Facility (rehab) coverage
•There is a yearly limit on your out-of-pocket costs
Cons:
•Cannot live outside service area for more than 6 consecutive months
•Usually need referrals to see specialists
•Frequently has co-pays and deductibles
•Limited network of providers
Medicare Health Maintenance Organization
(HMO) Plan
Can I go anywhere to receive care?
•No, you may use network providers only, unless you
have an emergency or urgent situation.
What is HMO-POS?
•POS benefit may allow you to use doctors, hospitals,
and other providers who are not in the HMO network.
Do I need a referral to see a specialist?
•With an HMO plan, you need a referral to see a
specialist.
Medicare Preferred Provider Organization
(PPO) Plan
Can I go anywhere to receive care?
•PPO plans have a network of providers. You may
have the option of choosing out of network doctors
but you will usually pay higher out-of-pocket costs.
Do I need a referral to see a specialist?
•In most cases, you do not need a referral to see a
specialist.
Important things to consider when choosing any Medicare Advantage Plan:
·Do your medical providers accept the plan or are you willing to change providers?
·How much are the premiums, co-pays and co-insurance?
·What is the plan’s maximum out-of-pocket cost for the year?
·Do you need to get referral to see a specialist?
·Are your prescription drugs on the plan’s formulary and what is the cost and are there any
Medicare Advantage Plans in Massachusetts
2026
Health Plan
Plan
Types
Premiums
Plans Available in the Following
Counties
Aetna Medicare
833-859-6031
https://www.aetnamedicare.com/
HMO-
POS
PPO
$0
Bristol, Essex, Hampden, Middlesex,
Norfolk, Plymouth, Suffolk, Worcester
Blue Cross Blue Shield of MA
800-678-2265
https://medicare.bluecrossma.com/
HMO
HMO-
POS
PPO
$0-$250
Barnstable, Bristol, Essex, Franklin,
Hampden, Hampshire, Middlesex,
Norfolk, Plymouth, Suffolk, Worcester
eternalHealth
833-870-3443
https://eternalhealth.com/
HMO
PPO
$0
Bristol, Middlesex, Norfolk, Plymouth,
Suffolk, Worcester
Fallon Health
888-377-1980
https://fallonhealth.org/medicare
HMO
$0-$207
Barnstable, Berkshire, Bristol, Essex,
Franklin, Hampden, Hampshire,
Middlesex, Norfolk, Plymouth, Suffolk,
Worcester
Health New England
877-443-3314
https://healthnewengland.org/medicare
HMO
PPO
$0-$168
Berkshire, Franklin, Hampden,
Hampshire
Humana
800-833-2364
https://www.humana.com/medicare
PPO
$0
Bristol, Dukes, Essex, Hampden, Suffolk,
Worcester
Page 12 of 20
Medicare Advantage Plans in Massachusetts
2026
Health Plan
Plan
Types
Premiums
Plans Available in the Following
Counties
Mass Advantage
844-941-3768
https://massadvantage.com/
HMO
PPO
$0-$95
Worcester
Mass General Brigham Health Plan
888-828-5500
https://massgeneralbrighamadvantage.org
HMO-
POS
PPO
$0-$325
Bristol, Dukes, Essex, Middlesex,
Nantucket, Norfolk, Plymouth, Suffolk,
Worcester
Tufts Health Plan
877-218-4835
https://www.tuftsmedicarepreferred.org/
HMO
PPO
$0-$255
Barnstable, Bristol, Essex, Hampden,
Hampshire, Middlesex, Norfolk,
Plymouth, Suffolk, Worcester
PPO plans in all counties except:
Berkshire, Barnstable, Dukes, Franklin,
Nantucket
UnitedHealthcare
800-555-5757
https://www.aarpmedicareplans.com/
HMO
HMO-
POS
PPO
$0-$48
Bristol, Essex, Franklin, Hampden,
Hampshire, Middlesex, Norfolk,
Plymouth, Suffolk, Worcester
Note that not all companies offer plan options in your area; premiums may vary by county. Call plan
directly for details.
Page 13 of 20
Special Needs Plans in Massachusetts
2026
Health Plan
Plan Types
Plans Available in the Following
Counties
Commonwealth Care Alliance
888-537-5816
https://www.commonwealthcarealliance.org
/ma/
HMO-D-SNP
Barnstable, Berkshire, Bristol, Essex,
Franklin, Hampden, Hampshire,
Middlesex, Norfolk, Plymouth,
Suffolk, Worcester
Fallon Health/Navicare
877-490-4971
https://fallonhealth.org/findinsurance/navicare.aspx
HMO-D-SNP
Barnstable, Berkshire, Bristol, Essex,
Franklin, Hampden, Hampshire,
Middlesex, Norfolk, Plymouth,
Suffolk, Worcester
Mass General Brigham Health Plan
888-828-5500
https://massgeneralbrighamadvantage.org
HMO-D-SNP
Bristol, Dukes, Essex, Middlesex,
Nantucket, Norfolk, Plymouth, Suffolk
Senior Whole Health
888-794-7268
https://www.molinahealthcare.com/member
s/ma/en-US/pages/home.aspx
HMO-D-SNP
Bristol, Essex, Hampden, Hampshire,
Middlesex, Norfolk, Plymouth,
Suffolk, Worcester
Tufts Health Plan
800-890-6600
https://www.tuftsmedicarepreferred.org/plans/2
025-tufts-health-plan-senior-care-options-hmosnp
HMO-D-SNP
Barnstable, Bristol, Essex, Hampden,
Hampshire, Middlesex, Norfolk,
Plymouth, Suffolk, Worcester
UnitedHealthcare
877-443-3314
https://www.uhc.com/medicare/medicareeducation/special-needs-plans.html
HMO-D-SNP
HMO-POS-C-SNP
(available only in Essex,
Franklin, Hampden,
Hampshire, Plymouth
and Worcester County)
HMO-POS I-SNP
(available only in Essex
and Plymouth County)
Bristol, Essex,
Franklin, Hampden, Hampshire,
Middlesex, Norfolk, Plymouth,
Suffolk, Worcester
WellSense Health Plan
866-752-2077
https://www.wellsense.org/plans/medicare/ma/s
enior-care-options
HMO-D-SNP
Barnstable, Bristol, Hampden,
Plymouth, Suffolk
C
NOTE: Not all companies offer plan options in every area; premiums may vary by
county. Plans are available for those who have Medicare and MassHealth Standard,
MassHealth Standard only or the Frail Elder Waiver. Call plan directly for details.
Medicare Supplement Plans
Offered in Massachusetts
2026
Comparison of Plans
Core
Supplement 1*
Supplement 1A
Basic Benefits Included In All Plans:
Hospitalization Part A Co-payments
Days 61 - 90: $434 per day
Days 91-150: $868 per day
365 Additional Lifetime Hospital days - Paid in full
Part B Coinsurance
Coverage of coinsurance, in most cases, 20% of
approved amount
Parts A and B Blood
First 3 pints
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Additional Benefits
Part A Deductible for Hospital Days 1 - 60
$1,736 per benefit period
X
X
Skilled Nursing Facility Coinsurance
Days 21-100 - $217.00 per day
X
X
Part B Annual Deductible - $283
X
Foreign Travel - For Medicare-covered services
needed while traveling abroad.
X
X
Inpatient Days in Mental Health Hospitals In
addition to Medicare's coverage of 190 lifetime
days and less any days previously covered by plan
in same benefit period
60 days per
calendar year
120 days per
benefit period
120 days per
benefit period
IMPORTANT NOTICE:
Medicare Supplement premium rates are required to be in effect for not
less than 12 months. Effective dates shown for each Carrier are based
on the most recent filing on record with the Division of Insurance.
*Only available if eligible for Medicare prior to 1/1/2020. Moving
from Supplement 1 to Supplement 1A may be subject to restrictions.
Page 15 of 20
Medicare Supplement Plans
Offered in Massachusetts
2026
Medigap Carriers
Please note that some rates
may change during 2026
Medicare
Supplement Core
Medicare
Supplement 1*
Medicare
Supplement 1A
Blue Cross & Blue Shield of
MA (Medex)1,2
1-800-678-2265 sales/apps
1-800-258-2226 member services
711 (TDD)
www.bluecrossma.com
(continuous open enrollment)
$142.64
Effective 01/01/2026
$288.55
Effective 01/01/2026
$233.24
Effective 01/01/2026
Blue Cross Optional Preventive
Care Benefits Rider
$ 2.88
Effective 01/01/2026
$ 2.88
Effective 01/01/2026
$ 2.88
Effective 01/01/2026
Fallon Health & Life Assurance
Company
1-866-330-6380 sales/apps
1-800-868-5200 member services
TRS 711
www.fallonhealth.org/medsupp
(continuous open enrollment)
$195.50
Effective 01/01/2026
$327.25
Effective 01/01/2026
$240.35
Effective 01/01/2026
HNE Insurance Company
1-877-443-3314
711 (TTY)
www.healthnewengland.org
(continuous open enrollment)
$173.00
Effective 01/01/2026
$300.00
Effective 01/01/2026
$254.00
Effective 01/01/2026
HNE Insurance Company
If you received communication that your former
employer has a contracted relationship with below
marketplaces please call:
•
AON Hewitt: 800-350-1470 or
visit retiree.aon.com
•
Towers Watson: 866-322-2824 or
visit my.viabenefits.com
(continuous open enrollment)
$173.00
Effective 01/01/2026
$300.00
Effective 01/01/2026
$254.00
Effective 01/01/2026
Page 16 of 20
Medicare Supplement Plans
Offered in Massachusetts
2026
Medigap Carriers
Please note that some rates
may change during 2026
Medicare
Supplement Core
Medicare
Supplement 1*
Medicare
Supplement 1A
HPHC Insurance Company, Inc.
1-877-906-4742 sales/apps
1-877-907-4742 member services
711 (TTY)
www.hpforlife.org
(continuous open enrollment)
$177.10
Effective 01/01/2026
$315.15
Effective 01/01/2026
$254.10
Effective 01/01/2026
Humana Benefit of Illinois, Inc.3
1-800-872-7294 sales/apps
1-800-866-0581 member services
1-800-833-3301 (TDD)
www.humana.com
(continuous open enrollment
through March 31, 2026)
$165.14
Effective 06/01/2025
See important
footnote below3
$283.03
Effective 06/01/2025
See important
footnote below3
$235.91
Effective 06/01/2025
See important
footnote below3
Transamerica Life Insurance
Company
1-800-458-5736
(Group Medicare Supplement insurance
sponsored exclusively for eligible members of
the American Medical Association.)
www.amainsure.com
(continuous open enrollment)
1-800-247-1771
(Group Medicare Supplement insurance
sponsored exclusively for eligible members
of the American Institute of Certified
Public Accountants (AICPA))
https://forms.cpai.com/personal-
insurance/medicare-supp/
(continuous open enrollment)
$157.07
Effective 12/01/2025
(Note: the same rate
applies for both AMA
and AICPA coverage)
$271.68
Effective 12/01/2025
(Note: the same rate
applies for both AMA
and AICPA coverage)
$243.43
Effective 12/01/2025
(Note: the same rate
applies for both AMA
and AICPA coverage)
Page 17 of 20
Medicare Supplement Plans
Offered in Massachusetts
2026
Medigap Carriers
Please note that some rates
may change during 2026
Medicare
Supplement Core
Medicare
Supplement 1*
Medicare
Supplement 1A
Tufts Insurance Company
Sales: 1-888-508-1401
Customer Relations:
1-800-701-9000
711 (TTY)
www.thpmp.org/medsupp
(continuous open enrollment)
$167.75
Effective 01/01/2026
$296.45
Effective 01/01/2026
$253.55
Effective 01/01/2026
Tufts Optional Dental Rider
$38.00
Effective 01/01/2026
$38.00
Effective 01/01/2026
$38.00
Effective 01/01/2026
UnitedHealthcare Insurance
Company
Only for members of AARP
www.aarpmedicaresupplement.co
m 1-800-523-5800
(continuous open enrollment)
$176.75
Effective 06/01/2025
$317.50
Effective 06/01/2025
$247.25
Effective 06/01/2025
*Only available if eligible for Medicare prior to 1/1/2020. Moving from Supplement 1 to
Supplement 1A may be subject to restrictions.
NOTE: If new to Medicare, check with each plan to see what discounts they may offer.
1Medex Choice is no longer available to new customers, but existing members may remain
enrolled. The premium is $213.03/month in 2025.
2Medigap 2 cannot be sold to new customers after December 31, 2005, but existing
members may remain enrolled. Medex Gold premium is $1,107.54/month in 2026.
3Humana Benefit of Illinois, Inc. has notified the Division that it will stop selling all of its
Medicare Supplement products beginning April 1, 2026, at which time these products will no
longer be available to new customers. All existing members may remain enrolled.
In addition to the above-noted Medicare Supplemental plans, Massachusetts residents may enroll
in Medicare Advantage Plans as well as Part D Prescription Drug Plans with the Centers for
Medicare and Medicaid Services ("CMS"). For further information regarding these plans please
visit the following website: https://www.medicare.gov/find-a-plan/questions/home.aspx
Page 18 of 20
2026 Massachusetts Medicare Part D Standalone Prescription Drug Plans
Company
Plan Name/ Plan ID
Monthly
Premium
Monthly
Premium
with
full LIS
Aetna Medicare
(1-833-526-2445)
Aetna Medicare
Prescription Drug Plans
SilverScript Choice (S5601-004)
$32.70
$0
Blue MedicareRx
(1-877-479-2227)
BlueCross BlueShield Prescription Drug
Plans
Blue MedicareRx Value Plus (S2893-001)
$20.70
$0
Blue MedicareRx Premier (S2893-003)*
$238.60
$202.80
Health Care Service Corp
(1-800-735-1459)
HealthSpring Prescription Drug Plans
HealthSpring Assurance RX (S5617-008)
$139.30
$103.50
Humana
(1-800-706-0872)
Humana Prescription Drug Plans
Humana Value Rx (S5884-182)*
$73.60
$37.80
Humana Basic Rx (S5884-102)
$ 8.40
$0
Humana Premier Rx (S5884-149)*
$138.60
$102.80
*Drug Benefit Category = Enhanced Plans
Page 19 of 20
2026 Massachusetts Medicare Part D Standalone Prescription Drug Plans
Company
Plan Name/ Plan ID #
Monthly
Premium
Monthly
Premium
with
full LIS
UnitedHealthcare
(1-888-867-5564)
United HealthCare Prescription Drug
Plans
AARP Medicare Rx Preferred from UHC
(S5921-385)*
$155.10
$119.30
AARP Medicare Rx Saver from UHC
(S5921-348)
$38.70
$2.90
WellCare
(1-866-859-9084)
Wellcare Prescription Drug Plans
WellCare Value Script (S4802-137)*
$16.40
$16.40
WellCare Classic (S4802-076)
$21.70
$0.00
*Drug Benefit Category = Enhanced Plans
Some Medicare beneficiaries may qualify for financial assistance through Low Income Subsidies (LIS),
also known as “Extra Help”. Plans highlighted in blue have a $0 premium for beneficiaries with full LIS
(Extra Help).
Page 20 of 20