Best Medicare Advantage Plans in Alabama (2026)

Key Takeaways

Alabama residents can choose from 40 Medicare Advantage plans from seven insurers, including HMO, HMO-POS, PPO and regional PPO options. Many plans have $0 monthly premiums, though costs reach up to $163 per month depending on the plan type and level of coverage.

Top Alabama Medicare Advantage providers include Humana for PPO plans, Cigna HealthCare for HMO and UnitedHealthcare for HMO-POS.

When selecting a Medicare Advantage plan, weigh factors like monthly premiums, maximum out-of-pocket limits, provider networks and prescription drug benefits.

Best Medicare Advantage Providers in Alabama

We reviewed the best Medicare Advantage plans in Alabama to identify leading insurers across major plan types. Our analysis focused on CMS star ratings, monthly premiums and maximum out-of-pocket limits.

Cigna HealthCare has the best Medicare Advantage HMO plans with a 4.0 CMS star rating and a low $6 monthly premium. UnitedHealthcare offers the most competitive HMO-POS options, averaging $18 per month with $5,725 maximum out-of-pocket (MOOP) limits. For PPO flexibility, Humana combines a 4.0-star rating with a $3,000 maximum out-of-pocket limit, though at a higher $28 average monthly cost.


HMO	Cigna HealthCare	4.00	$6	$5,636	HealthSpring Preferred (HMO)
HMO-POS	UnitedHealthcare	3.75	$18	$5,725	AARP Medicare Advantage from UHC AL-0003 (HMO-POS)
PPO	Humana	4.00	$28	$3,000	HumanaChoice H5216-368 (PPO)

Medicare Advantage Plans Explained

Medicare Advantage offers an alternative to Original Medicare through private insurance companies that bundle hospital and medical coverage. These plans add prescription drugs, dental, vision, and hearing benefits that aren't covered under traditional Medicare.

CMS Star Ratings: Medicare scores plans from 1 to 5 stars based on quality of care and member satisfaction. Plans with 4 or 5 stars consistently deliver better healthcare outcomes and customer service.
Monthly premiums: You'll pay your regular Part B premium plus any additional plan costs. Many Medicare Advantage plans in Alabama charge $0 extra monthly premiums beyond your standard Part B payment.
Maximum out-of-pocket (MOOP) limits: This annual cap protects you from unlimited medical expenses each year. Once you hit this limit, your plan covers all remaining costs for covered services.
Prescription drug coverage: Most plans include Part D medication benefits built into the package. Check that your current prescriptions appear on the plan's drug list before enrolling.

Cigna

Best HMO

MoneyGeek Rating

4.8/ 5

4.8/5Affordability

5/5Quality

3.9/5Availability

CMS Star Rating
4.0
Plan Types
HMO, PPO

pros
- HMO plans earn 4-star CMS rating
- 4 of 5 plans charge $0 monthly premium
- Enhanced Part D drug coverage in all plans
cons
- PPO plan has 3-star CMS rating
- No HMO-POS plans
- Out-of-pocket maximums from $4,726 to $7,793
Cigna HealthCare's four HMO Medicare Advantage plans in Alabama earn a 4.0-star CMS rating and average $5,636 in out-of-pocket maximums. Three plans charge $0 monthly premiums, while the HealthSpring Preferred Plus (HMO) costs $20 per month. All four HMO options include enhanced Part D drug coverage and offer broad provider networks, though members must use in-network doctors and specialists to receive maximum benefits.

The provider's single PPO option, HealthSpring True Choice (PPO), has $0 premium and includes enhanced Part D coverage but has a lower 3.0-star CMS rating. This PPO plan provides out-of-network flexibility.

UnitedHealthcare

Best HMO-POS

MoneyGeek Rating

5/ 5

5/5Affordability

5/5Quality

5/5Availability

CMS Star Rating
3.75
Plan Types
HMO-POS, PPO

pros
- Three plans have $0 monthly premium
- Plans earn 3.75-star average CMS rating
- Out-of-network provider access
cons
- Higher costs for out-of-network care
- Only one PPO plan
UnitedHealthcare's four HMO-POS plans all include enhanced Part D prescription drug coverage and earn an average of 3.75-star CMS ratings. The AARP Medicare Advantage AL-6 plan caps annual costs at $4,900 with a $31 monthly premium.

The AARP AL-0003 plan has a $0 monthly premium despite its higher $5,900 spending cap, while the AARP AL-0002 plan's cap is $5,400 annually with $40 monthly premiums. All of the provider's HMO-POS plans provide out-of-network access when needed, giving you greater flexibility in choosing a provider.

Humana

Best PPO

MoneyGeek Rating

5/ 5

5/5Affordability

5/5Quality

5/5Availability

CMS Star Rating
4.0
Plan Types
Regional PPO, PPO, HMO

pros
- $3,000 average MOOP for PPO plans beats state average of $5,747
- Two $0 premium PPO plans
- HMO and PPO plans
cons
- Average 4.0 star CMS rating
- Higher costs for out-of-network care
Humana is the best Medicare Advantage PPO provider in Alabama, offering a strong combination of affordability, flexibility and quality ratings. There are eight PPO plans and four HMO options available statewide.

The HumanaChoice H5216-368 plan is top in Alabama’s PPO market with a $20 monthly premium and a low $3,000 maximum out-of-pocket limit. The plan includes enhanced Part D prescription drug coverage, featuring waived deductibles on select drug tiers to reduce upfront medication costs. Its 4.0-star CMS rating reflects consistent performance and quality care.

Best Alabama HMO Medicare Advantage Providers

Alabama seniors have access to several affordable Medicare Advantage HMO options, with 11 of the state's 15 plans charging $0 monthly premiums. Out-of-pocket maximums range from $1,900 to $9,250, averaging $6,177 annually. The average CMS star rating for these plans sits at 3.83, and 11 plans earn 4 stars or higher. All 15 HMO options include enhanced Part D drug coverage.

Cigna HealthCare has the best Medicare Advantage HMO plans in the state with 4.0 stars across four plans, offering 3 plans with $0 monthly premiums and $5,636 average MOOP.
Humana has four HMO plans averaging $7 monthly with a 3.67 average star rating and $5,748 maximum out-of-pocket costs.
Aetna offers only one plan charging $0 monthly with 3.5 stars and $6,750 MOOP.


Cigna HealthCare	4.00	$6	$5,636	4	4.81
Humana	3.67	$7	$5,748	4	4.46
Aetna	3.50	$0	$6,750	1	4.16
Devoted Health	3.50	$0	$6,202	2	4.12
VIVA Medicare	4.00	$48	$7,841	4	3.75

HMO PROS AND CONS

HMO Medicare Advantage plans offer affordable premiums and coordinated care, but you'll need to stay within their provider network and get referrals for specialists. HMO plans work well if you're comfortable having a primary care physician manage your care and don't regularly need out-of-network providers.

Best Alabama HMO-POS Medicare Advantage Providers

HMO-POS plans in Alabama offer added flexibility by covering limited out-of-network care, making them a good fit for members who occasionally need services beyond their primary network. UnitedHealthcare offers four HMO-POS plans in the state, including two with $0 monthly premiums, while the average premium is $17 per month.

Maximum out-of-pocket limits range from $4,900 to $6,700, with an average of $5,725 per year. Although higher than standard HMO costs, these limits provide extra protection for members who value broader access to care. All plans include Part D prescription drug coverage and enhanced benefits, with an average CMS rating of 3.75 stars.

UnitedHealthcare is the only HMO-POS provider in the state, with four plans averaging 3.75 stars, including two $0 premium options and $5,725 average MOOP limits.


UnitedHealthcare	3.75	$18	$5,725	4	5.00

HMO-POS PROS AND CONS

HMO-POS plans might work well for you. These plans keep most of the cost benefits of standard HMOs while letting you visit out-of-network providers when necessary, though you'll pay more for that flexibility. They're useful for residents who travel frequently or need out-of-network care.

Best Alabama PPO Medicare Advantage Providers

PPO Medicare Advantage plans deliver the freedom to see out-of-network providers, but that flexibility comes with higher costs. There are 20 PPO options available in Alabama from six insurers, with average monthly premiums of $22, although 11 plans have $0 premiums.

Maximum out-of-pocket limits are higher than other plan types, averaging $5,747 and ranging from $1,800 to $9,250 due to added out-of-network coverage. PPO plans earn an average CMS rating of 3.8 stars in the state, with most plans receiving 3.5 stars, reflecting slightly lower satisfaction than more restrictive network options. All PPO plans include enhanced Part D prescription coverage, and 18 of the 20 waive deductibles on select drug tiers.

Humana has the best PPO plans in the state, with eight plans earning an average 4.0-star rating at a $28 average premium with a low $3,000 average MOOP.
Blue Cross Blue Shield has three PPO options charging a higher $163 monthly premium but delivering a lower $2,900 MOOP and 3.5-star CMS rating.
UnitedHealthcare rounds out the top three with one plan charging $0 monthly and featuring a $6,700 MOOP and 4.0-star CMS rating.


Blue Cross Blue Shield	3.50	$163	$2,900	3	5.00
Humana	4.00	$28	$3,000	8	5.00
UnitedHealthcare	4.00	$0	$6,700	1	4.44
Aetna	4.50	$11	$9,156	3	4.06
Cigna HealthCare	3.00	$0	$6,800	1	3.97
Devoted Health	3.50	$0	$7,012	4	3.94

PPO PROS AND CONS

PPO Medicare Advantage plans provide the greatest flexibility by letting you choose any Medicare provider without referral. You can access both in-network and out-of-network care, though out-of-network services will cost you more. But you'll pay higher monthly premiums and maximum out-of-pocket costs than more restrictive HMO plans.

How to Find the Best Alabama Medicare Advantage Plans

The best plan isn't just about low premiums. You'll want to verify your doctors are covered, your medications are included and the total costs fit your budget.

1
Check Your Doctor and Hospital Network
Before enrolling in any plan, verify that your current doctors, specialists, and preferred hospitals, such as UAB Hospital in Birmingham or Huntsville Hospital, participate in the plan's network. HMO plans restrict you to in-network providers except for emergencies, while PPO plans allow out-of-network access. Learn more about health insurance network types.
2
Compare Maximum Out-of-Pocket Costs
Examine maximum out-of-pocket costs, which cap your annual expenses for covered services. For example, a plan with a $0 premium but $7,550 maximum out-of-pocket could cost more than one with a $25 premium and $6,700 maximum if you need regular medical care in Mobile or Montgomery.
3
Review Prescription Drug Coverage
Check that your medications appear on the plan's drug formulary and understand their tier placement, which directly affects your prescription costs. Most Medicare Advantage plans in Alabama include Part D drug coverage, though some require separate enrollment. Higher-tier drugs cost more out-of-pocket.
4
Evaluate Additional Benefits
Medicare Advantage plans often provide extras, including dental care, vision services, hearing aids, fitness memberships at locations like the YMCA in Tuscaloosa, and transportation to medical appointments.
5
Consider CMS Star Ratings
Review each plan's CMS star rating, which evaluates quality and performance on a scale from one to five stars. These ratings reflect member satisfaction, care coordination and health outcomes across Alabama providers.

Average Alabama Medicare Advantage Cost

Network design plays a major role in Alabama Medicare Advantage costs, with more restrictive plans generally offering the greatest savings. Plans that allow broader provider access tend to come with higher monthly premiums and increased annual out-of-pocket exposure.

HMO-POS plans offer the strongest overall value, with an average premium of $18 per month and the lowest average maximum out-of-pocket cost at $5,725. Standard HMO plans average $19 per month with a $6,178 MOOP, while PPO plans cost about $22 monthly with a $5,748 MOOP. Regional PPO plans are the most expensive, averaging $86 per month in premiums and a $6,500 MOOP, reflecting their wider networks and added out-of-state coverage.


HMO	$0	$19	$6,178
HMO-POS	$16	$18	$5,725
PPO	$0	$22	$5,748
Regional PPO	$86	$86	$6,500

Best Alabama Medicare Advantage: FAQ

Get answers about Alabama Medicare Advantage plans:

When can I enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan in Alabama?

In Alabama, you can enroll during the Annual Enrollment Period from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7, or the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period from Jan. 1 to March 31. You may also enroll during a Special Enrollment Period if you qualify due to circumstances like relocating or losing other coverage.

Does Medicare Advantage cover prescription drugs in Alabama?

Most Medicare Advantage plans in Alabama include prescription drug benefits as part of their coverage. Before enrolling, confirm your medications appear on the plan's formulary and review their tier levels, which directly impact your out-of-pocket costs at the pharmacy.

Do I need to change Medicare Advantage plans if I move to a different county in Alabama?

Moving counties in Alabama may require changing your Medicare Advantage plan since provider networks are location-specific. Notify your current plan within 30 days of relocating to determine if coverage continues in your new area, and utilize the Special Enrollment Period to select an alternative plan if needed.

Our Methodology: How We Chose the Best Alabama Medicare Advantage Plans

MoneyGeek analyzed Medicare Advantage plans in Alabama using a scoring system:

Affordability (50%): Costs represent half the total score due to their immediate effect on your spending. We analyzed combined monthly premiums for Part C and Part D coverage (weighted at 30%) and in-network maximum out-of-pocket limits (weighted at 20%). Plans with lower premiums and MOOP thresholds score higher by reducing annual health care expenses.
Star Ratings (40%): CMS star ratings evaluate plan performance in care quality, customer service and member experience. The Overall Star Rating merges Part C (medical benefits) and Part D (prescription drug coverage) scores into one rating on a 1 to 5-star scale. Higher-rated plans score better in our evaluation.
Availability (10%): We consider each insurer's coverage area across the United States. Providers serving more states score higher, as broader availability indicates more robust infrastructure, better support and better continuity if you relocate.

These factors create a fair comparison of Medicare Advantage plans, weighing costs against care quality and service.

About Mark Fitzpatrick

Mark Fitzpatrick, a Licensed Property and Casualty Insurance Producer, is MoneyGeek's resident Personal Finance Expert. He has analyzed the insurance market for over five years, conducting original research for insurance shoppers. His insights have been featured in CNBC, NBC News and Mashable.

Fitzpatrick holds a master’s degree in economics and international relations from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. He's also a five-time Jeopardy champion!

He writes about economics and insurance, breaking down complex topics so people know what they're buying.

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