Based on CMS star ratings, premiums, MOOP costs and coverage features, we identified Ohio's best Medicare Advantage plans. Wellcare leads for HMO-POS plans while Humana tops PPO options, with both providers offering competitive pricing and broad benefits. SummaCare Medicare Advantage Plans provides the state's best HMO coverage with a $20 average monthly premium, $4,099 average MOOP, and an impressive 4.5 CMS star rating.
Best Medicare Advantage Plans in Ohio (2026)
Updated: March 13, 2026
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Key Takeaways
Ohio residents can select from 38 Medicare Advantage plans across 15 providers, covering HMO, HMO-POS, PPO, PFFS and Regional PPO plan types. Eleven plans carry $0 monthly premiums, though costs increase to $193 based on provider and coverage level.
In Ohio, SummaCare Medicare Advantage Plans delivers the strongest HMO coverage, with Wellcare and Humana leading HMO-POS and PPO options respectively.
Finding your ideal Medicare Advantage plan in Ohio means considering which health care providers you need access to, what prescriptions you fill monthly, and what fits your budget.
Best Medicare Advantage Companies in Ohio
| HMO | SummaCare Medicare Advantage Plans | 4.50 | $20 | $4,099 | SummaCare Medicare Quartz (HMO) |
| HMO-POS | Wellcare | 3.00 | $30 | $4,700 | Wellcare Assist (HMO-POS) |
| PPO | Humana | 3.99 | $0 | $9,150 | HumanaChoice H5216-395 (PPO) |
Medicare Advantage plans bundle hospital stays, doctor visits and prescription drug coverage into one comprehensive package through private insurers. These Part C plans must cover everything Original Medicare does while adding dental, vision and hearing benefits.
- CMS Star Ratings: Plans earn ratings from 1 to 5 stars based on quality and performance. Higher scores reflect better customer satisfaction and care, with 4- and 5-star plans consistently outperforming lower-rated options.
- Monthly premiums: You'll pay your Part B premium plus any additional plan costs. Many plans charge no extra monthly premium, though your total depends on coverage level and location.
- Maximum out-of-pocket (MOOP) limits: This annual spending cap protects you from runaway medical costs. Once you hit your MOOP limit, your plan covers 100% of eligible services for the rest of the year.
- Drug coverage: Most plans include prescription drug coverage. Check your plan's drug list to confirm your medications are covered and note any usage restrictions.
SummaCare
Best HMO
MoneyGeek Rating
4.5/ 5
4/5Affordability
5/5Quality
5/5Availability
CMS Star Rating
4.5Plan Types
HMO, HMO-POS
WellCare
Best HMO-POS
MoneyGeek Rating
5/ 5
5/5Affordability
5/5Quality
5/5Availability
CMS Star Rating
3.0Plan Types
HMO-POS
Humana
Best PPO
MoneyGeek Rating
4.4/ 5
4.6/5Affordability
4/5Quality
5/5Availability
CMS Star Rating
3.99Plan Types
PPO, Regional PPO, PFFS, HMO-POS, HMO
Best HMO Medicare Advantage Plans in Ohio
Ohio's HMO Medicare Advantage market offers strong quality across the board, with 25 of 33 available plans earning 4 stars or higher from CMS. Ten providers serve the state, and 21 plans charge no monthly premium; the median cost is $0. Out-of-pocket maximums average $5,180 annually, ranging from $3,600 to $7,900.
- SummaCare Medicare Advantage Plans leads Ohio with a MoneyGeek score of 4.48, offering four plans with 4.5-star ratings, an average monthly premium of $ 20, and an average out-of-pocket maximum of $4,099.
- MediGold follows at 4.42 with four plans, no monthly premium, a $3,900 average out-of-pocket maximum and 4.5-star CMS ratings.
- Devoted Health rounds out the top three at 4.24 across 10 plans with no monthly premium, though its $5,304 average out-of-pocket maximum runs higher than the other two. CMS rates Devoted Health at 4.0 stars.
| SummaCare Medicare Advantage Plans | 4.50 | $20 | $4,099 | 4 | 4.48 |
| MediGold | 4.50 | $102 | $3,900 | 4 | 4.42 |
| Devoted Health | 4.00 | $4 | $5,304 | 10 | 4.24 |
| Zing Health | 2.50 | $0 | $4,371 | 2 | 4.16 |
| Cigna HealthCare | 3.00 | $0 | $5,223 | 3 | 4.13 |
| The Health Plan | 3.50 | $0 | $5,177 | 1 | 4.10 |
| UPMC for Life | 4.50 | $26 | $5,500 | 4 | 4.09 |
| Medical Mutual of Ohio | 4.00 | $46 | $4,143 | 3 | 4.03 |
| Aetna | 3.00 | $0 | $6,900 | 1 | 3.98 |
| Humana | 3.50 | $16 | $6,550 | 1 | 3.94 |
WHY CHOOSE AN HMO PLAN?
HMO plans use smaller provider networks and require you to choose a primary care physician who'll coordinate your care. You'll need referrals to see specialists, but these plans cost significantly less than other options.
Best HMO-POS Medicare Advantage Plans in Ohio
Quality ratings look strong across Ohio's HMO-POS Medicare Advantage market, with 20 plans earning 4 CMS stars and just 2 plans rated at 3 stars. Nine providers offer 36 total plans, and 23 of them cost nothing monthly. Maximum out-of-pocket costs average $5,246 but range widely from $2,800 to $8,500.
- Wellcare ranks first for HMO-POS Medicare Advantage coverage in Ohio with a perfect 5.0 MoneyGeek score, offering 2 plans with 3-star CMS ratings at $30 monthly and $4,700 maximum out-of-pocket costs.
- The remaining top providers all earn similar scores, with PrimeTime Health Plan at 4.5 across 3 plans averaging $115 monthly, $4,000 MOOP and 4.5-star ratings.
- SummaCare Medicare Advantage Plans also scores 4.5 with 2 plans at $157 monthly premium and the state's lowest $2,800 MOOP, while Medical Mutual of Ohio offers 1 plan with a 4-star rating, $0 premium and $4,200 out-of-pocket maximum.
| Wellcare | 3.00 | $30 | $4,700 | 2 | 5.00 |
| PrimeTime Health Plan | 4.50 | $115 | $4,000 | 3 | 4.50 |
| SummaCare Medicare Advantage Plans | 4.50 | $157 | $2,800 | 2 | 4.50 |
| Medical Mutual of Ohio | 4.00 | $0 | $4,200 | 1 | 4.45 |
| Humana | 3.50 | $0 | $4,873 | 5 | 4.39 |
| Aetna | 3.93 | $14 | $5,384 | 4 | 4.36 |
| UnitedHealthcare | 4.00 | $23 | $5,651 | 14 | 4.30 |
| Paramount Elite Medicare Plans | 3.50 | $36 | $4,167 | 3 | 3.99 |
| Anthem | 4.00 | $17 | $7,611 | 2 | 3.93 |
WHY CHOOSE AN HMO-POS PLAN?
HMO-POS plans cost less than PPO plans and allow you to see out-of-network doctors without a referral. You'll pay more out-of-network. But you won't get stuck if your regular doctor isn't available or you need a specialist across state lines.
Best PPO Medicare Advantage Plans in Ohio
Ohio's PPO Medicare Advantage plans charge monthly premiums from $0 to $149 with a $14 median, costing more than HMO options but giving you greater freedom to choose healthcare providers. Out-of-pocket maximums average $6,383 and range from $3,450 to $9,250 across the state's 31 available plans. Quality remains strong with 15 plans earning 4 stars or higher, including 8 plans with 4.5-star ratings and 7 plans with 4-star ratings. The remaining plans include 14 with 3.5-star ratings and just 1 with a 3-star rating.
- Humana leads the Buckeye State's PPO market with a 5.0 MoneyGeek score and 11 plan options that average $0 monthly with a $9,150 maximum out-of-pocket limit, though it carries a 3.99 CMS star rating.
- Aetna ranks second with a 4.7 MoneyGeek score and offers 3 plans at $25 average monthly premium, the lowest cost among top providers, with a $5,295 MOOP and stronger 4.4-star quality rating.
- Devoted Health takes third place with a 4.57 MoneyGeek score across 2 plans that average $0 per month, a $5,300 out-of-pocket limit, and 4.0-star CMS rating.
| Humana | 3.99 | $0 | $9,150 | 11 | 5.00 |
| Aetna | 4.40 | $25 | $5,295 | 3 | 4.74 |
| Devoted Health | 4.00 | $0 | $5,300 | 2 | 4.57 |
| MediGold | 4.00 | $10 | $5,700 | 2 | 4.40 |
| Medical Mutual of Ohio | 4.50 | $79 | $5,304 | 4 | 4.25 |
| UnitedHealthcare | 3.50 | $45 | $6,700 | 3 | 4.00 |
| Anthem | 4.00 | $43 | $6,773 | 3 | 3.97 |
| Cigna HealthCare | 3.00 | $0 | $9,076 | 1 | 3.88 |
| The Health Plan | 3.50 | $55 | $6,300 | 2 | 3.74 |
WHY CHOOSE A PPO PLAN?
PPO plans cost more than other Medicare Advantage options, but they deliver maximum healthcare freedom for Ohio residents who value choice above savings. You can see any specialist without referrals and access out-of-network providers when needed, though staying in-network keeps costs lower.
How to Choose the Best Ohio Medicare Advantage Plan
Your ideal Medicare Advantage plan depends on balancing your medical needs, costs and how much provider choice you want. Evaluate these elements when selecting Ohio coverage:
- 1Confirm Your Doctors and Hospitals Are In-Network
Contact your doctors and hospitals to verify they're in the plan's network, not just with the insurance company generally. Each plan from the same insurer can have different provider networks.
- 2Compare Total Costs, Not Just Premiums
Plans with no premium may carry higher out-of-pocket costs through copays and deductibles. Factor in your expected medication expenses and typical specialist visits when calculating annual costs.
- 3Check Prescription Drug Coverage
Review the drug list to verify your prescriptions are included and check which tier they're in. You'll pay more for higher-tier medications, and some drugs need prior approval from the plan.
- 4Compare Different Plan Types
Pick an HMO plan type for the lowest premiums and coordinated care through your primary doctor. HMO-POS works if you want occasional out-of-network flexibility. PPO suits frequent travelers or those wanting unrestricted specialist access.
- 5Review Star Ratings and Quality Metrics
Star ratings measure plan quality, service and member satisfaction on a 1-5 scale. Higher-rated plans—especially those with 4 or 5 stars—deliver superior care and customer service.
- 6Compare Extra Benefits
Many Ohio Medicare Advantage plans include dental, vision, hearing, fitness memberships and over-the-counter allowances. Prioritize extras that match your health needs.
- 7Check Out-of-Pocket Maximums
Out-of-pocket maximums protect you from excessive medical expenses by capping what you pay annually. Plans with lower caps offer stronger financial protection but charge higher monthly premiums.
How Much Does Medicare Advantage Cost in Ohio?
In Ohio, Medicare Advantage costs range from most affordable HMOs to pricier PPOs. HMO plans offer the best value with $0 median premiums and $26 average monthly costs, though they carry $5,180 average out-of-pocket maximums. HMO-POS plans run slightly less at $24 average monthly with similar $5,245 MOOP limits. PPOs top the cost range at $14 median and $30 average monthly premiums, with $6,383 average out-of-pocket maximums that nearly double HMO amounts since they allow you to see any provider without referrals.
| HMO | $0 | $26 | $5,180 |
| HMO-POS | $0 | $24 | $5,245 |
| PFFS | $37 | $37 | $3,950 |
| PPO | $14 | $30 | $6,383 |
| Regional PPO | $84 | $84 | $6,900 |
Best Ohio Medicare Advantage: FAQ
Get answers about Medicare Advantage enrollment processes, what's covered and enrollment timing for Ohio residents.
How do you get a Medicare Advantage plan in Ohio?
Enroll through Medicare.gov, insurance companies, or brokers during open enrollment (Oct. 15 to Dec. 7) or when first Medicare-eligible. You need Medicare Parts A and B. Coverage begins Jan. 1 or during other qualifying periods.
What does Medicare Advantage cover?
Medicare Advantage plans cover everything Original Medicare does, including hospital stays and doctor visits, plus most include prescription drugs and extra benefits like dental and vision.
What's the difference between Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement?
Medicare Advantage replaces Original Medicare with bundled coverage from private insurers, while Medicare Supplement (Medigap) works alongside Original Medicare to cover deductibles and copays.
When is open enrollment for Medicare Advantage in Ohio?
Ohio residents can enroll in Medicare Advantage during the Annual Enrollment Period from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7. Additional enrollment opportunities exist from Jan. 1 to March 31 for current members.
Our Methodology: How We Ranked Ohio's Best Medicare Advantage Plans
We analyzed Medicare Advantage plans using a weighted scoring system that prioritizes affordability and quality. Our methodology scores three main factors to help you find plans that offer the best value for your health care needs.
- Affordability (50%): Cost accounts for half of our overall score because it affects your budget. We evaluated monthly premiums for Part C and Part D coverage combined (30% weight) and in-network maximum out-of-pocket limits (20% weight). Plans with lower premiums and MOOP amounts score higher since they reduce your total annual health care spending.
- Star Ratings (40%): CMS star ratings measure plan quality across categories like care effectiveness, customer service and member satisfaction. The Overall Star Rating combines both Part C (medical coverage) and Part D (prescription drug) ratings on a scale from 1 to 5 stars. Plans with higher ratings earn better scores in our analysis.
- Availability (10%): We score providers based on how many states they operate in, including Washington, D.C. Providers with broader geographic availability score higher because they're more likely to maintain coverage if you move and often have more resources for customer support and plan improvements.
This scoring system helps you compare plans objectively while accounting for what matters most: what you'll pay and the quality of care you'll receive.
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.