Best Medicare Advantage Plans in Texas (2026)

Key Takeaways

Texas has 172 Medicare Advantage plans from 16 providers across HMO, HMO-POS, PPO and Regional PPO plan types, with most plans charging no monthly premium and providing enhanced Part D drug coverage.

Devoted Health is the best HMO Medicare Advantage provider in Texas, while Alignment Health Plan is best for HMO-POS and Wellcare is best for PPO.

Compare Texas Medicare Advantage plans based on your specific healthcare needs, including which doctors and hospitals you want to access, your prescription medications and your budget for premiums and out-of-pocket costs.

Best Medicare Advantage Providers in Texas

We analyzed the best Medicare Advantage plans across Texas to identify top providers for different plan types. Our research focused on CMS star ratings, premium costs and maximum out-of-pocket expenses to determine which insurers have the best value and coverage.

Devoted Health leads for HMO plans with a perfect 5-star CMS rating and $0 monthly premiums, though its $3,847 average maximum out-of-pocket cost is higher than other options. Alignment Health Plan takes the top spot for HMO-POS plans, combining a strong 4.5-star rating with a $0 average premium and $2,950 average MOOP. Wellcare has the best PPO option at $0 per month, providing the network flexibility PPO members value despite a higher $5,439 maximum out-of-pocket limit.


HMO	Devoted Health	5.00	$0	$3,847	DEVOTED GIVEBACK 008 TX (HMO)
HMO-POS	Alignment Health Plan	4.50	$0	$2,950	Alignment Health smartHMO (HMO-POS)
PPO	Wellcare	3.50	$0	$5,439	Wellcare Simple Open (PPO)

Medicare Advantage Plans Explained

Medicare Advantage, also known as Part C, is an all-in-one alternative to Original Medicare through private insurance companies. These plans combine hospital and medical coverage and often include prescription drug benefits, while still providing everything covered under Parts A and B. Many plans also go beyond basic coverage with extras such as dental, vision, and hearing benefits.

CMS Star Ratings: Medicare evaluates plans on a 1- to 5-star scale that measures overall quality, member satisfaction, and care coordination. Plans rated 4 stars or higher are considered top performers.
Monthly Premiums: In addition to your standard Part B premium, some plans charge an extra monthly amount, though many Medicare Advantage options have $0 premiums depending on the plan and where you live.
Maximum Out-of-Pocket (MOOP) Limits: These annual caps limit how much you spend on covered medical care in a year. After reaching this limit, the plan pays the full cost of covered services for the remainder of the year.
Prescription Drug Coverage: Most Medicare Advantage plans include Part D prescription coverage. It’s important to review the plan’s drug list to ensure your medications are covered and to understand any rules such as prior authorization or quantity limits.

Devoted Health

Best HMO

MoneyGeek Rating

5/ 5

5/5Affordability

5/5Quality

5/5Availability

CMS Star Rating
5.0
Plan Types
HMO, PPO

pros
- Perfect 5-star CMS rating for HMO plans
- No monthly premium on 11 of 12 plans
- Enhanced Part D drug coverage included with all plans
cons
- PPO plan has lower 3.5-star CMS rating
- MOOP limits range from $3,450 to $9,250
Devoted Health is the best HMO Medicare Advantage provider in Texas, earning a perfect 5-star CMS rating and offering 11 HMO plans statewide. The provider's average MOOP across HMO plans is $3,847, giving Texas seniors predictable costs with consistently high customer satisfaction ratings. All Devoted Health HMO plans include enhanced Part D drug coverage, and 10 of the 11 plans charge no monthly premium, with only the DEVOTED PREMIUM 002 TX plan charging $5 monthly.

Devoted Health also has a single PPO option, DEVOTED CHOICE GIVEBACK 001 TX, which has a $0 monthly premium and a $7,550 MOOP but a lower 3.5-star CMS rating. While the PPO’s broader network allows members to see out-of-network providers when needed and still includes enhanced Part D coverage, other PPO plans in Texas have higher CMS ratings and lower out-of-pocket limits.

Alignment Health Plan

Best HMO-POS

MoneyGeek Rating

5/ 5

5/5Affordability

5/5Quality

5/5Availability

CMS Star Rating
4.5
Plan Types
HMO-POS

pros
- No monthly premium on all three HMO-POS plans
- 4.5-star CMS rating across all plans
- HMO-POS structure allows out-of-network provider access when needed
cons
- Limited selection with only three plans
- Lowest MOOP plan doesn't waive Part D deductibles
- Out-of-network care costs more than in-network services
Alignment Health Plan leads the HMO-POS market in Texas with three highly rated plans, each earning a 4.5-star CMS rating. All three plans eliminate monthly premiums while still providing enhanced Part D prescription drug coverage. The ONE + Walgreens plan has the second lowest maximum out-of-pocket (MOOP) limit for HMO-POS plans in the state at just $2,950, making it a strong choice for seniors who expect higher healthcare use. The smartHMO and smartSavings plans share the same $6,450 MOOP, allowing beneficiaries to choose based on differences in coverage details and provider networks. Two of the three plans also waive Part D deductibles on select drug tiers, helping reduce upfront medication costs. As HMO-POS plans, all three provide added flexibility by allowing members to see out-of-network providers when needed, delivering a balance of affordability and access that appeals to many Texas seniors.

WellCare

Best PPO

MoneyGeek Rating

4.6/ 5

5/5Affordability

4.2/5Quality

3.7/5Availability

CMS Star Rating
3.5
Plan Types
HMO, HMO-POS, PPO

pros
- No monthly premium
- Competitive $5,439 MOOP, lower than the Texas PPO average of $6,944
- Enhanced Part D drug coverage
- PPO structure allows nationwide provider access without referrals
cons
- 3.5-star CMS rating falls below some competitors
- Out-of-network care costs more than in-network services
Wellcare stands out among Texas Medicare Advantage PPO options thanks to its $0 monthly premium and a competitive $5,439 maximum out-of-pocket limit. The Wellcare Simple Open plan stands out with enhanced Part D prescription drug coverage, including drug tiers with no deductible that help reduce upfront medication costs. While its 3.5-star CMS rating is lower than some competitor 4-star plans, Wellcare delivers strong overall value through straightforward pricing and a comprehensive benefits package.

The PPO structure allows Texas seniors to see any Medicare-approved provider without referrals, making the plan especially appealing for those who travel frequently, live part of the year in another location, or want access to out-of-network specialists. With only one PPO plan available in Texas, Wellcare also simplifies the decision-making process by removing the need to compare multiple options.

Best Texas HMO Medicare Advantage Providers

Texas seniors have access to 61 HMO Medicare Advantage plans from 10 providers, with the vast majority (53 plans) charging no monthly premium. Plans include maximum out-of-pocket limits ranging from $2,900 to $9,250, averaging $4,513 annually, while the average CMS star rating across all HMO options is 3.94, with 37 plans earning 4 stars or higher. Nearly every plan (60 of 61) includes enhanced Part D drug coverage.

Devoted Health leads Texas HMO options with a perfect 5-star CMS rating across 11 plans, no monthly premiums and a $3,847 average MOOP.
Wellcare matches Devoted's top MoneyGeek score with just three plans averaging $5 monthly and a competitive MOOP at $3,707, though its 3.65-star CMS rating lags behind.
Prominence Health Plan rounds out the top three with a 4.5-star rating across four plans, charging just $2 monthly with a $3,517 average MOOP.


Devoted Health	5.00	$0	$3,847	11	5.00
Wellcare	3.65	$5	$3,707	3	5.00
Prominence Health Plan	4.50	$2	$3,517	4	4.46
Memorial Hermann Health Plan	3.50	$0	$3,400	1	4.37
Aetna	4.00	$0	$5,061	5	4.31
Humana	3.73	$4	$3,617	24	4.27
KelseyCare Advantage	4.50	$0	$3,900	1	4.22
Cigna HealthCare	4.00	$0	$5,397	4	4.13
Blue Cross Blue Shield	2.54	$0	$5,199	6	3.95
CHRISTUS Health Advantage	3.50	$7	$4,393	2	3.63

HMO PROS AND CONS

HMO Medicare Advantage plans have lower premiums and out-of-pocket costs in exchange for staying within a network of providers and requiring referrals to see specialists. You'll save money but sacrifice flexibility, making HMOs ideal if you're comfortable with a primary care physician coordinating your care and don't need to see out-of-network doctors.

Best Texas HMO-POS Medicare Advantage Providers

There are 45 HMO-POS Medicare Advantage plans available in Texas from six providers. While 37 plans eliminate monthly premiums entirely, the HMO-POS category shows higher average costs at $18 monthly compared to standard HMOs due to the added flexibility of seeing providers outside the network. Maximum out-of-pocket limits span $2,900 to $9,250 with a $5,474 average, slightly higher than HMO plans but granting peace of mind for those who occasionally need out-of-network care. All 45 plans bundle Part D prescription coverage, with 44 providing enhanced benefits and 42 waiving deductibles on certain drug tiers, making medications more affordable from day one.

Alignment Health Plan claims the top spot among Texas HMO-POS providers with three zero-premium plans averaging an exceptionally low $2,950 MOOP and a high 4.5-star CMS rating.
KelseyCare Advantage takes second place with a single 4.5-star plan featuring no premium but a higher $6,750 MOOP, appealing to seniors prioritizing quality over out-of-pocket protection.
UnitedHealthcare has the most variety with 36 plans averaging $9 monthly, balancing a strong 4.48-star CMS rating with a $5,459 average MOOP across its extensive portfolio.


Alignment Health Plan	4.50	$0	$2,950	3	5.00
KelseyCare Advantage	4.50	$0	$6,750	1	4.54
UnitedHealthcare	4.48	$9	$5,459	36	4.49
Prominence Health Plan	4.50	$0	$4,700	1	4.27
Wellpoint	3.50	$0	$3,425	2	4.17
Wellcare	4.00	$0	$8,018	2	4.14

HMO-POS PROS AND CONS

HMO-POS Medicare Advantage plans combine the lower costs of traditional HMOs with the flexibility to see out-of-network providers when needed, though you'll pay more for out-of-network care. This hybrid structure works well if you want affordable premiums and predictable costs but occasionally need access to specialists or providers outside your network, especially when traveling.

Best Texas PPO Medicare Advantage Providers

Texans have access to 57 PPO Medicare Advantage plans across nine providers at an average monthly premium of $15 though 44 plans charge no premium at all. This plan type has higher maximum out-of-pocket limits averaging $6,944 and ranging from $4,200 to $9,250 due to the higher expense of maintaining out-of-network access. Star ratings tell an interesting story here, averaging 3.66 with most plans (26) earning 3.5 stars, showing that while PPOs deliver flexibility, they don't always match the customer satisfaction scores of more restrictive plan types. Every PPO plan includes enhanced Part D prescription coverage, and 54 of 57 waive deductibles on certain medication tiers, ensuring drug costs remain manageable despite higher overall premiums.

Wellcare leads Texas PPO options with a zero-premium structure, moderate $5,439 MOOP and 3.5-star CMS rating.
Humana follows closely with the broadest selection, including 23 plans with 4-star CMS ratings and zero premiums, though the high $7,950 average MOOP is one of the most expensive in the state.
Aetna secures third place with four plans charging just $4 monthly on average, delivering a $6,832 MOOP and 3.65-star CMS rating that splits the difference between affordability and comprehensive nationwide access.


Wellcare	3.50	$0	$5,439	1	4.56
Humana	4.00	$0	$7,950	23	4.50
Aetna	3.65	$4	$6,832	4	4.30
Clover Health	3.50	$0	$6,350	1	4.25
UnitedHealthcare	3.51	$0	$6,951	13	4.24
Baylor Scott & White Health Plan	4.00	$53	$5,832	3	4.13
Cigna HealthCare	3.11	$0	$7,061	2	3.97
Devoted Health	3.50	$0	$7,550	1	3.96
Blue Cross Blue Shield	3.00	$38	$7,484	9	3.47

PPO PROS AND CONS

PPO Medicare Advantage plans are the most flexible, letting you see any Medicare-approved provider without referrals, both in-network and out-of-network, though out-of-network care costs more. You'll usually pay higher premiums and maximum out-of-pocket costs than HMO plans, making PPOs ideal if you travel frequently, want to keep specific doctors, or value the freedom to see specialists without getting permission first.

How to Find the Best Texas Medicare Advantage Plans

To find the right Texas Medicare Advantage plan for you, it’s important to evaluate multiple factors beyond monthly premiums. Focus on these key considerations to find coverage that fits your healthcare needs and budget:

1
Check Your Doctor and Hospital Network
Verify that your current doctors, specialists and preferred hospitals accept the plan you're considering. HMO plans require you to use in-network providers except for emergencies, while PPO plans are more flexible at higher costs. Learn more about health insurance network types.
2
Compare Maximum Out-of-Pocket Costs
Look beyond the monthly premium to understand your potential financial exposure. A plan with a $0 premium but $7,833 MOOP could cost more than one with a $29 premium and $6,750 MOOP if you need frequent medical care.
3
Review Prescription Drug Coverage
Check whether your medications are covered under the plan's formulary and what tier they fall into. Some Medicare Advantage plans include prescription drug coverage while others require a separate Part D plan.
4
Evaluate Additional Benefits
Medicare Advantage plans often include extra benefits like dental, vision, hearing aids, fitness memberships and transportation to medical appointments. Compare which additional services each plan includes and whether they match your needs.
5
Consider CMS Star Ratings
Review the plan's CMS star rating, which measures quality and performance on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Higher-rated plans typically provide better customer service, care coordination and health outcomes.

Average Texas Medicare Advantage Cost

Medicare Advantage costs in Texas vary by plan type and network structure. Plans with more restricted networks cost less in both premiums and out-of-pocket expenses than those that have broader provider access.

HMO plans are the cheapest Medicare Advantage options in the state with a $0 median premium and $4,513 average maximum out-of-pocket expense. HMO-POS plans cost $18 monthly on average with a $5,474 MOOP. PPO plans average $15 per month with a $6,944 MOOP, while there is only one PFFS plan available in the state for $29 monthly. Regional PPO plans are most expensive at $81 average monthly premium and $7,833 MOOP.


HMO	$0	$1	$4,513
HMO-POS	$0	$18	$5,474
PFFS	$29	$29	$6,750
PPO	$0	$15	$6,944
Regional PPO	$97	$81	$7,833

Best Texas Medicare Advantage: FAQ

These answers address common questions about Medicare Advantage coverage in Texas:

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

You can enroll during the Annual Enrollment Period from October 15 to December 7, the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period from January 1 to March 31, or during a Special Enrollment Period if you qualify due to moving or losing other coverage.

Does Medicare Advantage cover prescription drugs in Texas?

Most Medicare Advantage plans in Texas include prescription drug coverage, but you should verify your specific medications are on the plan's formulary. Check which tier your drugs fall into, as this affects your copay costs at the pharmacy.

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

Moving to a new county may affect your plan availability since Medicare Advantage networks vary by location. Contact your current plan within 30 days of moving to see if coverage continues, or use your Special Enrollment Period to choose a new plan.

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

We reviewed Medicare Advantage plans in Texas using a weighted scoring model designed to emphasize both cost and quality. Our approach focuses on three core criteria to help identify plans that have the strongest overall value for your healthcare coverage.

Affordability (50%): Costs account for half of the total score because of their direct impact on what you pay. We analyzed combined monthly premiums for Part C and Part D coverage (weighted at 30%) along with in-network maximum out-of-pocket (MOOP) limits (weighted at 20%). Plans with lower premiums and lower MOOP thresholds earn higher scores, as they help minimize annual healthcare expenses.
Star Ratings (40%): CMS star ratings measure plan performance in areas such as quality of care, customer service, and member experience. The Overall Star Rating blends Part C (medical benefits) and Part D (prescription drug coverage) scores into a single rating on a 1 to 5 scale. Plans with higher star ratings perform better in our evaluation.
Availability (10%): We also consider each insurer’s geographic footprint across the United States. Providers serving more states receive higher scores, as broader availability often signals stronger infrastructure, better support, and greater continuity if you relocate.

Together, these factors allow for an objective comparison of Medicare Advantage plans, balancing what you’ll pay with the level of care and service you can expect.

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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