Cigna Medicare Advantage Plans 2026 — Complete Review
Cigna Medicare Advantage plans in 2026 are among the most competitive Medicare Advantage options available to American seniors in select markets across the United States. Cigna — now operating as The Cigna Group following its acquisition of Express Scripts — is one of the largest health insurance companies in the world and offers Medicare Advantage plans in dozens of states with a focus on integrated pharmacy and medical benefits. In this complete review we break down everything you need to know about Cigna Medicare Advantage plans in 2026 — plan types, costs, coverage, extra benefits, star ratings, pros and cons — so you can decide whether Cigna Medicare Advantage plans are the right choice for your healthcare needs. All information is sourced from Medicare.gov and Cigna.com.
Also Read —Medicare Advantage vs Medigap — Which is Better in 2026?
What You Will Learn — Cigna Medicare Advantage Plans 2026
- What Cigna Medicare Advantage plans are available in 2026
- How much Cigna Medicare Advantage plans cost in 2026
- What Cigna Medicare Advantage plans cover in 2026
- Cigna Medicare Advantage extra benefits including Healthy Today card
- Cigna Medicare Advantage star ratings 2026
- Pros and cons of Cigna Medicare Advantage plans 2026
- How Cigna Medicare Advantage compares to competitors
- How to enroll in Cigna Medicare Advantage 2026
- Frequently asked questions about Cigna Medicare Advantage plans 2026
What Are Cigna Medicare Advantage Plans?
Cigna Medicare Advantage plans are private health insurance plans offered by Cigna Healthcare — part of The Cigna Group — that replace your Original Medicare coverage. Cigna Medicare Advantage plans are approved and regulated by Medicare and must cover everything Original Medicare covers plus usually significant additional benefits including dental, vision, hearing, and prescription drug coverage.
Cigna is one of the largest global health insurance companies with operations in more than 30 countries. In the United States Cigna Medicare Advantage plans are available in select markets across dozens of states. Cigna’s acquisition of Express Scripts — one of the largest pharmacy benefit managers in the country — gives Cigna Medicare Advantage plans unique pharmacy integration capabilities that benefit Cigna Medicare Advantage members through competitive drug pricing and convenient pharmacy access.
Cigna Medicare Advantage plans receive annual star ratings from Medicare based on quality of care, customer service, and member satisfaction. Cigna Medicare Advantage star ratings vary by plan and location — typically ranging from 3.5 to 4 stars in most markets. Cigna has been working to improve its star ratings and has made significant quality improvement investments in recent years.
Cigna Medicare Advantage plans are available in select markets — unlike UnitedHealthcare and Humana which are available in all 50 states Cigna Medicare Advantage is concentrated in specific metropolitan areas and markets where Cigna has the strongest provider networks. Always check Medicare.gov plan finder to confirm whether Cigna Medicare Advantage plans are available in your specific zip code.
Types of Cigna Medicare Advantage Plans in 2026
Cigna offers several types of Medicare Advantage plans in 2026 depending on the market. Understanding each plan type helps you choose the right Cigna Medicare Advantage option.
Cigna Medicare Advantage HMO Plans
Cigna Medicare Advantage HMO plans require you to use Cigna’s network of local doctors and hospitals. You choose a primary care physician who coordinates your care and provides referrals to specialists. Cigna Medicare Advantage HMO plans typically offer the lowest premiums and lowest out-of-pocket costs among Cigna plan types.
Popular Cigna Medicare Advantage HMO plans in 2026 include:
- Cigna Preferred Medicare HMO — Cigna’s most popular HMO plan
- Cigna TotalCare HMO — comprehensive benefits with coordinated care focus
- Cigna Value Medicare HMO — lower premium essential coverage option
Cigna Medicare Advantage PPO Plans
Cigna Medicare Advantage PPO plans give you more flexibility to see doctors both inside and outside the Cigna network. No referrals are required for specialists. You pay less when using in-network providers but can access out-of-network providers at higher cost.
Popular Cigna Medicare Advantage PPO plans in 2026 include:
- Cigna Preferred Medicare PPO — Cigna’s most flexible plan option
- Cigna Connect Medicare PPO — broad access PPO with comprehensive benefits
Cigna Medicare Advantage Special Needs Plans
Cigna Medicare Advantage Special Needs Plans are designed for people with specific health conditions or circumstances:
- Chronic Condition SNPs — for diabetes, cardiovascular disease, chronic lung conditions
- Dual Eligible SNPs — D-SNPs for people with both Medicare and Medicaid
- Cigna has expanded its SNP offerings significantly in recent years particularly for dual eligible beneficiaries
Cigna Medicare Advantage Plans Cost 2026
How much do Cigna Medicare Advantage plans cost in 2026? Cigna Medicare Advantage costs vary by location, plan type, and specific plan. Here is an overview of Cigna Medicare Advantage costs in 2026:
Cigna Medicare Advantage Monthly Premium 2026
Many Cigna Medicare Advantage plans offer $0 additional monthly premium beyond the standard Medicare Part B premium of $185.00 per month. Some Cigna Medicare Advantage plans charge additional monthly premiums ranging from $0 to $80 per month depending on the level of coverage and location.
Total monthly cost for $0 premium Cigna Medicare Advantage plan:
- Medicare Part B premium — $185.00 per month
- Cigna Medicare Advantage additional premium — $0
- Total monthly cost — $185.00 per month
Cigna Medicare Advantage Part B Premium Reduction
Some Cigna Medicare Advantage plans offer a Part B premium reduction — also called the giveback benefit — in 2026. This benefit credits back a portion of your $185.00 monthly Part B premium to your Social Security check. Some Cigna Medicare Advantage plans offer Part B premium reductions of $25 to $100 or more per month — effectively reducing your total Medicare costs below the standard $185 per month.
Cigna Medicare Advantage Deductible 2026
Many Cigna Medicare Advantage plans have $0 medical deductible in 2026. Some plans have deductibles ranging from $100 to $400 for certain services. Drug deductibles can be up to $590 in 2026 depending on the plan’s formulary structure.
Cigna Medicare Advantage Copays 2026
Cigna Medicare Advantage plans use copays rather than 20% coinsurance. Typical Cigna Medicare Advantage copays in 2026:
- Primary care visit — $0 to $10 per visit
- Specialist visit — $20 to $45 per visit
- Urgent care — $40 to $85 per visit
- Emergency room — $90 to $150 per visit
- Inpatient hospital stay — $200 to $450 per day for days 1 to 5
Cigna Medicare Advantage Out-of-Pocket Maximum 2026
All Cigna Medicare Advantage plans include an annual out-of-pocket maximum of $9,350 for in-network services in 2026. After reaching this limit Cigna covers 100% of your covered in-network costs for the rest of the year. This protection is one of the most important financial safeguards Cigna Medicare Advantage offers over Original Medicare which has no out-of-pocket cap.
Cigna Medicare Advantage Extra Benefits 2026
Cigna Medicare Advantage plans offer significant extra benefits beyond Original Medicare in 2026. These extra benefits are one of the primary reasons seniors choose Cigna Medicare Advantage.
Dental Coverage
Cigna Medicare Advantage dental coverage in 2026 typically includes:
- Preventive dental care — exams, cleanings, X-rays — usually fully covered twice per year
- Basic restorative care — fillings and simple extractions
- Major dental work on enhanced plans
- Annual dental benefit maximum — typically $1,000 to $2,500 per year
- Enhanced dental plans with higher limits available in select markets
Vision Coverage
Cigna Medicare Advantage vision benefits in 2026 typically include:
- Annual routine eye exam — fully covered
- Eyeglass or contact lens allowance — typically $100 to $300 per year
- Discounts at participating optical providers
Hearing Coverage
Cigna Medicare Advantage hearing benefits in 2026 typically include:
- Annual hearing exam — covered
- Hearing aid allowance — typically $500 to $2,000 per pair depending on plan
Prescription Drug Coverage
Most Cigna Medicare Advantage plans include Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage at no additional premium. Cigna’s Express Scripts pharmacy benefit manager integration provides competitive drug pricing and convenient pharmacy access. Key features:
- Coverage for hundreds of generic and brand-name medications
- Annual out-of-pocket drug maximum of $2,000 in 2026
- Insulin cap of $35 per month per product
- Express Scripts mail-order pharmacy for 90-day supply at lower cost
- Extensive preferred pharmacy network
The Healthy Today Card — Cigna’s Signature Benefit
The Healthy Today Card is Cigna’s unique over-the-counter benefit card — available on most Cigna Medicare Advantage plans in 2026. The Healthy Today Card works like a prepaid debit card that you can use to purchase approved health-related products at participating retailers.
Healthy Today Card benefits in 2026:
- Quarterly or monthly allowance — typically $25 to $150 per quarter
- Use at participating retailers including CVS, Walmart, Walgreens, and others
- Approved products include vitamins, pain relievers, first aid supplies, dental products, and other health items
- Some plans allow Healthy Today Card funds to be used for groceries, utilities, or other essential items on enhanced plans
The Healthy Today Card is one of Cigna’s most distinctive Medicare Advantage benefits and provides tangible monthly value for Medicare beneficiaries.
Fitness Benefits
Many Cigna Medicare Advantage plans include fitness benefits in 2026. Cigna offers access to fitness programs through its SilverSneakers partnership on select plans — providing free membership at thousands of fitness centers nationwide.
Telehealth Services
Cigna Medicare Advantage plans include 24/7 telehealth access in 2026 — allowing you to see a doctor virtually from home for non-emergency medical needs. Telehealth visits are typically covered at $0 copay on most Cigna plans.
Transportation Benefits
Some Cigna Medicare Advantage plans include transportation benefits covering rides to and from medical appointments — particularly valuable for seniors who do not drive.
Cigna Medicare Advantage Star Ratings 2026
Medicare gives every Medicare Advantage plan a star rating from 1 to 5 stars based on quality of care, customer service, and member satisfaction. Cigna Medicare Advantage star ratings in 2026 vary by plan and location — typically ranging from 3.5 to 4 stars in most markets.
Cigna has been making significant investments in quality improvement to raise its star ratings. In some markets Cigna Medicare Advantage plans have earned 4 to 4.5 star ratings. However Cigna’s average star rating is generally slightly below UnitedHealthcare and some other major Medicare Advantage providers.
You can check the current Medicare star rating for specific Cigna Medicare Advantage plans in your area by visiting Medicare.gov plan finder. Star ratings are updated annually by Medicare.
Cigna Medicare Advantage Pros and Cons 2026
Cigna Medicare Advantage Pros
- Low or $0 monthly premiums on many plans in covered markets
- Annual out-of-pocket maximum of $9,350 for in-network services
- Comprehensive dental, vision, and hearing benefits
- Prescription drug coverage included at no additional premium
- Express Scripts pharmacy integration — competitive drug pricing
- Healthy Today OTC card — unique tangible monthly benefit
- Part B premium reduction available on select plans
- 24/7 telehealth access at $0 copay on most plans
- SilverSneakers fitness benefit on select plans
- Transportation benefits on some plans
Cigna Medicare Advantage Cons
- Not available in all zip codes — more limited geographic coverage than UHC and Humana
- Star ratings slightly below top competitors in some markets
- Network restrictions — must use Cigna network providers for lowest costs
- Referrals required on HMO plans
- Prior authorization required for some procedures
- Plan benefits and costs change every year
- Some markets have received below-average star ratings
How Cigna Medicare Advantage Compares to Competitors 2026
| Feature | Cigna | UnitedHealthcare | Humana | Aetna |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| National Availability | Select markets | ✅ All 50 states | ✅ All 50 states | ✅ Most states |
| $0 Premium Plans | ✅ Many markets | ✅ Many markets | ✅ Many markets | ✅ Many markets |
| OTC Benefit | ✅ Healthy Today Card | ✅ OTC allowance | ✅ OTC allowance | ✅ OTC allowance |
| Fitness Benefit | ✅ SilverSneakers select | ✅ Renew Active | ✅ SilverSneakers | ✅ SilverSneakers |
| Star Rating Average | 3.5-4 stars | 4-4.5 stars | 3.5-4 stars | 3.5-4.5 stars |
| Pharmacy Integration | ✅ Express Scripts | ⚠️ Standard | ⚠️ Standard | ✅ CVS integration |
| Part B Giveback | ✅ Select plans | ✅ Select plans | ✅ Select plans | ✅ Select plans |
| AARP Partnership | ❌ No | ✅ Exclusive | ❌ No | ❌ No |
Cigna Medicare Advantage stands out from competitors primarily through its Express Scripts pharmacy integration — providing competitive drug pricing and convenient mail-order pharmacy access — and the Healthy Today OTC card which provides tangible monthly value. However Cigna’s more limited geographic availability compared to UnitedHealthcare and Humana means it is not an option for all Medicare beneficiaries.
How to Enroll in Cigna Medicare Advantage Plans 2026
You can enroll in Cigna Medicare Advantage plans during these enrollment periods:
Initial Enrollment Period The 7-month window around your 65th birthday. This is the best time to enroll in Cigna Medicare Advantage for coverage starting on your 65th birthday.
Annual Open Enrollment Period October 15 to December 7 each year. Switch to a Cigna Medicare Advantage plan or change your existing plan. Changes take effect January 1.
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period January 1 to March 31. Switch from your current Medicare Advantage plan to Cigna Medicare Advantage.
How to enroll:
- Online at Cigna.com
- By phone — call Cigna Medicare at 1-800-668-3813
- Through a licensed Medicare insurance agent or broker
- Through Medicare.gov plan finder
Always verify your preferred doctors and hospitals are in the Cigna Medicare Advantage plan network before enrolling. Confirm the Healthy Today Card benefit details and OTC allowance amount for your specific plan before enrolling.
Frequently Asked Questions — Cigna Medicare Advantage Plans 2026
Are Cigna Medicare Advantage plans good in 2026?
Cigna Medicare Advantage plans are competitive in the markets where they are available. Cigna offers strong extra benefits including the Healthy Today OTC card, Express Scripts pharmacy integration, and competitive dental and vision benefits. Cigna’s star ratings of 3.5 to 4 stars are solid though slightly below the top performers. Always check whether Cigna is available in your specific zip code as Cigna does not offer plans in all markets.
How much do Cigna Medicare Advantage plans cost in 2026?
Many Cigna Medicare Advantage plans have $0 additional monthly premium beyond the standard Part B premium of $185.00 per month. Some Cigna plans charge additional premiums of $0 to $80 per month. Some Cigna Medicare Advantage plans offer Part B premium reductions that can lower your effective total cost. Always compare specific Cigna plans available in your zip code for accurate 2026 pricing.
What is the Cigna Healthy Today Card?
The Cigna Healthy Today Card is Cigna’s unique over-the-counter benefit card available on most Cigna Medicare Advantage plans. It works like a prepaid debit card loaded with a quarterly or monthly allowance — typically $25 to $150 per quarter — that you can use to purchase approved health-related products at participating retailers including CVS, Walmart, and Walgreens.
Does Cigna Medicare Advantage cover dental and vision?
Yes — most Cigna Medicare Advantage plans include dental and vision coverage. Dental coverage typically includes preventive care fully covered and basic restorative work up to an annual maximum of $1,000 to $2,500. Vision coverage includes one annual eye exam and an eyeglass allowance of $100 to $300 per year.
Is Cigna Medicare Advantage available in my area?
Cigna Medicare Advantage is available in select markets — not all zip codes. Use Medicare.gov plan finder and enter your zip code to see if Cigna Medicare Advantage plans are available in your area. Cigna has been expanding into new markets in recent years so coverage is growing annually.
What is the Cigna Medicare Advantage out-of-pocket maximum in 2026?
The out-of-pocket maximum for in-network services under Cigna Medicare Advantage plans is $9,350 in 2026. After reaching this limit Cigna covers 100% of covered in-network healthcare costs for the rest of the year.
Does Cigna Medicare Advantage include prescription drug coverage?
Yes — most Cigna Medicare Advantage plans include Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage. Cigna’s Express Scripts pharmacy benefit manager integration provides competitive drug pricing and convenient mail-order pharmacy access. The $2,000 annual drug out-of-pocket maximum and $35 monthly insulin cap apply.
Summary — Cigna Medicare Advantage Plans 2026
Cigna Medicare Advantage plans in 2026 offer competitive coverage with low or $0 monthly premiums, comprehensive dental and vision benefits, prescription drug coverage with Express Scripts pharmacy integration, and the unique Healthy Today OTC card that provides tangible monthly value. Cigna is a solid Medicare Advantage option in the markets where it is available — particularly for seniors who value the Express Scripts mail-order pharmacy benefit and the Healthy Today OTC card.
The key limitations of Cigna Medicare Advantage are its more limited geographic availability compared to UnitedHealthcare and Humana and its star ratings that are generally slightly below the top competitors. Always use Medicare.gov plan finder to check whether Cigna Medicare Advantage is available in your zip code and compare it against other available plans.
For free unbiased help comparing Cigna Medicare Advantage plans contact your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) counselor at shiphelp.org or call Medicare free at 1-800-633-4227.
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not medical or financial advice. Always verify current Cigna Medicare Advantage plan details at Medicare.gov and Cigna.com before making enrollment decisions.
Sources: Medicare.gov | CMS.gov | Cigna.com | AARP.org
Last updated: April 2026 | Author: James Carter, Independent Medicare Research Analyst
