Medicare Advantage star ratings: what they measure and how to use them
How CMS rates plans from one to five stars, what goes into a rating, the five-star special enrollment period, and the limits of stars when choosing a plan.
CMS rates Medicare Advantage and Part D plans each year on a scale of one to five stars. Ratings appear in the Medicare Plan Finder.
What goes into a rating
- Staying healthy: screenings, tests and vaccines.
- Managing chronic conditions.
- Member experience surveys.
- Complaints, members leaving the plan, and appeals handling.
- Drug plan customer service and pricing accuracy.
The five-star special enrollment period
If a five-star plan is available in your area, you can switch into it once between December 8 and November 30 of the following year. See Special Enrollment Periods.
Low-performing plans
Plans rated below three stars for three years in a row get a warning icon, and members can switch out.
Stars are not everything
A high rating says nothing about whether your doctors are in network or your drugs are covered. Check networks and prior authorization before choosing.
Questions people ask
Who rates Medicare Advantage plans?
CMS, on a one-to-five-star scale.
What is the five-star SEP?
A once-a-year chance to switch into a five-star plan.
Do stars show if my doctor is in network?
No.
What happens to low-rated plans?
Plans below three stars for three years get flagged.
Independent educational site. Not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. government, the federal Medicare program, or any insurance company. Figures are 2026 amounts published by CMS unless noted; check Medicare.gov for your situation.