Medicare Star Ratings
A 1-to-5 star quality score Medicare gives to Medicare Advantage and Part D plans each year.
Medicare Star Ratings are CMS's annual quality scores for Medicare Advantage (Part C) and Part D prescription drug plans. Plans get an overall rating from 1 to 5 stars, plus separate scores for areas like staying healthy, managing chronic conditions, member experience, member complaints, customer service, and drug plan performance. Ratings come out each fall and apply to the next plan year. Higher-rated plans usually have better access to preventive care, smoother claims, and stronger member satisfaction. A 5-star plan also unlocks a special 5-Star Special Enrollment Period: anyone in the plan's service area can switch into a 5-star plan once between December 8 and November 30. CMS uses Star Ratings to award bonus payments to high-performing Medicare Advantage plans, and many plans reinvest those bonuses into extra benefits. Star Ratings are a quick first filter when choosing or comparing plans on Medicare.gov.
In real life
- A retiree picks a 4.5-star Medicare Advantage plan because of its strong customer service score.
- A 5-star plan in her area lets a member use the 5-Star SEP to switch in February.
- An employer reviewing retiree options compares Star Ratings before recommending plans.
Also known as
Frequently asked questions about Medicare Star Ratings
What does a 5-star rating unlock?+
A Special Enrollment Period that lets eligible beneficiaries switch into the 5-star plan once a year.
When are ratings updated?+
Each fall for the upcoming plan year.
Are Star Ratings the only thing that matters?+
No. Compare premium, drug coverage, network, and benefits too.
Where can I find Star Ratings?+
Medicare.gov Plan Finder shows ratings for every plan in your area.
Source: cms.gov