Fewer Medicare Advantage contracts earned top Star Ratings for 2027, adding another consideration for agents helping clients evaluate coverage options.
A new analysis from Mark Farrah Associates shows that several Medicare Advantage insurers experienced declining Star Ratings for 2027. The findings highlight continued pressure on plan quality scores as insurers navigate changing CMS performance standards.
For independent insurance agents, these shifts reinforce the importance of reviewing plan quality alongside benefits, provider networks, prescription coverage, and costs.
According to Mark Farrah Associates' November 5, 2026 report, the number of Medicare Advantage contracts receiving a 5-star rating declined from 22 in 2026 to just 15 in 2027.
Other findings include:
CMS separately reports that approximately 71% of Medicare Advantage-Prescription Drug (MA-PD) enrollees are currently in contracts rated four stars or higher for 2027.
These figures illustrate an important distinction: fewer contracts are achieving the highest ratings, but many beneficiaries remain enrolled in highly rated coverage.
CMS Star Ratings measure plan performance across areas such as preventive care, chronic-condition management, member experience, and customer service.
Although ratings are only one factor in selecting coverage, changes can influence how beneficiaries compare available plans.
During the 2027 Annual Enrollment Period, agents should:
For additional guidance, see 10 Questions Agents Should Ask During Every Medicare Annual Review.
Star Rating adjustments arrive as the Medicare Advantage market experiences broader changes, including plan exits, benefit adjustments, and shifting carrier strategies.
Agents should consider these developments together rather than evaluating ratings in isolation.
Read more: 2027 Medicare Advantage Market: Fewer Plans, Shifting Competition, and New Opportunities.
At PSM Brokerage, we help independent insurance agents navigate a changing Medicare marketplace through carrier access, enrollment technology, product training, compliance resources, and dedicated account management.
As Star Ratings and plan offerings evolve, having access to multiple carriers and current market information can help agents make more informed recommendations.
The takeaway: Star Ratings remain an important quality indicator, but successful client reviews require looking at the complete coverage picture.
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