2023 Medicare Advantage Plans in Illinois
Find Plans in your area with your ZIP Code
What are the Best Medicare Advantage Plans in Illinois?
If you live in Illinois and you're thinking about enrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan, you're not alone. This year nearly half (48%) of all people with Medicare will join a Medicare Advantage plan because they want lower costs, more benefits, and access to more doctors and other healthcare providers.
If you’re looking for the best Medicare Advantage plans available in your Illinois community, that suit your individual needs, MedicareWireMedicareWire is a Medicare insurance consulting agency. We founded MedicareWire after seeing and hearing how confusing and frustrating it is to find, understand, and choose a plan. Our services are free to the consumer. is here to assist. Using the overview of the Illinois market below, and our other online tools, you will get a clear understanding of your top plan options, who the top-rated plan providers are, and how much you should expect to pay each month for a plan.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Medicare Advantage PlansMedicare Advantage (MA), also known as Medicare Part C, are health plans from private insurance companies that are available to people eligible for Original Medicare (Medicare Part A and Medicare Part B). are available to U.S. citizens and legal U.S. residents living in Illinois who are enrolled in Original MedicareOriginal Medicare is private fee-for-service health insurance for people on Medicare. It has two parts. Part A is hospital coverage. Part B is medical coverage..
- Insurance plans are offered by private health insurance companies and provide an alternative way to receive Medicare benefits in your Illinois County.
- Medicare Advantage Plans in Illinois are required to provide at least the same benefits as Original Medicare, but they may also provide additional benefits such as vision, dental, and hearing coverage.
- Plans may also offer prescription drug coverage, which is not available with Original Medicare. A stand-alone Medicare Part DMedicare Part D plans are an option Medicare beneficiaries can use to get prescription drug coverage. Part D plans provide cost-sharing on covered medications in four different phases:Â deductible, initial coverage, coverage gap, and catastrophic. Each... plans available in Illinois can be added if the health plan does not include Part D.
- Medicare Advantage Plans in Illinois may have different cost-sharing requirements than Original Medicare, such as copaymentsA copayment, also known as a copay, is a set dollar amount you are required to pay for a medical service., coinsuranceCoinsurance is a percentage of the total you are required to pay for a medical service. , and deductiblesA deductible is an amount a beneficiary must pay for their health care expenses before the health insurance policy begins to pay its share.. Be sure to compare plans, including prices, quality and affordable out-of-pocket costsOut-of-Pocket Costs for Medicare are the remaining costs that are not covered by the beneficiary's health insurance plan. These costs can come from the beneficiary's monthly premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments., to determine the best Medicare insurance for your situation.
- Medicare Advantage Plans in Illinois may also have different provider networks than Original Medicare, so it is important to make sure that your preferred doctors and hospitals are in-networkDoctors, hospitals, pharmacies, and other healthcare providers that agree to health plan members' services and supplies at a set price are in-network providers. With some health plans, your care is only covered if you get....
- Medicare Advantage insurance has specific open enrollment periods. Unlike Medicare Supplement plans, you cannot join, switch, or drop a plan outside of an enrollment period.
Call 1-855-728-0510 (TTY 711) for assistance. There's no obligation.
Who Has The Best Plans in Illinois?
The Centers for Medicare & MedicaidMedicaid is a public health insurance program that provides health care coverage to low-income families and individuals in the United States. Service (CMS) rates and reviews Illinois's Medicare Advantage plans based on a 5-star rating scale. Information from members and data provided by plans is used to determine a plan's star rating.
Illinois has 5-star Medicare Advantage plans available in 2023. Not all states and locations do. This year, the highest rated Medicare plans available in Illinois come from:
- Essence Healthcare
- Quartz Health Plan
MedicareWire recommends that you evaluate the plans offered by these Illinois health insurance companies, before all others, for this single reason. More stars awarded by CMS typically means members get better results. So, for instance, five-star plan members might receive better service, phone support, and care than those who have a four-star plan.
TIP: Everyone's personal situation is different. And so are Illinois's Medicare Advantage plans. That's why it is so important to understand Medigap vs Medicare Advantage plans The plan with the most services is not necessarily the plan best suited to your needs.
Complete List of Illinois's Providers for 2023
Illinois has 18 providers that offer Medicare Advantage plans. They include:
- Aetna Medicare
- Ascension Complete
- Blue Cross and Blue Shield of IL, NM
- Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois
- Cigna
- Clear Spring Health
- Devoted Health
- Essence Healthcare
- Health Alliance Medicare
- HealthPartners UnityPoint Health
- Humana
- Lasso Healthcare
- Medical Associates Health Plan
- Quartz Health Plan
- UnitedHealthcare
- Wellcare
- WellFirst Health
- Zing Health
Top Ranked 2023 Plans in Illinois
Here are the top-ranked 2023 Medicare Advantage plans in Illinois, according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid ServicesThe Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is the U.S. Federal agency that runs the Medicare, Medicaid, and Children’s Health Insurance Programs.:
Top Medicare Advantage Plans in Illinois
| Provider | Plan ID | Plan Name | Premium | Limit | Stars |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Essence Healthcare | H2610-005 | Essence Advantage (HMO) | $0.00 | $1,950 | 5.0 |
| Essence Healthcare | H2610-006 | Essence Advantage Plus (HMO) | $60.00 | $1,700 | 5.0 |
| Essence Healthcare | H2610-016 | Essence Advantage Select (HMO) | $0.00 | $2,800 | 5.0 |
| Quartz Health Plan | H5262-019 | UW Health IL Quartz Med Advantage Core D (w/Rx) (HMO) | $0.00 | $5,700 | 5.0 |
| Quartz Health Plan | H5262-026 | UW Health IL Quartz Med Advantage Elite D(w/Rx) (HMO) | $63.10 | $3,450 | 5.0 |
| Quartz Health Plan | H5262-018 | UW Health IL Quartz Med Advantage Value D(w/Rx) (HMO) | $27.00 | $4,700 | 5.0 |
| HealthPartners UnityPoint Health | H3416-001 | HealthPartners UnityPoint Health Align (PPO) | $0.00 | $3,900 | 4.5 |
| HealthPartners UnityPoint Health | H3416-002 | HealthPartners UnityPoint Health Symmetry (PPO) | $49.00 | $3,300 | 4.5 |
| Humana | H5216-013 | HumanaChoice H5216-013 (PPO) | $87.00 | $3,450 | 4.5 |
| Humana | H5216-215 | HumanaChoice H5216-215 (PPO) | $0.00 | $3,900 | 4.5 |
| Humana | H5216-318 | HumanaChoice H5216-318 (PPO) | $0.00 | $3,600 | 4.5 |
| Humana | H1468-007 | Humana Gold Plus H1468-007 (HMO) | $0.00 | $3,000 | 4.5 |
| Humana | H5216-251 | HumanaChoice H5216-251 (PPO) | $0.00 | $3,200 | 4.5 |
| Humana | H5216-283 | HumanaChoice H5216-283 (PPO) | $25.00 | $2,900 | 4.5 |
| Humana | H5216-357 | HumanaChoice H5216-357 (PPO) | $95.00 | $1,500 | 4.5 |
| Humana | H1468-013 | Humana Gold Plus H1468-013 (HMO) | $0.00 | $2,500 | 4.5 |
| Humana | H1468-014 | Humana Gold Plus H1468-014 (HMO) | $24.00 | $3,450 | 4.5 |
| Humana | H1468-018 | Humana Community Select (HMO) | $0.00 | $2,500 | 4.5 |
| Humana | H5216-032 | HumanaChoice H5216-032 (PPO) | $70.00 | $6,700 | 4.5 |
| UnitedHealthcare | H2802-028 | AARP Medicare Advantage Plan 1 (HMO-POS) | $0.00 | $2,900 | 4.5 |
| UnitedHealthcare | H2802-052 | AARP Medicare Advantage Plan 2 (HMO-POS) | $0.00 | $3,400 | 4.5 |
| UnitedHealthcare | H5253-108 | AARP Medicare Advantage (HMO-POS) | $25.00 | $3,900 | 4.5 |
| UnitedHealthcare | H2802-024 | AARP Medicare Advantage Access (HMO-POS) | $0.00 | $2,500 | 4.5 |
The top providers listed above do not tell the full story. That's because your Illinois County may or may not have one of the top-rated plans. Unlike Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage plans are regional. Read How Does Medicare Advantage Work to learn more.
Best Plans in Illinois by County
Choose your Illinois County below to see the best (and the worst) 2023 plans.
For fast, friendly assistance call 1-855-728-0510 (TTY 711) .
How to Select The Best Plan
If you’re approaching the age of 65, navigating a special enrollment event, or looking to review your plan options ahead of the Annual Enrollment PeriodThe Annual Enrollment Period is when Medicare beneficiaries can join, drop or change Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D prescription drug plans. AEP begins on 15 October and ends on 7 December., there are a number of details you need to consider when comparing your options.
1. Consider Your Expected Utilization
Do you believe that you will get the most out of your plan's benefits, including hospital inpatient careInpatient care refers to care provided in a hospital or other inpatient facility. Inpatients are admitted and stay at least one night depending on their condition.? If you do, evaluate plans with higher monthly premiumsA premium is an amount that an insurance policyholder must pay for coverage. Premiums are typically paid on a monthly basis. In the federal Medicare program, there are four different types of premiums. , low copayments, and low maximum out-of-pocket limits. Conversely, if your health is good and you rarely use services, look for plans with low premiums or a zero-dollar premium. These plans may have high out-of-pocket maximums and high deductibles, so weigh your risk carefully.
2. Evaluate Your Prescription Costs
For many seniors, prescription drugs are what drive up their healthcare costs the most. And, because most Medicare Advantage plans include Part D benefits for your regular prescriptions, you need to make sure the plan you choose covers your drugs at a price you can afford.
3. Understand Your Additional Coverage Needs
Original Medicare does not all health care costs. It covers your major medical and some preventive care services, but it does not cover dental, vision, hearing, or prescriptions. A growing number of Medicare Advantage plans cover many of the essential services that your Part A and Part BMedicare Part B is medical coverage for people with Original Medicare benefits. It covers doctor visits, preventative care, tests, durable medical equipment, and supplies. Medicare Part B pays 80 percent of most medically necessary healthcare services. benefits do not.
4. Consider Your Healthcare Providers
Most Medicare Advantage plans available in Illinois use local healthcare provider networks to deliver care. But not all specialists and primary care doctors accept all plans. It can be exhausting trying to find a plan you want that your doctors will accept. We can help!
Should I Choose an HMO or PPO plan?
There are many plan options available when shopping for Medicare Advantage plans in Illinois, including HMO and PPO options. These are some of the differences you should consider before making a plan selection.
- With an HMO you may pay less out-of-pocket, but you will need to choose a primary physician to coordinate your care. Referrals for specialists are often required. Except in an emergency, you must remain within the provider network.
- With a PPO you are not required to get referrals for specialty care. You have the option to get health care outside of the plan's provider network. However, typically you will pay more and the out-of-pocket maximum for out-of-network care will be higher.
Need help choosing? Call 1-855-728-0510 (TTY 711) for plan assistance. There's no obligation.
Find Plans in your area with your ZIP Code
Eligibility
Medicare Advantage plans are available to people ages 65 and older. They are also available to individuals with certain disabilities. When eligible, you can generally join one of these Medicare Advantage Plans:
- Health Maintenance Organization (HMO)
- Preferred Provider Organization (PPO)
- Private Fee-for-Service (PFFS)
- Medical Savings Account (MSA) Plan
You must live in the service area (i.e., County) of the plan you want to join. If you reside outside the plan's service area for part of the year, ask if the plan will cover you there. You must also have both Medicare Part AMedicare Part A is hospital coverage for Medicare beneficiaries. It covers inpatient care in hospitals and skilled nursing facilities. It also covers limited home healthcare services and hospice care. and Part B and be a U.S. citizen or a legal resident.
Alternatives
Medicare Advantage Plans are an alternative to Original Medicare coverage. However, there is another option. You can keep your Original Medicare benefits and add one of the best Medicare Supplement plans in Illinois for additional coverage. And, there are Illinois Medicare Part D plans for coverage of prescription drugs.
Many experts feel Medicare Supplement insuranceMedicare Supplements are additional insurance policies that Medicare beneficiaries can purchase to cover the gaps in their Original Medicare (Medicare Part A and Medicare Part B) health insurance coverage. plans offer superior financial coverage and the most flexibility. Plus, benefits rarely change and you can get a policy outside of a Medicare enrollment period. However, plans may not be affordable for all Illinois seniors.
Due to the fact that Medicare Supplement plans cover more costs than Medicare Advantage Plans, their monthly premiums are generally higher. If you cannot afford Medicare's out-of-pocket costs, another alternative is a dual-eligibleDual-eligible beneficiaries are those who receive both Medicare and Medicaid benefits. It includes beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare Part A and/or Part B while receiving full Medicaid and/or financial assistance through a Medicare Savings Program.... Medicare Special Needs Plan in Illinois. D-SNP plans help Illinois seniors who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid. D-SNP plans offer quality care at very affordable prices.
Next Steps
Call 1-855-728-0510 (TTY 711) for assistance. There's no obligation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? These common questions and answers might help.
What are the pros and cons of a Medicare Advantage plan?
Medicare Advantage plans can have some potential drawbacks. Many plans require members to use their provider network. Costs are also heavily influenced by how you use healthcare services. This makes it difficult to budget for healthcare expenses. Most plans require members to get referrals for specialists or authorization before they can receive healthcare services. Learn more about the pros and cons of Medicare Advantage plans.
Do Medicare Advantage plans pay 100% of all costs?
On average, the cost of a Medicare Advantage plan in Illinois is $24.23 (based on 2023 rates). That's just the cost of the monthly premium to be in the plan. If you have chronic health conditions, the plan's out-of-pocket costs, including copays and deductibles, should also be considered. Additionally, Medicare Advantage plans often include Part D prescription drug benefits that have out-of-pocket costs at the pharmacy.
What do Medicare Advantage plans include?
At a minimum, every Medicare Advantage plan sold in Illinois must cover all of the benefits offered in Original Medicare. However, plans are not required to cover healthcare services in the same way. Medicare Part A covers 80% of hospital stays, skilled nursing, home health careHealth care services and supplies a doctor decides you may receive in your home under a plan of care established by your doctor. Medicare only covers home health care on a limited basis as ordered..., and hospiceHospice is a special way of caring for people who are terminally ill. Hospice care involves a team-oriented approach that addresses the medical, physical, social, emotional, and spiritual needs of the patient. care. Part B covers 80% of doctor visits, lab tests, and other outpatient services. But, Medicare Advantage plans can set their own copays, and often charge more than 20%. On the positive side, plans must set an annual out-of-pocket limit.
Methodology and Sources
Our analysis of the top-rated Medicare Advantage plans in Illinois excludes employer group plans, Medicare-Medicaid Plans (MMPs), Medicare Savings Account Plans (MSAs), Special Needs Plans (SNPs), and plans that do not include Part D benefits.
CMS rates and reviews health plans in several categories, including delivery of health care, member experience and customer service. When comparing plan ratings, we use state-specific data, not CMS' nationwide figures.
Medicare Advantage plan data is sourced from CMS public use files (see: Citations & References). When needed, we combined affiliated companies to calculate insurer averages.
Our research does not include Illinois's Medicare Advantage SNP Plans. We evaluate these plans separately. We also did not include plans without Part D benefits for prescription drugs, employer plans, or Medicare-Medicaid Plans (MMPs). If you're not looking for a Medicare Advantage plan but want to cover out-of-pocket costs that Original Medicare plan doesn't cover, MedicareWire also ranked the best Medigap Plans in Illinois.
Citations & References
- CMS.gov, 2023 Medicare Part C Landscape Source Files, Last Accessed January 13, 2023
- CMS.gov, "CMS Releases 2023 Medicare Advantage and Part D Star Ratings", Last Accessed October 6, 2022
- Medicare.gov, "Explore your Medicare coverage options", Last Accessed October 27, 2022
- KFF.org, "Medicare Advantage in 2022: Enrollment Update and Key Trends", Last Accessed November 5, 2022
- Medicare.gov, "Things to know about Medicare Advantage Plans", Last Accessed October 12, 2022
- CMS.gov, Part C and D Performance Data, Last Accessed January 13, 2023
- CMS.gov, Monthly MA Enrollment by State/County/Contract, Last Accessed January 13, 2023
- CMS.gov, Biden-Harris Administration Announces Lower Premiums for Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug Plans in 2023, Last Accessed September 29, 2022
- CMS.gov, Medicare Marketing Guidelines, Last Accessed February 2, 2023
For Researchers
Next State of Best Medicare Advantage Plans:
Previous State of Best Medicare Advantage Plans:
About
Our content follows the guidance provided by the Medicare Marketing Guidelines on CMS.gov. If you believe the information on this page is inaccurate, please contact us.