A recent analysis from KFF highlights continued growth in Medicare Advantage (MA) enrollment, although expansion has slowed compared to previous years. The data also shows increasing participation in Special Needs Plans (SNPs) and shifting enrollment among major insurers.
1. More Than Half of Medicare Beneficiaries Choose Medicare Advantage
Medicare Advantage now covers 55% of all eligible Medicare beneficiaries, a significant increase from 19% in 2007.
2. Enrollment Growth Continues, but at a Slower Pace
Between 2025 and 2026, Medicare Advantage enrollment increased by approximately 1.1 million beneficiaries, representing a 3% growth rate.
3. Medicare Advantage Expected to Keep Growing
The Congressional Budget Office projects that Medicare Advantage enrollment will account for 63% of all Medicare beneficiaries by 2034 and remain at that level through at least 2036.
4. Special Needs Plans Drive Most Enrollment Growth
Nearly one-quarter of Medicare Advantage members are now enrolled in Special Needs Plans, and these plans accounted for the majority of enrollment growth during the past year.
5. Chronic Condition SNP Enrollment Surges
Enrollment in Chronic Condition Special Needs Plans (C-SNPs) increased by 45% year over year, reflecting growing demand for plans tailored to beneficiaries with specific health conditions.
6. Dual-Eligible Plans Remain the Largest SNP Category
Most Special Needs Plan enrollment continues to be concentrated in Dual-Eligible Special Needs Plans (D-SNPs), which serve individuals who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid.
7. Medicare Advantage Spending Remains Under Scrutiny
The analysis found that Medicare Advantage payments are projected to exceed spending for comparable beneficiaries in traditional Medicare, contributing to additional federal healthcare expenditures.
8. UnitedHealthcare and Humana Remain Market Leaders
Together, UnitedHealthcare and Humana account for nearly half of all Medicare Advantage enrollment, maintaining their positions as the program’s largest insurers.
9. Humana Posted the Largest Membership Gain
Humana added more Medicare Advantage members than any other insurer between 2025 and 2026, while several other plans also experienced enrollment growth.
10. Some Major Insurers Experienced Enrollment Declines
UnitedHealthcare, Elevance Health, and Aetna each reported declines in Medicare Advantage membership during the past year, reflecting ongoing shifts in the competitive marketplace.
What This Means for Providers
As Medicare Advantage enrollment continues to grow, providers may see an increasing number of patients covered under MA plans and Special Needs Plans. Understanding payer trends, plan growth, and changing beneficiary demographics can help practices prepare for evolving reimbursement models, care coordination requirements, and patient population needs.