Highmark remains committed to Medicare Advantage members in 2027

— Consumers encouraged to review options during Annual Enrollment Period as Medicare Advantage continues to evolve

PITTSBURGH (October 1, 2026) — The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) for Medicare coverage in 2027 begins on Thursday, Oct. 15, and Highmark is encouraging Medicare beneficiaries to take time to understand their coverage, compare available options and choose the plan that best fits their health needs. Transparency is a priority for Highmark, and the company is committed to helping members understand what is changing, what is staying the same and where they can turn for support throughout the enrollment process.

Medicare Advantage remains a popular choice for millions of older adults because it combines hospital, medical and, in many cases, prescription drug coverage into one plan, while also offering additional benefits, like dental and vision, that support whole-person health. At the same time, Medicare Advantage plans across the country continue to operate in a challenging environment shaped by rising medical costs, increased use of care, expensive new drugs and regulatory and funding changes that have affected the economics of the program.

“Medicare Advantage continues to play an important role in helping people access affordable, high-quality care,” said Ellen Galardy, Highmark’s President of Medicare Business. “While the industry continues to face financial pressures, we do not expect the same level of disruption for Highmark Medicare Advantage members in 2027 that many consumers experienced during the last Annual Enrollment Period. Our focus remains on offering sustainable products and helping members understand their options.”

Highmark’s 2027 approach balances stability, affordability and long-term sustainability

For 2027, Highmark will continue to operate in all of the states and counties where it offered a Medicare Advantage plan in 2026, however there will be changes that vary by geography and plan, with the changes focused on maintaining affordability and preserving access to meaningful coverage. Depending on the market and plan, consumers may see small to moderate changes to benefits, prescription drug coverage, provider networks or out-of-pocket costs.

Highmark made significant changes to some Medicare Advantage offerings for 2026, as did most health plans across the industry. Those actions were designed to respond to market pressures and support the long-term viability of the program. For 2027, Highmark’s approach, with an emphasis on stability, continues to reflect that same discipline.  To help consumers navigate the open enrollment period, Highmark continues to prioritize clear communication and support for its members.

“We know changes to health coverage can feel personal and sometimes confusing,” Galardy said. “That is why Highmark is committed to communicating clearly, supporting members through any transitions and continuing to advocate for policies that strengthen Medicare Advantage for the people who rely on it.”

Highmark continues to offer value for Medicare members

Highmark’s Medicare portfolio is designed to give members options, including Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Supplemental plans in many areas. Medicare Advantage plans will continue to offer a wide range of premiums, including $0 premiums in some markets, and Highmark will continue to offer many of the benefits that remain popular with consumers, including:

• Dental coverage with $0 copay for routine dental exams & routine dental cleanings twice per year
• Vision coverage with standard collection glasses, lenses and contact lenses covered in full for all plans
• Hearing coverage with routine annual exams that range from $0 - $45
• Quarterly over-the-counter (OTC) allowances will remain a core benefit for many of our plans
• Virtual Physical Care available at no additional cost and covered on all Medicare Advantage Direct Pay plans
• Virtual Mental Health Care that includes virtual therapy and medical management (via providers); digital tools (like self-guided exercises) and education

Specific 2027 benefits and pricing will vary by plan and market and should be reviewed beginning Oct. 1.

The best Medicare coverage choice depends on each person’s doctors, prescriptions, health needs, budget and preferences. Some beneficiaries may value lower monthly premiums, while others may prioritize broader provider access, lower expected out-of-pocket costs, prescription drug coverage or supplemental benefits that support daily health and wellness.

Highmark’s local presence and nonprofit mission also inform its approach to Medicare. The company remains focused on investing in the health of the communities it serves, working with providers to support access to high-value care and advocating for a Medicare Advantage program that remains strong and sustainable over time.

For questions about Medicare or Highmark’s 2027 Medicare plans, consumers can call a Licensed Medicare Adviser at 1-800-318-1487 (TTY 711). Consumers can also visit Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to learn about all plan options available in their area. To learn more about Highmark’s 2027 Medicare plans or enroll in coverage online, consumers can visit Highmark’s Medicare website and enter their zip code.

Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield and Highmark Blue Shield are Medicare Advantage HMO, PPO, and/or Part D plans with Medicare contracts. Enrollment in these plans depends on contract renewal.

Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield, which serves western and northeastern Pennsylvania, Delaware, West Virginia and western New York, and Highmark Blue Shield, which serves central and southeastern Pennsylvania and northeastern New York, are independent licensees of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association.

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