Top Medicare Advantage Plans in CO 2025

Choosing a Medicare plan can feel a lot like picking a new cell phone plan. Every carrier offers the basics—calls and texts—just like every Medicare Advantage plan must cover hospital and medical services. But the real difference lies in the details. Is the network reliable where you live? What are the extra perks? Similarly, the best health plan for you depends on more than just the basics. It’s about finding one with the right network of doctors, the prescription drug coverage you need, and the extra benefits that fit your life. This guide will help you look beyond the headlines and compare the top advantage plans 2025 co based on what truly matters.

Key Takeaways

Look Beyond the Monthly Premium: A plan’s true cost is more than just its premium. Factor in deductibles, copays, and the annual out-of-pocket maximum, and always check the plan’s drug list to confirm your specific medications are covered.
Make Sure Your Care Is Covered: The best plan for you is one that includes your trusted doctors and hospitals. Before enrolling, verify your providers are in-network and decide if the structure of an HMO or the flexibility of a PPO better fits your lifestyle.
Use Quality Ratings and Extra Perks to Decide: A plan’s value comes from its quality and benefits. Use Medicare’s Star Ratings to check for member satisfaction and compare extra perks like dental, vision, and fitness programs to find a plan that supports your overall health.

What Is a Medicare Advantage Plan?

Think of a Medicare Advantage plan, also known as Part C, as an all-in-one package for your health coverage. Instead of getting your benefits directly from the federal government through Original Medicare (Parts A and B), you choose a plan from a private insurance company that Medicare has approved. These companies must follow Medicare’s rules, but they offer a different way to receive your benefits.

By law, these plans must cover everything that Original Medicare covers. The big difference is that most Medicare Advantage plans don’t stop there. They often bundle your hospital (Part A), medical (Part B), and prescription drug (Part D) coverage into a single, convenient plan. Many also include extra perks that Original Medicare doesn’t cover, like routine dental, vision, and hearing care.

This bundled approach also changes how you pay for care. While many plans advertise a $0 monthly premium, it’s important to know you still have to pay your standard Part B premium to Medicare. When you visit a doctor or hospital, you’ll typically pay a set copay or coinsurance. One of the most valuable features is the annual out-of-pocket maximum. This is a yearly cap on what you’ll spend on medical services, offering a crucial layer of financial protection that Original Medicare lacks.

Most Medicare Advantage plans are managed care plans, which means they use a specific network of doctors, specialists, and hospitals. Using providers within this network keeps your costs down. We’ll explore the different types of networks, like HMOs and PPOs, later in this guide, but it’s a key factor to consider when choosing a plan that fits your life and health needs.

A Look at Colorado’s Top-Rated Medicare Advantage Plans

Colorado offers a fantastic range of Medicare Advantage plans, but having so many choices can feel like a lot to sort through. Think of this list as your starting point. We’ll walk through some of the most popular and highly-rated insurance carriers in the state. Keep in mind that the “best” plan is always the one that fits your life. What works for your neighbor might not be the right fit for you.

As you read, think about what matters most to you. Do you want to keep your current doctors? Are you looking for specific perks like dental coverage or a gym membership? What prescription drugs do you take? The answers to these questions will help you zero in on the right carrier and plan. The companies below are major players in Colorado, known for their quality and service. We’ll give you a snapshot of what makes each one stand out, so you can feel more confident as you begin to compare your options.

The Big 65

Before we get into the insurance carriers, let me explain where we fit in. The Big 65 is not an insurance company. We’re an independent insurance agency, which means our job is to help you make sense of all these options. Think of us as your personal guide. We get to know you and your specific needs—your health, your budget, and your lifestyle—and then help you compare plans from various companies like the ones listed here. Our guidance is always free, and because we’re independent, our focus is entirely on finding the plan that serves you best, not on pushing one carrier over another.

UnitedHealthcare (AARP)

UnitedHealthcare is one of the largest and most recognized names in Medicare, and for good reason. They offer a wide variety of plans across Colorado, often with extensive networks of doctors and hospitals. This is a huge plus if you want flexibility and plenty of choices for your care. Many of their plans also bundle in extra benefits that Original Medicare doesn’t cover, such as dental, vision, and hearing services. If you’re looking for a comprehensive plan from a well-established carrier, UnitedHealthcare is definitely one to look into. They offer both HMO and PPO options, giving you control over how you access your healthcare.

Humana

Humana is another major player in Colorado’s Medicare Advantage market, often praised for its strong customer service and member satisfaction. They are known for offering competitive plans, including many with a $0 monthly premium, which can be a big help for your budget. Humana also puts a strong emphasis on wellness, with many plans including access to the popular SilverSneakers fitness program and other resources to help you stay healthy and active. If you value great support and benefits that encourage a healthy lifestyle, Humana’s plans are worth a close look. They provide a solid, reliable choice for thousands of Coloradans.

Kaiser Permanente

Kaiser Permanente operates a bit differently than other carriers, and for many people, that’s its biggest strength. Kaiser is an integrated health system, which means your health plan, your doctors, and your hospitals are all part of one connected network. This model can lead to incredibly coordinated and seamless care, since all your providers are on the same page. Kaiser consistently earns high marks for quality of care and member experience. The main thing to know is that you’ll need to use Kaiser’s doctors and facilities to be covered. If you like the idea of an all-in-one system, Kaiser is a top-tier choice.

Cigna

Cigna has become a very competitive option in Colorado, known for offering flexible and affordable plans. They have a strong focus on PPO plans, which give you the freedom to see specialists without a referral and get care from out-of-network providers, though usually at a higher cost. Many of Cigna’s plans come with a $0 premium and also include valuable perks like dental coverage and an allowance for over-the-counter health products. With a growing network and a commitment to member wellness, Cigna’s plans are a great option for anyone who wants a blend of flexibility and value.

Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield

As one of the most established names in health insurance, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield offers a sense of stability and trust. They have a large, deep-rooted provider network throughout Colorado, making it likely that your preferred doctors and hospitals are included. Anthem provides a solid mix of both HMO and PPO plans, catering to different preferences and budgets. They also place a strong emphasis on preventive services and wellness programs designed to keep you healthy. For a dependable plan from a carrier with a long history in the state, Anthem is a consistently strong choice.

Aetna

Aetna, which is now part of CVS Health, brings a unique advantage to the table. This partnership often translates into convenient benefits for members, such as access to care at MinuteClinic locations and cost-saving perks at CVS pharmacies. Aetna’s Medicare Advantage plans in Colorado are often highly rated and feature competitive premiums—many at $0 per month. They focus on a holistic approach to health, frequently including benefits like over-the-counter allowances, fitness memberships, and robust prescription drug coverage. If you value the convenience of integrated pharmacy benefits, Aetna is an excellent option to explore.

What Do the Top Plans Offer?

When you start comparing Medicare Advantage plans, you’ll notice they all cover the same basic hospital and medical services as Original Medicare. That’s the rule. But the best plans don’t stop there. They build on that foundation with a variety of benefits designed to support your overall health and fit your lifestyle. Think of it as the difference between a basic package and an all-inclusive one. From extra health perks and wellness programs to the convenience of virtual doctor visits, top-tier plans in Colorado offer much more than just the essentials. Let’s look at what you can expect to find.

Explore Your Core Coverage

Every Medicare Advantage plan must provide, at a minimum, the same Part A (hospital) and Part B (medical) coverage as Original Medicare. But how they provide that coverage can differ. The top plans often give you more flexibility in how you see your doctors. For example, Forbes Advisor highlights several top-rated Medicare Advantage plans in Colorado for 2025, including the Aetna Medicare Eagle 1 (PPO). As a PPO, this type of plan allows you to see both in-network and out-of-network doctors, though your costs will usually be lower if you stay in-network. This flexibility is a key feature to look for if you want more choice in your health care providers.

Find Extra Services and Perks

One of the biggest draws of Medicare Advantage plans is the extra benefits that Original Medicare doesn’t cover. These perks can make a real difference in your budget and your daily life. According to NerdWallet, leading carriers like Aetna and UnitedHealthcare often sell the top-rated Medicare Advantage plans in Colorado, which frequently include dental, vision, and hearing coverage. Getting routine dental cleanings, a new pair of glasses, or hearing aids covered by your plan can save you hundreds, or even thousands, of dollars a year. These aren’t just minor add-ons; they are essential health services that contribute to your overall well-being.

Stay Healthy with Wellness and Preventive Care

The best plans don’t just help you when you’re sick; they help you stay healthy in the first place. Many plans offer a fantastic range of wellness programs and preventive care services designed to keep you active and well. These can include gym memberships through programs like SilverSneakers, access to health coaching, nutrition counseling, and resources to help you manage chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease. These benefits are there to empower you to take control of your health. By taking advantage of these services, you can maintain your health and potentially prevent more serious issues down the road.

Access Care from Home with Telehealth

In our busy world, convenience matters. Telehealth services have become an incredibly valuable feature, and they are now commonly included in Medicare Advantage plans. This benefit allows you to consult with a doctor, specialist, or therapist from the comfort of your own home using a phone, tablet, or computer. Telehealth is especially helpful if you have mobility issues, live in a rural area, or simply need a quick consultation for a non-emergency issue. It saves you travel time and can make it easier to get timely medical advice. This modern convenience helps members access care from home, ensuring you can connect with a provider whenever you need to.

How to Compare Plan Costs

Understanding the costs associated with a Medicare Advantage plan is about looking beyond the monthly premium. A plan’s price tag includes several components that will affect your total health care spending throughout the year. Let’s walk through what these numbers mean so you can find a plan that truly fits your budget.

Breaking Down Premiums, Deductibles, and Maximums

Many Medicare Advantage plans in Colorado advertise a $0 monthly premium, which can be very appealing. However, it’s important to remember you will still pay your monthly Medicare Part B premium. Beyond premiums, you’ll have other costs when you receive care, like deductibles and copayments. A key number to look for is the plan’s annual out-of-pocket maximum. This is the most you’ll have to pay for covered medical services in a year, offering a crucial safety net for your finances. These costs can change annually and differ based on where you live, so always review the details for the upcoming year.

What’s New for Prescription Drug Costs in 2025?

There’s great news for prescription drug costs starting in 2025. A new rule sets the annual out-of-pocket limit for medications covered by a Medicare Part D plan at $2,000. This applies to standalone Part D plans and the prescription coverage included in Medicare Advantage plans. Once your spending on covered drugs hits this $2,000 cap, you won’t have to pay any more out-of-pocket for your prescriptions for the rest of the year. This change can provide significant financial relief, especially if you take expensive medications, making your yearly costs much more predictable.

What Does a $0 Premium Plan Really Mean?

When you see a plan with a “$0 premium,” it simply means you don’t have to pay an additional monthly fee for that specific plan’s benefits. It doesn’t mean your health care is free. As mentioned, you are still responsible for your Part B premium. You will also pay other costs when you visit a doctor or hospital, such as copays for appointments and a deductible that you must meet before the plan starts paying its share. Think of the premium as just one piece of the puzzle when you compare your options.

Check Your Prescription Drug Coverage

A plan can look perfect on paper, but if it doesn’t cover your specific medications, it could lead to high out-of-pocket costs. Before you enroll, always check the plan’s formulary, which is its list of covered drugs. Make sure your prescriptions are on the list and find out what your copay or coinsurance will be. The official Medicare Plan Finder tool is an excellent resource for this. You can enter your medications and dosages to see exactly how different plans will cover them, helping you avoid any costly surprises down the road.

Find a Plan with the Right Network for You

Choosing a plan is about more than just costs and extra perks; it’s about making sure you can see the doctors you know and trust without hassle. A plan’s network—the group of doctors, hospitals, and specialists it partners with—is the foundation of your healthcare. Getting this part right means you can continue your care seamlessly and avoid surprise bills. Let’s walk through what you need to look for.

HMO vs. PPO: How Much Flexibility Do You Need?

When you start to compare health plans, you’ll see two common types: HMOs and PPOs. Think of a Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) as having a team captain for your health. You’ll choose a primary care physician (PCP) who coordinates all your care and gives you referrals to see specialists. A Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) offers more freedom. You don’t usually need a referral to see a specialist, giving you more direct control over your healthcare choices. This flexibility is a major plus for many people, but it’s important to weigh it against any potential differences in cost.

What to Know About Prior Authorization

Prior authorization is a term you’ll see with Medicare Advantage plans. It means that for certain tests or procedures, your plan needs to approve it before you receive the service. This is how insurance companies manage costs and ensure care is medically necessary. While it’s a standard process, it can sometimes cause delays. When looking at plans, it’s helpful to understand which services require this extra step. Knowing this ahead of time can help you and your doctor plan your care and avoid hurdles, a key part of understanding Medicare Advantage in Colorado.

Make Sure Your Doctor Is In-Network

This might be the most important check you do. If you have doctors you love, you’ll want to make sure they are “in-network.” Most plans have a specific list of providers they work with, and seeing a doctor outside that network can lead to much higher out-of-pocket costs or no coverage at all. Before you commit to any of the Colorado Medicare Advantage plans, take the time to look up your doctors and specialists in the plan’s provider directory. This simple step ensures you can keep your trusted healthcare team by your side.

Discover Benefits Beyond Original Medicare

One of the biggest reasons people explore Medicare Advantage plans is for the extra benefits that go beyond what Original Medicare covers. While Original Medicare (Parts A and B) handles hospital stays and doctor visits, it leaves some significant gaps in coverage. Advantage plans often step in to fill these gaps, bundling multiple benefits into a single plan. Think of them as an all-in-one package designed to cover more of your health and wellness needs. These extras can make a real difference in your daily life and your budget, covering services that are essential for maintaining your overall health as you get older.

Dental, Vision, and Hearing Coverage

If you’ve ever been surprised by a large bill for a dental crown or a new pair of glasses, you know that Original Medicare doesn’t typically cover these routine costs. This is a major gap for many people. Thankfully, many Medicare Advantage plans include essential dental, vision, and hearing benefits. This means your plan may help pay for things like dental cleanings, fillings, eye exams, glasses, contacts, and hearing aids. Having this coverage built into your plan can save you significant money and help you stay on top of your health without worrying about high out-of-pocket expenses for necessary care.

Fitness Programs and Other Wellness Perks

Many plans are designed not just to treat you when you’re sick, but to help you stay healthy in the first place. It’s common for Medicare Advantage plans to include popular fitness programs like SilverSneakers at no extra cost. A membership can give you access to thousands of gyms, community centers, and online classes across the country. Beyond gym access, some plans offer allowances for over-the-counter health products, meal delivery after a hospital stay, and other wellness perks. These benefits are there to support a healthy, active lifestyle, which is a key part of your overall well-being.

Help with Transportation

Getting to and from the doctor’s office can be a real challenge, especially if you no longer drive or don’t have reliable transportation. Recognizing this, some Medicare Advantage plans offer help with rides to your medical appointments. This transportation assistance is an incredibly valuable service that ensures you can get the care you need, when you need it. It removes a major barrier for many seniors and provides peace of mind, knowing you have a safe and dependable way to get to your appointments, from routine check-ups to specialist visits. When comparing plans, it’s worth checking if this practical benefit is included.

How to Judge a Plan’s Quality

When you’re comparing plans, it’s easy to focus only on the monthly premium. But the true value of a plan often comes down to its quality. Think about it: How easy is it to get an appointment? How helpful is the customer service team when you have a question? These things matter just as much as the cost. A lower-premium plan isn’t a great deal if you can’t get the care you need or spend hours on the phone trying to sort out a simple issue. Luckily, you don’t have to guess. There are some straightforward ways to check a plan’s track record and see if it delivers on its promises.

Use Medicare’s Star Ratings to Compare

Medicare has a system that does some of the homework for you. It’s called the Star Rating system, and it’s a great tool for comparing plans at a glance. Every year, Medicare evaluates plans based on dozens of factors, including member complaints, customer service, and how well the plan helps people stay healthy. Each plan receives a rating from one to five stars, with five stars being considered excellent. When you’re looking at your options, paying attention to these Star Ratings can help you quickly identify plans that consistently perform well for their members.

See What Other Members Are Saying

Star Ratings give you the official government score, but it’s also helpful to see what actual members think. High ratings often point to a better member experience. For example, some of the most highly rated plans earn that status because their members report high levels of satisfaction with their care and service. Think of it like reading reviews before trying a new restaurant. Hearing from people who are already enrolled in a plan can give you a clearer picture of what it’s like to use it day-to-day, from getting prescriptions filled to seeing a specialist.

Look for Great Customer Service

When you have a health concern or a question about a bill, the last thing you want is a frustrating customer service experience. A plan with a great reputation for service can make a huge difference. But how can you tell before you enroll? This is where getting some expert help can be invaluable. A knowledgeable insurance agent often has firsthand experience with how different insurance companies treat their members. They hear the good, the bad, and the ugly, and they can share those insights with you to help you find a plan that’s not just affordable, but also supportive.

Know Your Deadlines for Enrolling or Switching Plans

When it comes to Medicare, timing is key. There are specific windows each year when you can sign up for a plan or make changes. Knowing these dates helps you stay in control of your health coverage and avoid any gaps or penalties. It can feel like a lot to keep track of, but understanding the calendar is the first step toward making a confident choice. Let’s walk through the most important deadlines you’ll want to mark on your calendar so you never miss an opportunity to get the coverage that’s right for you.

The Annual Enrollment Period

Think of the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) as your yearly opportunity to review and adjust your health coverage. This period runs from October 15 to December 7 each year. During this time, you can join a new Medicare Advantage plan, switch from one plan to another, or drop your plan and return to Original Medicare. Any changes you make will take effect on January 1 of the following year. This is the main window for most people to adjust their coverage, so it’s a great time to reassess if your current plan is still the best fit for your health needs and budget.

When You Might Qualify for a Special Enrollment Period

If you miss the fall enrollment window, you might have another chance to make a change. For those already in a Medicare Advantage plan, there is a Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period from January 1 to March 31. During this time, you can switch to a different Advantage plan or go back to Original Medicare. You may also be eligible for a Special Enrollment Period if you experience certain life events, like moving to a new service area or losing other health coverage. These special circumstances give you a unique window to adjust your plan outside of the standard enrollment times.

What to Consider Before You Switch

Before you make a switch, take a moment to consider your priorities. What’s most important to you? Is it keeping your trusted family doctor? Do you need robust dental and vision benefits? Or is a low monthly premium your top concern? Once you have a clear idea of your must-haves, you can compare plans more effectively. Always take the time to read the fine print, paying close attention to the plan’s annual out-of-pocket maximum and how it covers your specific prescription drugs. A little homework now can save you from unexpected costs and headaches later.

Helpful Tools and Resources

Sorting through your Medicare Advantage plan options can feel like a big project, but you don’t have to do it alone. Several free resources are available to help you compare plans, understand the details, and feel confident in your choice. Whether you prefer to do your own research online or talk through your options with a real person, here are some excellent places to start.

The Official Medicare Plan Finder Tool

If you like to handle research yourself, the official Medicare Plan Finder tool is an essential starting point. As the government’s own resource, it gives you an unbiased look at every plan in your area. You can use the plan finder tool to compare plans available in your specific ZIP code and filter them based on what matters most, like prescription coverage or monthly premiums. This gives you a clear, side-by-side comparison of costs and benefits, making it much easier to create a shortlist of your best options.

Your Local State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)

For those who prefer talking things through, the local State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) is an incredible resource. SHIPs provide free, unbiased counseling to help you understand your Medicare options and make informed decisions. The program is staffed by trained counselors who are not affiliated with any insurance company, so their advice is always impartial. They can answer your specific questions, explain complex details, and help you weigh the pros and cons of the plans you’re considering. It’s an especially helpful service if you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the choices.

Work with a Licensed Insurance Agent

For personalized guidance, consider working with a licensed insurance agent. A knowledgeable insurance agent can help you understand the many differences between plans and find one that fits your needs, and it doesn’t cost you anything extra. They act as your advocate, taking the time to understand your specific health needs, budget, and priorities. An agent can verify that your doctors are in-network, confirm your prescriptions are covered, and assist with the enrollment process. This expert support saves you time and provides peace of mind that you’ve chosen the right coverage.

How to Choose the Right Plan for You

Picking the right Medicare Advantage plan can feel like a huge decision, but you don’t have to figure it all out at once. By breaking it down and focusing on what’s most important to you, you can find a plan that truly fits your life. Let’s walk through a few key areas to consider that will help you narrow down your options and make a choice with confidence.

Start with Your Personal Health Needs

Before you even look at a plan, take a moment to think about your own health. What doctors and specialists do you see regularly? Do you have any chronic conditions that require specific care? Make a quick list of your prescription medications, including the dosages. Having this information ready will make it much easier to check if a plan covers what you actually need. This simple first step is all about you. It ensures you’re looking for a plan that supports your specific health situation, not just one that looks good on paper or works for your neighbor.

Look Beyond the Monthly Premium

A $0 premium plan sounds fantastic, but it’s not the whole story. You’ll still pay your monthly Medicare Part B premium. Beyond that, every plan has its own costs, like deductibles, copayments for doctor visits, and coinsurance. It’s also important to check the plan’s annual out-of-pocket maximum. This is the most you’d have to pay for covered services in a year, and it’s a crucial safety net for your finances. Thinking about your total potential costs gives you a much clearer picture of what to expect.

Make Sure Your Doctors and Drugs Are Covered

Once you have a few plans in mind, it’s time to play detective. Does the plan include your trusted primary care doctor and any specialists you see? Most plans have an online provider directory you can search, or you can simply call your doctor’s office and ask which plans they accept. Next, look at the plan’s drug list, or formulary, to see if your prescriptions are covered and at what cost tier. Finding a plan that keeps your care team and medications accessible is one of the most important parts of making a confident choice.

Understand the Different Plan Types

Medicare Advantage plans aren’t one-size-fits-all. The most common types are HMOs and PPOs. HMOs often have lower costs but require you to use doctors within their network and get referrals to see specialists. PPOs offer more flexibility to see out-of-network doctors, but usually at a higher cost. There are other options too, so it’s helpful to compare the types of plans to see which structure best fits your lifestyle and how you prefer to get your healthcare.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the real cost of a $0 premium plan? It’s a great question because the word “free” can be misleading. A $0 premium means you don’t pay an extra monthly fee to the insurance company for that specific plan. However, you are still responsible for paying your standard Part B premium to Medicare. You will also have other costs when you use your plan, like copayments for doctor visits, a deductible you might have to meet, and coinsurance for certain services. The key is to look at the plan’s total potential costs, including its out-of-pocket maximum, to get a true sense of what you might spend in a year.

Will I have to change doctors if I choose a Medicare Advantage plan? Not necessarily, but you absolutely need to check before you enroll. Most Medicare Advantage plans use a network of specific doctors and hospitals. If your current doctors are in that network, you can continue seeing them without a problem. If they aren’t, you would have to pay much more to see them or switch to an in-network doctor. Before committing to a plan, always use its provider directory to confirm that your trusted doctors, specialists, and preferred hospitals are included.

Is a Medicare Advantage plan better than Original Medicare? One isn’t automatically better than the other; they just work differently. It really comes down to what you value most. Original Medicare gives you the freedom to see any doctor in the country who accepts Medicare, but it has gaps in coverage and no cap on your annual spending. A Medicare Advantage plan bundles your coverage into one package, often with extra perks like dental and vision, and includes a yearly out-of-pocket maximum for financial protection. The trade-off is that you generally need to use doctors within the plan’s network.

With so many companies, how do I pick the right one for me? Instead of starting with the company name, start with yourself. Make a simple list of your must-haves: your doctors, your prescription drugs, and the benefits that matter most to you, like dental coverage or a fitness program. Once you have that list, you can see which companies offer plans that check all your boxes. From there, you can compare their costs and look at their Medicare Star Ratings to get a sense of their quality and customer service. The “best” company is simply the one that offers a plan that fits your personal needs.

What if I choose a plan and then realize it’s not a good fit? You are not locked in forever, which is great news. Every year, there is an Annual Enrollment Period from October 15 to December 7. During this time, you can switch to a different Medicare Advantage plan or return to Original Medicare for the following year. If you’re already in an Advantage plan, you also have an opportunity to switch to another one between January 1 and March 31. These windows give you the flexibility to make a change if your needs or the plan itself changes.