Half of Medicare Advantage stars thresholds harder to reach in 2027

CMS finalized cutpoints for the 2027 Medicare Advantage Star Ratings, making roughly half of the performance measure thresholds more difficult for plans to achieve. The change particularly impacts measures related to managing chronic conditions and customer experience. Plans falling below certain star ratings face financial penalties and enrollment restrictions. This move is part of CMS's ongoing effort to tighten program standards. Monitor your Medicare Advantage plan partners' star ratings in October 2026 previews, as lower scores can signal network changes or benefit reductions for the 2027 plan year.