Humana Reports 2026 Star Gains; Insurers Trim Footprints

Humana said preliminary 2026 Medicare Advantage star ratings were briefly accessible on CMS’s Plan Finder and that the ratings matched its expectations, prompting the company to reaffirm its 2025 guidance and sending its stock higher. The insurer reported about 1.2 million members (roughly 20%) in high-rated MA plans for 2026, an average rating of 3.61, and that 14% of members are in 4.5‑star plans versus 3% in 2025. The developments come as major insurers are trimming Medicare Advantage footprints for 2026 amid lower government reimbursements, higher utilization and rising costs. Humana will offer plans in 46 states and cover about 85% of U.S. counties (down from 89%), while Aetna and UnitedHealthcare are also reducing county availability and exiting less-profitable markets. UnitedHealthcare said its expanded 2026 MA offerings will reach roughly 94% of Medicare‑eligible individuals and include many $0‑premium and $0‑copay options.