Federal Policy
CMS Releases Fact Sheet on 2027 Medicare Advantage Star Ratings
CMS published a fact sheet outlining methodology and changes to the Medicare Advantage and Part D Star Ratings program for 2027. The fact sheet details how CMS calculates quality ratings that affect plan bonus payments and marketing, including measure changes, cut points, and adjustments for the upcoming rating year. Medicare Advantage and Part D plan sponsors are the primary audience, as ratings influence quality bonus payments and beneficiary enrollment decisions. While this fact sheet is focused on Medicare Advantage rather than Medicaid, many organizations operate both Medicare Advantage and Medicaid managed care lines, so changes to Star Ratings methodology can affect their broader plan operations and dual-eligible member strategies.
Why it mattersHealth plans operating both Medicare Advantage and Medicaid managed care lines need to track Star Ratings changes since they affect bonus payments, marketing rules, and enrollment strategy for dually eligible populations.