7 Medicare Advantage Perks That May Change in 2027

Your Medicare Advantage plan may keep the same name next year, but that does not mean the benefits will stay the same. As millions of Americans compare coverage for 2027, some are finding that familiar extras such as dental care, transportation, and over-the-counter allowances may be revised starting January 1.

Those changes matter most for retirees who depend on supplemental benefits to help manage healthcare costs on a fixed income. Although the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) projects that average Medicare Advantage premiums will fall by 16.5% in 2027, a lower premium does not necessarily mean lower total healthcare spending.

A recent Avalere Health analysis prepared for Better Medicare Alliance found that fewer plans are expected to offer certain supplemental benefits next year. Before renewing automatically, it is worth taking a close look at seven Medicare Advantage benefits that may not look the same.

1. Dental coverage may come with new restrictions

Dental coverage remains one of the most sought-after Medicare Advantage perks, especially because Original Medicare generally does not pay for routine dental care. Better Medicare Alliance says about 96% of Medicare Advantage plans will still offer some dental benefits in 2027, though some insurers may reduce the level of coverage. Your plan may still advertise dental care while changing its annual spending cap, covered procedures, or the dentists in its network. For instance, a retiree expecting help with dentures or a crown could find that the plan still pays for cleanings but offers less support for expensive restorative work. Before you renew, check the Summary of Benefits and confirm the annual dental allowance, covered services, and in-network providers.

2. Vision benefits could cover less than expected

Many retirees rely on Medicare Advantage to help pay for eye exams, prescription glasses, and contact lenses. Vision benefits are still widely available, but the amount plans contribute toward eyewear can differ widely and may change from year to year. An analysis of CMS plan data published by PlainMedicare found that the median annual eyewear allowance among certain general-enrollment plans with dollar limits fell from $200 in 2026 to $150 in 2027. For someone buying prescription glasses that cost $350, that hypothetical $50 drop could mean paying $200 out of pocket instead of $150, assuming everything else stays the same. Review whether your 2027 plan changes the eyewear allowance, exam copays, replacement rules, or participating optical retailers.

3. Hearing aid coverage may have different limits

Hearing-related Medicare Advantage benefits can be especially valuable because hearing aids often create a large out-of-pocket cost for older adults. CMS expects hearing benefits to remain broadly available in 2027, but plans may still adjust allowances, provider networks, and the hearing aid models that qualify. Some plans use a fixed dollar allowance, while others negotiate prices with specific providers or require members to choose from approved devices. A plan that advertises hearing aid coverage may still leave beneficiaries responsible for hundreds or even thousands of dollars, depending on the devices chosen and how the benefit is structured. If you think you may need hearing aids in 2027, ask about exam costs, device allowances, fitting services, replacement schedules, and approved providers before enrolling.

4. Over-the-counter allowances could shrink or disappear

Some Medicare Advantage plans provide monthly, quarterly, or annual allowances for approved over-the-counter products such as pain relievers, first-aid items, and other eligible healthcare supplies. These benefits can help retirees offset everyday health-related expenses, but they are not guaranteed to remain the same each year. Avalere Health found that the number of plans offering over-the-counter allowances is expected to decline by about 6% in 2027. In addition, CMS has finalized rules requiring supplemental benefit debit cards to verify eligible purchases electronically and limiting their use to the applicable plan year. Before the new year, check your allowance amount, eligible items, approved retailers, expiration rules, and whether any remaining balance from the prior year must be used first.

5. Transportation benefits may be harder to find

Transportation support is another Medicare Advantage benefit that can make a big difference for retirees who no longer drive. Some plans cover rides to medical appointments, pharmacies, or other approved healthcare destinations, helping beneficiaries avoid costly taxis or ride services. Better Medicare Alliance reports that about 15% fewer plans will offer transportation benefits in 2027, with only around one-third of plans expected to include them. Even when transportation is still available, limits on mileage, advance booking, approved destinations, or the number of covered trips may affect how useful the benefit really is. If you depend on ride assistance, compare the exact trip limits and scheduling rules instead of assuming the benefit will remain unchanged.

6. Meal delivery benefits could be reduced

Some Medicare Advantage plans provide meal delivery after a hospital stay or for members who meet certain health-related eligibility rules. These programs can be especially helpful for older adults recovering from illness, managing chronic conditions, or having trouble preparing healthy meals. Avalere’s analysis suggests that about 21% fewer Medicare Advantage plans will offer meal benefits in 2027, leaving fewer than half of plans with this coverage. Even so, meal delivery is not always available to every member of a participating plan, and eligibility may depend on medical circumstances, discharge status, or specific chronic conditions. Before relying on this benefit, confirm whether your plan offers meals, who qualifies, how many deliveries are covered, and whether a doctor must document medical need.

7. Fitness benefits and gym memberships could change

Fitness programs are among the Medicare Advantage benefits many older adults use to stay active, maintain strength, and stay socially connected. Some plans include access to participating gyms, fitness classes, online workouts, or other wellness activities without requiring a separate membership fee. Better Medicare Alliance says about 87% of Medicare Advantage plans will offer fitness benefits in 2027, down from 91% in 2026. Even if your plan still includes fitness coverage, the participating gyms, class options, and program providers may change from one year to the next. If you built your exercise routine around a specific gym or fitness program, verify that it will still be included before deciding to keep your coverage.

Lower Medicare Advantage premiums do not tell the whole story

The CMS Medicare Advantage announcement for 2027 projects that the average monthly premium will decline from $14.37 in 2026 to $12 in 2027. That may sound like good news, especially for retirees watching monthly expenses, but premiums are only one part of the overall cost of coverage. Deductibles, specialist copays, hospital charges, prescription costs, and annual out-of-pocket maximums can all affect what beneficiaries ultimately pay. A plan with a $0 monthly premium could still cost more if it has higher copays or offers less coverage for services you use often. Compare your expected annual healthcare costs, including the value of supplemental benefits you actually use, before assuming a lower premium is the better deal.

Review your coverage before December 7

The key point about Medicare Advantage benefits is that changes vary by insurer, plan, and location. Your plan’s Annual Notice of Change should outline the major coverage and cost differences taking effect on January 1, 2027, making it one of the most important documents to review during the fall. Medicare Open Enrollment runs from October 15 through December 7, 2026, giving beneficiaries time to compare plans and make changes for the upcoming year. Visit Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE to review your options, and be sure to confirm that your doctors, prescriptions, and preferred facilities are covered. Taking time to compare plans now could help you avoid surprise costs and the loss of benefits you rely on throughout 2027.