Kaiser Permanente Medicare Advantage Health Plans Achieve High Ratings in 2026
Kaiser Permanente has once again demonstrated its commitment to providing high-quality healthcare by earning impressive ratings for its Medicare Advantage health plans from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) for the year 2026. This recognition highlights the organization's dedication to delivering coordinated care and exemplary service to its members.
According to the latest announcements, all Kaiser Permanente Medicare Advantage plans received either 4 or 4.5 stars out of a maximum of 5 from CMS. Such a consistent performance marks the second consecutive year in which Kaiser Permanente has maintained high ratings, signifying reliability in their healthcare offerings. In Hawaii, their plan stands out as the highest-rated option, while their HMO plans in California and Washington, D.C., are also tied for the highest ratings in those regions.
The CMS ratings utilize a star-based system to evaluate Medicare health and prescription drug plans, allowing consumers to compare the quality of available plans. The ratings cover various key areas, assessing how well health plans support members in staying healthy, managing ongoing health conditions, member experiences, customer service, access to care, and pharmacy services.
Strong Nationwide Performance
Here’s a breakdown of the CMS Medicare Star Ratings for Kaiser Permanente in 2026:
- - California: 4.5 stars
- - California (Dual Special Needs Plan): 4 stars
- - Colorado: 4.5 stars
- - Georgia: 4.5 stars
- - Hawaii: 4.5 stars
- - Mid-Atlantic States (including Baltimore, suburban Maryland, Northern Virginia, and Washington, D.C.): 4.5 stars
- - Northwest (including Portland, Eugene, and Salem, Oregon; Vancouver and Longview-Kelso, Washington): 4 stars
- - Washington: 4 stars
These outstanding ratings reflect Kaiser Permanente's unwavering resolve to deliver care that aligns with the latest evidence while being tailored to the specific needs of its members. According to Dr. Andrew Bindman, executive vice president and chief medical officer for Kaiser Permanente, these ratings underscore an essential aspect of their mission – providing care that meets and exceeds the expectations of Medicare members.
Dr. Letitia Bridges, executive vice president and chief quality officer for The Permanente Federation, expressed pride in the skilled healthcare professionals at Kaiser Permanente, who contribute to delivering world-class care. She mentioned that these ratings showcase their commitment to ensuring members receive timely, coordinated care that leads to favorable health outcomes.
What the Ratings Mean for Members
Medicare’s annual open enrollment period is approaching, spanning from October 15 to December 7, 2025. During this time, individuals can explore various Medicare Star Ratings and consider enrolling in one of Kaiser Permanente’s health plans, which prioritize high-quality care.
Kaiser Permanente, established with a mission to provide affordable healthcare, currently serves over 12.6 million members across eight states and the District of Columbia. The organization emphasizes a holistic approach to patient health, guided by a team of dedicated physicians, specialists, and caregivers. They leverage advanced technology and tools to promote health, prevent disease, and manage chronic conditions effectively.
In conclusion, Kaiser Permanente’s recognition in CMS Star Ratings for 2026 highlights its ongoing dedication to enhancing the healthcare experience for its members. As they prepare for the upcoming enrollment period, Kaiser Permanente invites prospective members to learn more about their high-quality Medicare Advantage plans and the benefits they offer by visiting kp.org/medicarestars.