We reviewed Anthem’s Medicare Advantage plans across all 14 states where they operate, and honestly, if you live in one of those states, Anthem is worth a serious look. They’re not available everywhere — that’s their biggest limitation — but where they do operate, their Blue Cross Blue Shield network gives them provider access that’s hard to beat.
David Chen on our team actually helped his aunt compare Anthem to Humana in Indiana last fall. Anthem’s HMO plan had a lower out-of-pocket max and her cardiologist was in-network, so it ended up being a clear winner for her specific situation. That’s kind of the point though — these decisions are always personal.
A quick note: Medicare plan details change every year, and what we’ve listed here reflects the most current information we could verify. Always confirm benefits and costs for your specific zip code at medicare.gov or through your local SHIP counselor (free, unbiased help). Want to talk it through? Email [email protected] — real people, real answers.
Anthem Medicare Advantage: A Comprehensive Review
Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield is one of the largest health insurance providers in the US, covering approximately one in three Americans through its network of Blue Cross Blue Shield subsidiaries. Their Medicare Advantage plans reflect that scale — broad provider networks, competitive pricing, and strong benefit packages.
Anthem’s Medicare Advantage Footprint
Anthem offers Medicare Advantage plans in 14 states through its Blue Cross Blue Shield subsidiaries. Plan names and specific benefits vary by state, so it’s important to review plans available in your specific zip code.
States where Anthem/BCBS operates Medicare Advantage include California, Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Maine, Missouri, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, Ohio, Virginia, and Wisconsin (coverage may vary by county within each state).
Costs and Premiums
Monthly Premiums
Anthem offers a range of Medicare Advantage plans, many at $0 monthly premium. Even with a $0 premium plan, you still pay your Medicare Part B premium ($185.00/month in 2026).
Out-of-Pocket Maximums
Out-of-pocket maximums with Anthem plans typically range from $2,500 to $9,350 for in-network services annually (the federal in-network cap is $9,350 for 2026, up from $8,850 in 2025). This cap protects you if you have a high-cost medical year — once you reach the limit, the plan pays 100% for covered services.
Sample Cost Structure
Most Anthem HMO plans include:
- $0 primary care visit copay on many plans
- $0 specialist visits on premium plans
- $0 inpatient hospital copay on select plans
- $0 emergency care
Extra Benefits
Anthem’s Medicare Advantage plans typically include benefits beyond Original Medicare:
SilverSneakers Fitness Program
Many Anthem plans include SilverSneakers membership, providing access to a network of participating fitness centers, online classes, and wellness activities. SilverSneakers is available at thousands of locations nationwide.
Telehealth and 24/7 Nurse Line
Most Anthem Medicare Advantage members have access to telehealth visits and a 24-hour nurse advice line. These services allow you to address health concerns without an in-person appointment.
Dental Coverage
Anthem’s Medicare Advantage plans typically include preventive dental benefits (cleanings, X-rays). Comprehensive plans may also cover basic and major restorative work. Specific allowances vary significantly by plan.
Vision Coverage
Annual eye exams plus allowances for eyeglasses or contact lenses are included in most plans. Higher-tier plans may offer more generous allowances.
Hearing Coverage
Routine hearing exams plus allowances toward hearing aids. Coverage levels vary by plan.
Personal Emergency Response
Some Anthem plans include a personal emergency response system (PERS) — a wearable device that connects to emergency services with a button press.
Transportation Benefit
Select plans include a transportation benefit providing rides to medical appointments.
Meal Delivery
After a hospital discharge, some Anthem plans provide home-delivered meals during your recovery period.
Plan Types Available
Anthem offers both HMO and PPO Medicare Advantage plans in most markets:
HMO Plans: Lower premiums, require staying in-network and typically need a primary care physician. Lower overall costs for members who use in-network providers consistently.
PPO Plans: More flexibility to see out-of-network providers (at higher cost-sharing). No referrals required. Better for seniors who see multiple specialists or travel frequently.
How Anthem Compares
| Feature | Anthem | Humana | UnitedHealthcare |
|---|---|---|---|
| State availability | 14 states | All 50 | All 50 |
| $0 premium options | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| SilverSneakers | Many plans | No (Silver&Fit) | Renew Active |
| Star Rating | 3.5–4.5 stars | 4.0 stars avg | 3.5 stars avg |
| AM Best Rating | A | A- | A+ |
Is Anthem Medicare Advantage Right for You?
Anthem is a strong choice if:
- Anthem/BCBS plans are available and competitive in your state
- Your current doctors are in the Anthem network
- SilverSneakers access is important to you
- You want a well-established insurer with strong financial backing
Check plan availability and your specific doctor network before enrolling. Use medicare.gov/plan-compare to see all available plans in your zip code.