Savvy Senior: How To Use Medicare’s Star Ratings System During Open Enrollment

Dear Savvy Senior,

What does Medicare factor into their star rating system? I need to find a new Medicare plan during the open enrollment period and want to get it right this time.

Medicare Shopper

Dear Shopper,

If you’re shopping and comparing Medicare Advantage plans (the alternative to original Medicare) or Part D prescription drug plans during the open enrollment period (Oct. 15 – Dec. 7), you’ll likely find a dizzying number of options to choose from. The Medicare star rating system is a terrific tool to help you narrow down your choices. Here’s what you should know:

Understanding Star Ratings

The Medicare star ratings, which you’ll find in the Medicare’s online Plan Finder tool at Medicare.gov/plan-compare, offers a shorthand look at how Medicare Advantage and Part D plans meas