Today

Medicare's 2027 enrollment brings fewer plan choices, new star ratings, and $90 checks

Good morning. Medicare open enrollment is the big story today. Many of the headlines warn that millions of older Americans will have fewer plans to choose from this year, and some people are losing private Medicare Advantage plans and facing higher costs. The message from several reports is the same: check your coverage carefully before you pick a 2027 plan.

There is also news about quality. The government released its 2027 star ratings, which grade Medicare Advantage and Part D plans. Reports say Humana scored well, while some other insurers slipped. Star ratings can help you compare plans during enrollment.

A few other items touched daily life. Social Security sent millions of people a $90 Medicare-related check, and reporters explained why. The government also started a $27.8 million effort to help prevent falls among older adults. And local communities are working on nursing home care, including a push for a veterans' home in the Coastal Bend area of Texas.