Medicare Advantage (MA) premiums are projected to decline in 2027 even as insurers narrow provider networks and withdraw from some markets amid rising medical spending, drug costs and utilization. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) estimates the weighted average monthly MA premium will fall from $14.37 in 2026 to $12 in 2027, a 16.5% decrease. More than 99% of Medicare beneficiaries are expected to retain access to at least one MA plan, while 97% should have at least 10 choices. UnitedHealthcare President Bobby Hunter said the industry cannot ignore pressure from financing constraints, higher medical and drug bills and increased care use. UnitedHealthcare expects 66% of members to be able to choose either an HMO or PPO in 2027, down from 70% in 2026, while CVS Health's Aetna is expanding HMO plans and reducing its footprint from 43 states to 41. Humana said it will offer plans in more than 80% of U.S. counties, compared with 85% in 2026. CMS also projects standalone Part D premiums will rise slightly to $36 from $35.09, while MA plans that include drug coverage will see average Part D premiums fall from $11.32 to $7. About 34 million people are expected to enroll in MA in 2027, or 47.4% of all Medicare enrollees. Open enrollment runs from Oct. 15 through Dec. 7, with Medicare.gov providing comparisons of premiums, benefits, out-of-pocket costs and coverage.