HealthSpring Medicare Advantage 2026 offers HMO, PPO, and Special Needs Plans, with many featuring $0 monthly premiums and extra benefits such as dental, vision, and hearing coverage. However, costs and coverage vary by plan and location.
So, is HealthSpring a good Medicare Advantage option? Let’s explore its 2026 plans, costs, benefits, and potential drawbacks before you decide.
1. What Is HealthSpring Medicare Advantage?
HealthSpring Health Medicare Advantage is a Medicare Part C insurance program that combines Medicare Part A (hospital) and Part B (medical) benefits into one private health plan.
Many plans also include prescription drug coverage and extra benefits such as dental, vision, and hearing care.
Who owns HealthSpring Medicare Advantage? Health Care Service Corporation (HCSC) owns HealthSpring after acquiring Cigna’s Medicare businesses in March 2025. The HealthSpring brand officially replaced Cigna Medicare branding for the 2026 coverage year.
In 2026, HealthSpring offers Medicare Advantage plans in 29 states and Washington, D.C., with county-level availability.
2. What Types of HealthSpring Advantage Plans Are Available?
Many people asking what is HealthSpring Medicare Advantage plan coverage really want to know which plan type fits them. Here’s a quick summary.
| Plan Type | Provider Network | Referrals | Best For |
| HMO | In-network only, except emergencies | Usually required | Lower costs and coordinated care |
| PPO | In- and out-of-network (higher cost out of network) | Not required | More flexibility in choosing doctors |
| D-SNP | Plan network; coordinates with Medicaid | Varies | People with both Medicare and Medicaid |
| C-SNP | Plan network; built around chronic care | Varies | People with qualifying chronic conditions |
HealthSpring HMO and PPO Plans
HMO plans have you choose a primary care doctor who coordinates your care. You’ll usually need referrals to see specialists and must stay in network except for emergencies. PPO plans let you see specialists without referrals and use out-of-network providers, though you’ll pay more for out-of-network care.
HealthSpring Special Needs Plans (D-SNP and C-SNP)
D-SNPs are for people who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid, and they often include extra benefits and lower costs. C-SNPs serve people with certain chronic conditions, such as diabetes, chronic heart failure, or cardiovascular disorders.
>>> Read more: Does Medicare Cover 24-Hour In Home Hospice Care? Rules, Limits & Costs
3. What Benefits Does HealthSpring Medicare Advantage Cover?
HealthSpring Medicare covers almost all Medicare Part A and Part B services, with many plans offering prescription drugs and additional health benefits. Depending on your plan, coverage may include:
- Hospital and medical care: Inpatient stays, doctor visits, outpatient treatment, and preventive services.
- Prescription drugs: Most plans include Medicare Part D coverage.
- Dental, vision, and hearing: Routine dental services, eye exams, and hearing benefits on eligible plans.
- OTC allowances and Flex Card: A prepaid card for eligible expenses and rewards for completing certain healthy activities.
- Fitness and transportation: Silver&Fit fitness programs and rides to approved medical appointments on select plans.
- Part B Giveback: Some plans reduce your monthly Medicare Part B premium.
Benefits vary by plan and location. Healthy grocery allowances and certain other benefits may require additional eligibility. Check your plan’s Evidence of Coverage for details.
4. How Much Does HealthSpring Advantage Cost?
Many HealthSpring Medicare Advantage plans have $0 monthly premiums, with an average premium of about $4 per month in 2026, according to ValuePenguin. However, costs vary by plan and location.
Other expenses may include:
- Medicare Part B premium: The standard premium is $202.90 per month in 2026, although some plans offer a Part B Giveback that reduces this cost.
- Deductibles and copays: Costs for doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescriptions vary by plan.
- Out-of-pocket maximum: Each plan limits annual spending on covered Part A and Part B services.
A $0 premium doesn’t mean free healthcare. Check HealthSpring’s website for costs in your ZIP code.
5. Is HealthSpring Medicare Advantage Good? Pros and Cons
HealthSpring Medicare Advantage reviews are mixed. Low costs and solid extras compete with below-average quality ratings.
Key Advantages
- Low-premium options: $0 plans are widely available, including $0 PPOs in most HealthSpring states.
- Additional healthcare benefits: The Flex Card, Part B Giveback plans, and dental, vision, and hearing coverage.
- Positive member experience scores in some measures: NerdWallet rates HealthSpring’s member experience above Anthem’s.
Potential Drawbacks
- Geographic and provider network restrictions: Plans are available in only part of the country, and HMOs limit you to in-network doctors.
- Below-average CMS quality ratings for 2026: NerdWallet reports a weighted average of 3.68 stars, which is below the industry average.
- Varying drug coverage and costs: Formularies and out-of-pocket costs differ by plan.
6. How to Enroll in a HealthSpring Medicare Advantage Plan
Signing up for HealthSpring Advantage takes four steps:
- Visit the official HealthSpring Advantage page. Go to healthspring.com, or call the number listed on the site.
- Enter your ZIP code. This shows only the plans available in your county.
- Compare plans. Review benefits, drug coverage, and whether your doctors and pharmacies are in network.
- Review costs and enroll. Check premiums, copays, and the out-of-pocket maximum, then apply online or by phone, mail, or fax.
The Annual Enrollment Period runs from October 15 to December 7, and changes take effect January 1. You may also qualify for a Special Enrollment Period if you move, lose other coverage, or become eligible for Medicaid.
>>> Read more: Medical Insurance for Unemployed: 2026 Best Coverage Options
7. FAQs
Is HealthSpring a good Medicare Advantage provider?
It can be, especially if you want a low premium and extra benefits. However, its 2026 star ratings are below average, so compare it with other plans in your area.
Is HealthSpring the same company as Cigna?
Not anymore. HCSC bought Cigna’s Medicare business in 2025 and renamed it HealthSpring. Cigna still provides some pharmacy services for a set period.
Is Cigna Healthspring a Medicare Advantage plan?
Yes. Cigna HealthSpring was associated with Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans. In 2025, Health Care Service Corporation (HCSC) acquired Cigna’s Medicare businesses and reintroduced the HealthSpring brand for 2026.
Does HealthSpring cover care when traveling out of state?
All Medicare Advantage plans must cover emergency and urgent care anywhere in the U.S. PPOs may cover routine out-of-network care at a higher cost. If you stay outside your service area for more than six months, you’ll usually be disenrolled.
8. Final Thoughts
HealthSpring Medicare Advantage offers low premiums, a Flex Card, and Part B Giveback options in many areas, but its quality ratings trail the industry average. Compare plans by ZIP code, check your doctors and drugs, and make your choice before December 7.
