Reno Nevada Medicare Advantage Plans 2026 Guide
Your comprehensive guide to Medicare Advantage plans in Reno and Washoe County for 2026. Compare plans, understand benefits, and find the perfect coverage for your healthcare needs.
Reno Medicare Overview 2026
Reno, Nevada's third-largest city with over 265,000 residents in Washoe County, offers excellent Medicare Advantage options for 2026. The city's growing healthcare infrastructure, combined with its proximity to California, provides Medicare beneficiaries with diverse plan choices and comprehensive medical networks.
2026 Reno Medicare Key Facts
- Medicare Part A Deductible: $1,720 (2026)
- Medicare Part B Premium: $190.00/month (2026)
- Medicare Part B Deductible: $270 annually (2026)
- Available Medicare Advantage Plans: 15+ options for 2026
- Reno ZIP Codes: 89501, 89502, 89503, 89506, 89509, 89511, 89512, 89519, 89521, 89523
- Major Healthcare Systems: Renown Health, Saint Mary's, Northern Nevada Medical Center
Reno's Medicare landscape for 2026 features expanded plan options from major national insurers, competitive pricing, and strong local healthcare networks. The city's unique geographic position near the California border provides additional healthcare options while maintaining Nevada's favorable insurance regulations.
2026 Medicare Advantage Plans in Reno
Reno residents have access to a variety of Medicare Advantage plans for 2026, offered by leading insurance companies. These plans combine Medicare Parts A, B, and usually D into one convenient plan with additional benefits like dental, vision, and wellness programs.
Health Plan of Nevada
Plan Types: HMO, PPO
Monthly Premium: $0 - $75
Maximum Out-of-Pocket: $3,500 - $6,900
Special Features: Local Nevada focus, strong Reno network
Humana
Plan Types: HMO, PPO
Monthly Premium: $0 - $95
Maximum Out-of-Pocket: $4,000 - $7,550
Special Features: Extensive prescription coverage, wellness rewards
UnitedHealthcare
Plan Types: HMO, PPO
Monthly Premium: $0 - $89
Maximum Out-of-Pocket: $3,900 - $7,550
Special Features: Large provider network, technology benefits
Anthem Blue Cross
Plan Types: HMO, PPO
Monthly Premium: $0 - $65
Maximum Out-of-Pocket: $4,500 - $6,700
Special Features: Comprehensive benefits, strong regional presence
Aetna
Plan Types: HMO, PPO
Monthly Premium: $0 - $79
Maximum Out-of-Pocket: $4,200 - $7,550
Special Features: Innovative care management, digital tools
Silver Summit
Plan Types: HMO
Monthly Premium: $0 - $55
Maximum Out-of-Pocket: $3,900 - $6,500
Special Features: Regional focus, competitive pricing
2026 Plan Highlights
- • Most plans include prescription drug coverage (Part D)
- • Many $0 premium plans available with comprehensive benefits
- • Enhanced dental and vision coverage compared to 2025
- • Expanded telehealth and digital health benefits
- • Wellness programs with fitness memberships and health coaching
Plan Costs & Benefits Comparison
Understanding the costs and benefits of Reno Medicare Advantage plans helps you make an informed decision. Here's what to expect for 2026 coverage in Washoe County.
| Cost Category | Typical Range | What It Covers |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Premium | $0 - $95 | Plan administration and benefits |
| Medical Deductible | $0 - $500 | Amount paid before plan coverage begins |
| Primary Care Visit | $0 - $25 | Copay for routine doctor visits |
| Specialist Visit | $30 - $65 | Copay for specialist consultations |
| Hospital Stay (per day) | $295 - $450 | Daily copay for inpatient stays |
Additional Benefits Available
Dental & Vision
- • Routine dental cleanings and exams
- • Annual eye exams and vision screenings
- • Allowances for glasses or contacts
- • Some plans include major dental work
Wellness & Fitness
- • Gym memberships and fitness programs
- • Wellness coaching and health education
- • Preventive care incentives
- • Health screening rewards
Transportation
- • Medical appointment transportation
- • Pharmacy and grocery trips
- • Uber Health partnerships
- • Flexible transportation credits
Digital Health
- • Telehealth visits with doctors
- • Mobile health apps and tools
- • Remote monitoring devices
- • 24/7 nurse hotlines
Reno Healthcare Networks
Reno's healthcare network includes major hospital systems, specialty care centers, and primary care practices. Medicare Advantage plans contract with these providers to offer comprehensive care throughout Washoe County.
Major Hospital Systems
Renown Regional Medical Center
1155 Mill St, Reno, NV 89502
Level II Trauma Center, comprehensive medical services, cardiac care, cancer treatment
Saint Mary's Regional Medical Center
235 W 6th St, Reno, NV 89503
Full-service hospital with emergency care, surgery, and specialized services
Northern Nevada Medical Center
2375 E Prater Way, Sparks, NV 89434
Acute care hospital serving Reno-Sparks area with emergency and specialty services
Specialty Care Centers
Renown Institute for Cancer
Comprehensive cancer care with radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology
Renown Institute for Heart & Vascular Health
Cardiac catheterization, cardiac surgery, and comprehensive cardiovascular care
Sierra Neuroscience Institute
Neurological and neurosurgical care for complex brain and spine conditions
Orthopedic Centers
Joint replacement, sports medicine, and comprehensive bone and joint care
Network Considerations
Important Network Notes
- • HMO Plans: Must choose a primary care physician and get referrals for specialists
- • PPO Plans: More flexibility to see specialists without referrals, but may cost more
- • Out-of-Network Care: May be covered in emergencies but will cost significantly more
- • California Border: Some plans may include California providers for border residents
- • Rural Washoe County: Limited network options in rural areas - check provider directories carefully
Prescription Drug Coverage
Most Medicare Advantage plans in Reno include prescription drug coverage (Part D) as part of the plan benefits. Understanding formularies and coverage phases helps you choose the right plan for your medications.
2026 Coverage Phases
1. Deductible Phase
Pay full drug costs until reaching deductible ($590 maximum for 2026)
2. Initial Coverage
Pay copays/coinsurance until total costs reach $5,280 (2026)
3. Coverage Gap
Pay 25% of brand-name drugs, 25% of generics
4. Catastrophic Coverage
Pay minimal amounts after reaching $8,550 out-of-pocket (2026)
Reno Area Pharmacies
National Chains
CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid - Usually in all networks
Grocery Store Pharmacies
Walmart, Smith's, Raley's, Sak 'N Save
Local Independent
Professional Pharmacy, Northgate Pharmacy
Mail Order
90-day supplies often available with cost savings
Drug Coverage Tips for Reno Residents
- • Check if your current medications are on the plan's formulary
- • Compare copays for your specific drugs across different plans
- • Consider mail-order pharmacy options for maintenance medications
- • Look for plans with $0 deductible for generic medications
- • Verify your preferred pharmacy is in the plan's network
- • Ask about manufacturer discount programs for expensive brand-name drugs
Medicare Enrollment Periods
Understanding when you can enroll in or change Medicare Advantage plans is crucial for Reno residents. Missing enrollment periods can limit your options and may result in penalties.
Annual Open Enrollment
When: October 15 - December 7, 2025 (for 2026 coverage)
- • Switch between Medicare Advantage plans
- • Change from Medicare Advantage to Original Medicare + Medigap
- • Add or drop Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage
- • Make changes that take effect January 1, 2026
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment
When: January 1 - March 31, 2026
- • Switch to a different Medicare Advantage plan
- • Drop Medicare Advantage and return to Original Medicare
- • Add a Medicare Part D plan if dropping Medicare Advantage
- • One-time opportunity each year
Special Enrollment Periods
When: Triggered by qualifying life events
- • Moving outside your plan's service area
- • Losing employer or union coverage
- • Qualifying for Medicare due to disability
- • Changes in Medicaid or Extra Help status
Choosing the Right Plan
Selecting the best Medicare Advantage plan for your Reno lifestyle requires careful consideration of your healthcare needs, budget, preferred doctors, and prescription medications.
Plan Selection Checklist for Reno Residents
Healthcare Needs
- □ Current doctors in network?
- □ Preferred hospital coverage?
- □ Specialist access needed?
- □ Chronic condition management?
- □ Planned surgeries or procedures?
Financial Considerations
- □ Monthly premium budget
- □ Deductible preferences
- □ Maximum out-of-pocket comfort level
- □ Prescription drug costs
- □ Extra benefits value
Reno-Specific Considerations
Geographic Coverage
If you live in rural Washoe County or travel frequently to California, ensure your plan covers care in those areas.
Seasonal Residents
Snowbirds should verify coverage when traveling to other states, especially Arizona and California.
Mountain Recreation
If you're active in Lake Tahoe or mountain areas, consider plans with good emergency coverage and out-of-area benefits.
Washoe County Resources
Reno and Washoe County residents have access to numerous local resources for Medicare assistance, including government programs, non-profit organizations, and community support services.
Government Resources
Nevada SHIP Program - Northern Nevada
(775) 688-2964
Free, unbiased Medicare counseling and assistance
Washoe County Senior Services
1155 E 9th St, Reno, NV 89512
Medicare education and enrollment assistance
Social Security Administration - Reno
1170 Harvard Way, Reno, NV 89502
Medicare enrollment and benefit questions
Community Resources
Reno Senior Center
1155 E 9th St, Reno, NV 89512
Medicare seminars and one-on-one counseling
Sparks Senior Center
98 Richards Way, Sparks, NV 89431
Educational programs and Medicare assistance
Nevada 2-1-1
Dial 2-1-1 or visit nv211.org
Comprehensive resource referrals and assistance
Important Phone Numbers for Reno Residents
Medicare: 1-800-MEDICARE (633-4227)
Nevada SHIP: (775) 688-2964
Medicaid: (800) 992-0900
Social Security: (800) 772-1213
Nevada Division of Insurance: (775) 687-0700
Washoe County Health: (775) 328-2400
Reno Medicare FAQs
Q: How many Medicare Advantage plans are available in Reno for 2026?
Reno residents have access to 15+ Medicare Advantage plans for 2026 from major insurers including Health Plan of Nevada, Humana, UnitedHealthcare, Anthem, Aetna, and Silver Summit.
Q: Are there $0 premium Medicare Advantage plans in Reno?
Yes, several insurers offer $0 monthly premium Medicare Advantage plans in Reno. However, you'll still pay the Medicare Part B premium ($190/month in 2026) plus any plan deductibles and copays.
Q: Can I keep my current doctors with a Medicare Advantage plan?
It depends on which plan you choose and whether your doctors are in the plan's network. Before enrolling, verify that your preferred providers accept your chosen Medicare Advantage plan.
Q: Do Medicare Advantage plans cover care when I travel?
Emergency care is covered nationwide, but routine care may be limited to your plan's service area. If you travel frequently or are a snowbird, look for plans with out-of-area coverage benefits.
Q: What's the difference between HMO and PPO Medicare Advantage plans?
HMO plans require you to choose a primary care doctor and get referrals for specialists, but typically cost less. PPO plans offer more flexibility to see specialists without referrals but may have higher costs.
Q: When can I change my Medicare Advantage plan?
The main enrollment period is October 15 - December 7 for coverage starting January 1. There's also a Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment from January 1 - March 31 for one additional change opportunity.
Ready to Find Your Perfect Reno Medicare Plan?
Get personalized help comparing Medicare Advantage plans and finding the best coverage for your needs and budget in Washoe County.