Press Releases

Highmark’s Medicare Advantage plans continue to earn highest score in federal quality program in Pennsylvania

• Pennsylvania HMO and PPO plans once again scored 5 out of possible 5 Stars

PITTSBURGH (October 6, 2022) — Highmark announced today that its Community Blue, Complete Blue, Freedom Blue and Security Blue Medicare Advantage plans in Pennsylvania have once again achieved the highest possible quality rating from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).  These plans achieved 5 out of a possible 5 Stars for the second consecutive year.

Medicare Advantage Plans are evaluated on a scale of one to five. In arriving at the overall annual quality rating, CMS takes into account how well health plans score in five different categories including (1) keeping members healthy and up-to-date on preventive care measures, (2) managing chronic health conditions, (3) member responsiveness (4) handling problems and complaints, and (5) customer service.

Highmark maintains history of strong Star ratings.  Its Pennsylvania HMO and PPO products have been rated 4 Stars or higher for nine consecutive years.  This 5 Star rating demonstrates that Highmark continues to build upon its strong track record of ensuring members receive high quality care and a remarkable experience.

“We are very proud to once again achieve this 5-star rating,” said William Rayball, vice president of Quality for Highmark Federal Business. "The Star ratings continue to show that Highmark is committed to listening to our members. Not only are we continuously improving our benefits, networks and pricing year after year, but we are investing in innovative solutions to drive health outcomes and a positive experience as our members navigate their health journey."

Unlike traditional Medicare, Medicare Advantage plans limit the amount of out-of-pocket contribution a beneficiary is required to make. In addition to covering the same hospital and medical services as Medicare Parts A & B, Highmark Medicare Advantage plans include benefits for preventive care, hearing aids, vision and dental care, and popular fitness memberships.

For its 2023 Medicare Advantage plans, Highmark has made enhancements that will provide more value to Medicare members with lower premiums and copays, expanded supplemental benefits, and the introduction of new Medicare Advantage products to ensure a portfolio of plans that meets the needs of Pennsylvania consumers.

Every year, Medicare evaluates plans based on a 5-star rating system.

The annual election period for seniors to choose Medicare Advantage coverage for next year runs from Oct. 15 through Dec. 7.

Consumers can learn more about the CMS Star ratings at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) website.

Detailed descriptions of all Highmark Medicare Advantage plans are available by calling 1-800-318-1487 or at Medicare.highmark.com .

This information is not a complete description of benefits. Call the phone number on the back of your member ID card (TTY users may call 711) for more information.

Highmark Choice Company, Highmark Senior Health Company, and Highmark Senior Solutions Company are Medicare Advantage plans with a Medicare contract. HM Health Insurance Company is a PDP plan with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in Highmark Choice Company, Highmark Senior Health Company, Highmark Senior Solutions Company, and HM Health Insurance Company depends on contract renewal. Highmark Blue Shield, Highmark Choice Company, Highmark Senior Health Company, Highmark Senior Solutions Company, and HM Health Insurance Company are independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.