Centene Corporation (WellCare) Medicare Review (2026)
Comprehensive review of Centene/WellCare Medicare plans including coverage options, ratings, pros and cons, and how they compare to other carriers.
CMS Star Rating
3.5
States Served
38
MA Members
2.8M
Founded
1984
InsureRocket Rating
Centene/WellCare Overview
Centene Corporation is one of the largest managed care organizations in the country, operating Medicare Advantage plans primarily through its WellCare subsidiary. Following the 2020 merger with WellCare, Centene serves approximately 2.8 million Medicare Advantage members across 38 states, making it the third-largest MA insurer.
Centene/WellCare Medicare Plans
Through WellCare and its other brands, Centene offers Medicare Advantage HMO and PPO plans, stand-alone Part D prescription drug plans, and Dual-Eligible Special Needs Plans. Many plans include $0 premiums, dental and vision benefits, over-the-counter allowances, transportation, meal delivery, and fitness programs.
Plans Offered:
Coverage Areas
Centene/WellCare Medicare Advantage plans are available in 38 states with strength in Florida, Georgia, New York, Texas, and throughout the Southeast. Their rural market penetration is among the best in the industry.
Official Resources
- WellCare Medicare (Centene) — Plan Information— Official carrier site
- Medicare.gov — Plan Finder Tool— Compare Centene/WellCare plans in your zip code
- CMS.gov — 2026 Medicare Star Ratings— Verify Centene/WellCare's contract-level ratings
- SHIP — Free Medicare Counseling— Unbiased help comparing Centene/WellCare to local alternatives
Pros and Cons
Strengths
- Large and growing MA presence
- Strong dual-eligible focus
- Affordable plan options
- Rural market coverage
Weaknesses
- Integration of acquired brands ongoing
- Variable quality ratings
- Customer service challenges
Compare Other Insurance Companies
Related Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Centene/WellCare a good Medicare insurance company?
Centene/WellCare has a CMS star rating of 3.5 out of 5. Key strengths include Large and growing MA presence, Strong dual-eligible focus, Affordable plan options. However, some limitations include Integration of acquired brands ongoing and Variable quality ratings. The best plan depends on your specific healthcare needs and location.
What Medicare plans does Centene/WellCare offer?
Centene/WellCare offers the following Medicare products: Medicare Advantage HMO, Medicare Advantage PPO, Medicare Part D, Medicare-Medicaid Dual Plans. Plan availability varies by county, so check Centene/WellCare's website or Medicare.gov to see what is available in your area.
How many states does Centene/WellCare serve?
Centene/WellCare Medicare plans are available in approximately 38 states. Coverage areas and plan options vary by county within each state.
How do I enroll in a Centene/WellCare Medicare plan?
You can enroll in Centene/WellCare Medicare plans during the Initial Enrollment Period (around your 65th birthday), the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 - December 7), or during a Special Enrollment Period. Enroll through Medicare.gov, by contacting Centene/WellCare directly, or through a licensed insurance agent.
Disclaimer: Plan availability, benefits, and premiums vary by location. Contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE for complete information. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.