Essence Healthcare Announces 2027 Medicare Advantage Plans for Chicago

Doctor-founded health plan continues to deliver trusted local care, affordable options and valuable benefits to Chicago Medicare members

CHICAGO, Oct. 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Essence Healthcare today announced its 2027 Medicare Advantage plans for the greater Chicago region, continuing its commitment to deliver value and making healthcare easier and more convenient for members. Entering its third year serving Chicagoland, Essence is expanding into into Kane and Kendall counties, offering plan options with affordable coverage, valuable benefits and access to leading local health systems and trusted local providers.

Founded by physicians, Essence's doctor-designed, value-based care model supports strong relationships with trusted local providers, better care coordination and a healthcare experience centered on members' needs.

"As we enter our third year in Chicagoland, we remain committed to growing alongside this community and delivering what matters most to members: access to trusted local doctors, strong benefits, affordable options and support that makes healthcare easier to navigate," said Jordan Reigel, president of Essence Healthcare. "Our expansion into Kane and Kendall counties will bring these options to more people eligible for Medicare, while we continue strengthening local relationships and making it simpler for members to use their benefits and manage their health."

2027 Plan Highlights

People eligible for Medicare in Chicagoland will have access to a selection of HMO and PPO plans that include*:

• Access to trusted local care: Essence's provider network includes Endeavor Health, University of Chicago Medicine / AdventHealth, Duly Health and Care, Silver Cross / Essential Health Partners and Oak Street Health, among others.
• Affordable options and comprehensive benefits: Premiums starting at $0 and select plans offer Flex Card benefits of up to $2,500 for eligible expenses.
• Prescription drug continuity: Approximately 98% of covered medications in 2026 will remain on the formulary for 2027.
• Support for members' health and well-being: Dental, vision, hearing and fitness benefits, with offerings varying by plan.

Costco Added to Preferred Pharmacy Network

Costco will join Essence's preferred retail pharmacy network in 2027, giving members another convenient option for filling prescriptions. Members can also use eligible over-the-counter Flex Card dollars for qualifying purchases at Costco.

Investing in the Greater Chicago Community

Essence's commitment to Chicagoland extends beyond healthcare coverage. Through partnerships with local organizations, including Loaves & Fishes Community Services and Meals on Wheels, Essence supports efforts to help older adults access healthy meals and other community resources.

Making Healthcare Easier to Manage

Essence continues to invest in tools and benefits that make it easier for members to manage their healthcare and take a more active role in their health. For 2027, Essence is introducing a redesigned member portal that brings important healthcare and benefit information together in one place. Members will be able to access claims and ID cards, navigate benefits, find answers through a new Knowledge Base, and receive relevant health and plan information. Members will also have access to the MyEssence mobile app to help manage their plan on the go.

Enrollment Details

More than one million people in Chicagoland are eligible for Medicare. Medicare's Annual Enrollment Period runs from Oct. 15 through Dec. 7, 2026, for coverage beginning Jan. 1, 2027.

To enroll in an Essence plan, individuals must have both Medicare Parts A and B and reside in the plan's service area. People eligible for Medicare can review 2027 plan options at www.essencehealthcare.com or calling 1-866-509-5398 (TTY: 711), 8 a.m.-8:00 p.m. seven days a week.

About Essence Healthcare

Essence Healthcare provides over 60,000 people with comprehensive and affordable Medicare health insurance that focuses on wellness, care coordination and personal service. Essence's Medicare Advantage plans offer complete hospital, medical and prescription drug coverage and include additional benefits not covered under the Original Medicare program. Essence is powered by Lumeris' population health services and technology. For 2027, Essence's Medicare Advantage plans are available in Illinois, Missouri, Arkansas, Indiana, and Kentucky. To learn more about Essence Healthcare, please visit EssenceHealthcare.com.

Essence Healthcare includes HMO and PPO plans with Medicare contracts. Enrollment in Essence Healthcare depends on contract renewal.

*Benefits and amounts vary by plan.

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SOURCE Essence Healthcare