5 Ways Virtual Learning Can Improve Medicare Advantage Star Ratings

With Medicare Advantage (MA) enrollment surpassing 30 million beneficiaries (KFF, 2023), competition among plans has never been fiercer. At the same time, Star Ratings are increasingly tied to member experience, preventive care, and overall quality measures (CMS, 2022). Plans that excel stand to receive higher rebates, stronger enrollment, and a reputation for delivering exceptional care. But in an era of cost constraints and evolving member expectations, how can MA plans push their Star Ratings higher without burdening staff or budget?

Enter virtual learning. By offering classes and digital health education, MA plans empower older adults with the skills and knowledge to manage their health more confidently—all while addressing key Star Rating domains such as preventive care, medication adherence, and member satisfaction.

1. Driving Better Preventive Care Uptake

Online classes on topics like “Annual Wellness Visits: What You Need to Know” or “Managing Your Diabetes: Tips and Tools” help members recognize the value of early screenings, immunizations, and scheduled check-ups. When older adults understand how routine tests or vaccines benefit them, they’re more likely to complete these services—directly improving the plan’s HEDIS and CAHPS scores.

2. Boosting Medication Adherence

Poor medication adherence contributes to higher healthcare costs and lower quality scores (Humana, 2021). Through virtual workshops on pillbox organization, refill reminders, and side-effect management, members learn practical ways to stay on track. Better adherence means fewer avoidable hospitalizations and an uptick in the plan’s Star measure performance for medication-related indicators.

3. Increasing Digital Literacy for Telehealth & Portals

Many seniors lack confidence in using telehealth or online portals (Pew Research Center, 2021). Virtual learning can fill that gap. Classes like “Telehealth 101” or “Navigating Your Plan’s Member Portal” give older adults the hands-on experience to schedule virtual doctor visits or update personal information. This not only alleviates call center volume but also improves access—a key factor in CAHPS satisfaction scores (CMS, 2022).

4. Enhancing Member Experience & Satisfaction

Studies show that engaging members in health education leads to higher satisfaction and lower disenrollment (JD Power, 2023). Interactive virtual sessions, guided by supportive instructors or peers, create a sense of community and trust. When members feel their plan is proactively investing in their well-being, they rate their plan higher in CAHPS surveys—driving Star Ratings up.

5. Supporting Social Determinants of Health (SDOH)

Virtual learning can also address social isolation—one of the most pressing SDOH issues for older adults. Classes on fitness, nutrition, or even hobby-based topics connect members with others who share similar interests. A more socially engaged member is more likely to remain proactive about their health, reducing the risk of expensive acute events and further supporting Star measures tied to overall health outcomes (SCAN, 2022).

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Virtual learning isn’t just an “extra benefit”; it’s a strategic tool that helps Medicare Advantage plans boost Star Ratings by improving preventive care, medication adherence, digital literacy, member satisfaction, and social engagement. By offering accessible, relevant online classes, MA plans empower seniors to take control of their health—leading to higher quality scores, better retention, and a stronger competitive edge in an evolving market.