Prepare for 2026: Key strategies for health plans to boost HEDIS and Star Ratings
Editor’s note: this is the second of a two-part series offering insight to what health plans need to know to make actionable decisions about member strategies to positively impact HEDIS and Star Ratings. Click here to view part 1.
HEDIS scores are just one of six factors that can affect your Star Ratings, but they will become more heavily weighted in 2026, jumping up to 25% of the total score. Health plans will want to start now to implement change, with the goal of improving those scores. In addition to the strategies listed in the first blog, your organization will want to:
Deliver information in multiple formats
It’s no surprise that people absorb information in different ways. To maximize engagement, you should provide health education content in various formats — think videos, interactive tools, and articles. Incorporating this inclusive approach caters to diverse learning preferences, which in turn can improve recall. Offering content in multiple languages has the additional benefit of ensuring that information is accessible to all members, fostering equity in care.
Leverage data insights to boost engagement
Tracking member engagement data is important, because it can reveal how members interact with the content provided, further guiding your ongoing strategy. Detailed analytics allow care managers to see which resources are most effective, and then tailor follow-ups accordingly. This data-driven approach to member engagement improves the impact of health education efforts, helping members take meaningful actions toward better health.
Maximize efficiency through automation and smart tools
Invest in technologies that streamline care management processes. For example, automation can identify high-risk patients and potential health opportunities, freeing up care managers to focus on those meaningful interactions that drive results. Efficient, integrated tools also help provide timely, accurate health education, ensuring members receive actionable information at the moment it matters most.
Preparing for 2026 — and beyond
As HEDIS measures gain prominence, now is the time for health plans to implement changes that will support higher Star Ratings. By investing in digital care solutions and leveraging data-driven insights, health plans can build a foundation for success in 2026, and continue it for years to come.
There’s no better time to learn more than right now. We’ve created a white paper on how to implement change and improve HEDIS scores for your organization. Check it out.
