Every fall, Medicare provides millions of beneficiaries with a crucial window to review their healthcare coverage. But year after year, many people let Medicare’s open enrollment period pass without making changes, simply assuming that their current plan is the best choice.
While sticking with what you know is comfortable, sitting out open enrollment is a decision you might regret. Here’s why it’s crucial to review your Medicare plan choices while you can.
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Plans can change every year
Medicare Advantage and Part D drug plans are not set in stone. Each year, insurance providers adjust their coverage terms, premiums, and benefits.
Your current Medicare plan may be undergoing subtle changes for the upcoming year, such as shifting prescription tiers so your medications cost more. Monthly premium costs, annual deductibles, and maximum out-of-pocket limits can also increase.
Make sure to review your plan’s annual notice of change so you don’t gloss over any important updates. Having that information could help you find a more suitable plan for 2027.
You could save money
One of the most compelling reasons to compare plan options during open enrollment is to take advantage of potential savings. By comparing available Medicare plans in your area, you may find an option that offers comparable coverage (or even better) for a lower monthly premium or reduced deductible.
You might also save money by virtue of expanded benefits. If your current Medicare Advantage plan, for example, doesn’t offer a fitness club membership but another one does at the same cost, you could save yourself a gym fee each month.
Your health needs could change
Your health may not be exactly the same as it was a year ago. Maybe you’ve been diagnosed with a new condition, started a new prescription, or scheduled an upcoming surgery.
It’s important to review your coverage choices, because a plan that served you well up until now may not be an ideal fit for 2027. A new diagnosis, for example, could mean that you’d benefit from extra perks that your current Medicare Advantage plan doesn’t offer but another one might.
Take action before the deadline
Medicare’s open enrollment period runs through Dec. 7, so you still have about another month to make changes to your coverage for 2027. But don’t wait until the last minute.
In the coming weeks, gather your current list of medications, contact your preferred doctors to confirm their network status, and use Medicare’s Plan Finder online to explore the plans available in your ZIP code. Spending just a few hours reviewing your options could protect your health and wallet all year long.
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