If you’re on Medicare, autumn doesn’t just bring cooler weather and colorful leaves, it also brings one of the most important times of the year for your health coverage. Each year from October 7 through December 10, Medicare’s Annual Open Enrollment Period gives beneficiaries a chance to review, compare, and make changes to their existing Medicare plans.
Even if you’re happy with your current coverage, this period is too important to ignore. Plans can change from year to year — and so can your health needs. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is Medicare Open Enrollment?
Medicare’s Annual Open Enrollment (sometimes called the Annual Election Period) is the time when people already enrolled in Medicare can make adjustments to their coverage for the following year.
During this window — October 7 through December 10 — you can:
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Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C).
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Switch from Medicare Advantage back to Original Medicare.
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Change from one Medicare Advantage Plan to another.
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Enroll in, drop, or change your Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (Part D).
Any changes you make during this period take effect January 1 of the following year.
Why Open Enrollment Matters — Even If You’re Happy With Your Plan
Many people assume that once they’ve chosen a Medicare plan, they can “set it and forget it.” Unfortunately, that approach can lead to surprises — and unnecessary costs. Here’s why it pays to participate every year:
Plans Change Annually. Premiums, copays, deductibles, and covered medications often change from year to year. A plan that worked well for you this year might cost more or cover less next year.
Your Health Needs May Have Changed. New diagnoses, prescriptions, or treatments can affect which plan provides the best coverage and value for your situation.
Providers Come and Go. If your preferred doctor or hospital leaves your current plan’s network, you could face higher out-of-pocket costs for care.
There May Be a Better Option. Every year, new Medicare Advantage and Part D plans enter the market. Comparing your options can reveal plans that offer better coverage, lower costs, or added benefits such as dental, vision, or hearing care.
The bottom line: Reviewing your plan each year isn’t just a formality — it’s a financial and health protection strategy.
How to Review and Compare Plans
If you’re not sure where to start, you’re not alone. Medicare can feel complex, but there are reliable tools and resources available to help.
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Use the Medicare Plan Finder at Medicare.gov to compare plans in your area side by side.
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Check your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC), which your current plan must send by the end of September. This document outlines any changes to costs, coverage, or provider networks.
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Consider your total health picture. Make a list of your prescriptions, regular providers, and anticipated health needs for the coming year before you start comparing.
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Seek professional guidance. You can contact your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for free, unbiased help reviewing your options.
Don’t Miss the Deadline
After December 10, you’ll need to keep your existing coverage for another year unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. That’s why it’s important to act early, gather your information, and make any changes in time.
Even if you decide to keep your current plan, taking an hour or two to confirm that it’s still the best fit is time well spent.
Need Trusted Medicare Resources? We Can Help.
At Lifescape Elder Care Law & Estate Planning, we know that Medicare decisions can affect your financial security, your care options, and your peace of mind. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of trusted Medicare resources in the Kansas City area that can help you understand your choices and get the support you need.
Download your free Medicare Resource List today.
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