Medicare Annual Enrollment Period: An Opportunity to Review and Change Your 2027 Coverage
Why Should You Review Your Medicare Plan Every Year?
Shanti
8/6/20262 min read
Medicare Annual Enrollment Period: An Opportunity to Review and Change Your 2027 Coverage
The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period runs from October 15 through December 7, 2026. During this time, people who are eligible for Medicare can review their current coverage and, if needed, make changes to their health or prescription drug plan for 2027.
Changes made by the end of December 7 will take effect on January 1, 2027.
What Changes Can You Make During the Annual Enrollment Period?
During this period, you may:
* Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan
* Switch from Medicare Advantage back to Original Medicare
* Change from one Medicare Advantage plan to another
* Enroll in a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan
* Change or cancel your current prescription drug plan
* Switch from a plan with prescription drug coverage to one without drug coverage, or vice versa
Why Should You Review Your Medicare Plan Every Year?
Medicare plan details may change from year to year. Even if you are satisfied with your current plan, it is important to review the following:
* Monthly premium
* Deductible and out of pocket costs
* Coverage for your current medications
* In network pharmacies
* In network doctors, hospitals, and specialists
* Dental, vision, and hearing benefits
* Costs for doctor visits and hospital stays
* Annual out of pocket maximum
A medication that is covered this year may have different coverage rules or costs next year. Your preferred doctor or hospital may also no longer participate in your plan’s network.
What Is Medicare Advantage?
Medicare Advantage plans, also known as Medicare Part C, are offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. These plans provide coverage for Medicare Parts A and B, and many also include Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage.
Some plans may offer additional benefits such as dental, vision, hearing, medical transportation, fitness memberships, or allowances for certain over the counter products. Benefits and plan availability may vary depending on the county where you live.
Do Not Choose a Plan Based Only on a Zero Dollar Premium
Some Medicare Advantage plans have a zero dollar monthly premium, but this does not mean that all medical services are free. When comparing plans, you should also review the costs for primary care visits, specialist visits, emergency care, hospital stays, prescription drugs, and the plan’s annual out of pocket maximum.
A plan that works well for one person may not be the right choice for someone else. Your medications, doctors, health needs, budget, and location should all be considered when choosing a plan.
Before selecting or changing a plan, gather the following information:
* The names and dosages of all medications you take
* The names of your doctors and specialists
* Your preferred hospital and pharmacy
* Your current Medicare card
* Your current health plan card
* Your ZIP code
* Your healthcare needs and preferred benefits
Reviewing this information carefully can help you choose a plan that better fits your medical and financial needs.
Do Not Wait Until the Last Few Days to Make a Decision
The deadline to enroll in or change a plan is December 7, 2026. It is best to start reviewing your options early so you have enough time to compare prescription drug coverage, provider networks, costs, and plan benefits.
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