Medicare’s annual enrollment period runs from October 15 through December 7 each year. During this period, people with Medicare Part C, also called Medicare Advantage, or Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage can review their plans and make changes for the coming year. Understanding your options can help you choose coverage that continues to meet your needs.
Review Changes to Your Medicare Coverage and Healthcare Needs
Medicare Advantage and Part D plans change every year. At the same time, your healthcare needs and preferences may also change.
To make sure your plan still meets your needs, you will want to:
- Confirm that your current doctors still participate in the plan.
- Check whether any new doctors participate in the plan.
- Consider whether changes in your healthcare needs may affect your coverage.
- Review any new or changed prescriptions.
- Check whether your preferred pharmacy works with the plan.
Change Your Medicare Part D or Medicare Advantage Plan
The changes available to you depend on the type of Medicare coverage you currently have:
- Medicare Part D: If you have a standalone prescription drug plan, you can enroll in another Part D plan that better meets your needs.
- Medicare Advantage: If your current plan no longer meets your needs, you can switch to another Medicare Advantage plan or insurance carrier.
- Original Medicare with a Medicare Supplement: If you are satisfied with your Medicare Supplement, you can keep it and change only your Part D prescription drug plan.
Annual enrollment gives you an opportunity to compare your current coverage with other available plans before deciding whether to make a change.
Compare Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage Coverage
If your Medicare Supplement premiums are becoming too expensive, annual enrollment gives you an opportunity to:
- Compare Medicare Advantage plans to determine whether one may better fit your needs.
- Decide whether to keep your current Medicare Supplement or move to Medicare Advantage.
- Use the 12-month trial period Medicare provides when moving from Original Medicare and a Medicare Supplement to Medicare Advantage. If the new plan does not meet your needs, this period may allow you to return to your previous coverage.
Even if you decide not to change your coverage, comparing your options gives you information based on your particular situation.
Review Your Medicare Options With an MBhealth Agent
Medicare coverage decisions require a detailed, personalized discussion. An MBhealth agent can review your current plan, healthcare needs, prescriptions, providers, and available options with you. Call MBhealth at (314) 544-5400 or visit mbhealth.com.
