Medicare Open Enrollment help doesn’t have to begin with a big decision. Sometimes, the best first step is simply opening the letter from your current plan and seeing what’s changing next year.
If you’re managing prescriptions, doctor visits and everyday responsibilities, reviewing Medicare coverage can feel overwhelming. But you don’t have to sort through every option at once. A few small steps can make the process easier.
Medicare Open Enrollment runs from October 15 through December 7, 2026. During this period, people with Medicare can review and make changes to their health and prescription drug coverage for 2027. Changes generally take effect January 1, 2027, provided the plan receives the enrollment request by December 7.
And remember: reviewing your coverage doesn’t mean you have to change it.
As Tom and Joan Bennett share through Living Well with Healthy Connections, the important thing is to understand your options and make decisions that fit your healthcare needs.
Medicare Open Enrollment Help Starts With Your Plan Notice
If you have a Medicare Advantage or Medicare prescription drug plan, you should receive an Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) each fall.
This notice explains what may be different next year, including changes to costs, benefits and coverage.
Even if you’re happy with your current plan, take a few minutes to review it. Pay particular attention to:
- Prescription medications you take regularly
- Doctors, clinics and pharmacies you prefer
- Monthly premiums, deductibles and copayments
- Benefits and services you use throughout the year
A plan that worked well in 2026 may have different costs or coverage in 2027.
If you haven’t received your notice, contact your plan and ask for a copy.
Write Down Your Questions Before Comparing Plans
You don’t have to become a Medicare expert to make an informed decision.
Start with a simple list of your current prescriptions, preferred pharmacy, doctors and healthcare needs.
Then write down anything you’re unsure about.
Is my medication still covered? Is my pharmacy still in network? Will my copayment change? What will I pay to see a specialist?
Having these questions ready can make conversations with Medicare or your insurance plan more productive.
You can also use Medicare Plan Compare to review available health and prescription drug plans in your area.
Compare costs, medications, pharmacies and coverage. Before making a final decision, confirm important details directly with the plan.
Caregivers Can Help Without Taking Over
For many older adults, a spouse, adult child, friend or caregiver can make the review process easier.
They can help organize paperwork, compare information or write down questions before a phone call.
The important thing is to keep the person with Medicare involved in the decision.
Ask what concerns them most. Maybe it’s keeping a trusted doctor, managing prescription costs or avoiding unexpected medical bills.
If someone else will speak with Medicare or an insurance plan on their behalf, ask what authorization may be required to discuss private account or health information.
A little preparation can help everyone feel more comfortable.
Confirm Your Healthy Connections Coverage
Healthy Connections accepts Medicare and provides primary care and other healthcare services for patients across Arkansas.
But not every Medicare plan has the same provider network or coverage rules.
Before choosing or changing a plan, make sure your preferred Healthy Connections clinic, healthcare provider and needed services are covered.
Contact both the insurance plan and Healthy Connections to verify the details. Don’t assume that because a clinic accepts Medicare, it participates in every Medicare Advantage plan.
Our team can help answer questions about Healthy Connections services and appointments.
Call 888-710-8220 or visit healthy-connections.org.
Keep Your Information in One Place
Whether you decide to change plans or keep your current coverage, save your important paperwork.
Keep your Annual Notice of Change, medication list, notes and any enrollment confirmation numbers together.
If you speak with a plan representative, write down the date, the person’s name and any information you may need later.
For official Medicare information, visit Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users can call 1-877-486-2048.
You can also ask about your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), which provides free, personalized Medicare counseling.
Be careful with unexpected calls requesting your Medicare number, payment information or other personal details. If something doesn’t seem right, hang up and contact Medicare directly.
You don’t have to settle every question today.
Start by opening your plan notice and writing down one or two questions that matter most to your care in 2027. That’s a good first step toward making a confident decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to change my Medicare plan during Open Enrollment?
No. Medicare Open Enrollment gives you an opportunity to review your coverage and make changes if needed. You can keep your current coverage if it continues to meet your needs, although its costs or benefits may change for 2027.
When is Medicare Open Enrollment for 2027 coverage?
Medicare Open Enrollment runs from October 15 through December 7, 2026. Changes generally take effect January 1, 2027, if your plan receives your enrollment request by December 7.
How can I find out if Healthy Connections accepts my Medicare plan?
Contact your insurance plan and Healthy Connections to confirm that your preferred clinic, provider and needed services are covered. Call Healthy Connections at 888-710-8220 for information or appointments.