Medicare Open Enrollment 2026 runs from October 15 through December 7. Any coverage changes made during this period generally take effect January 1, 2027. You do not need to choose a plan in August, but now is a good time to gather information about your health, medications, providers, pharmacies, and expected healthcare needs.
Preparing early can make it easier to review your current coverage when next year’s plan information becomes available.
When Is Medicare Open Enrollment 2026?
The annual Medicare Open Enrollment Period begins October 15 and ends December 7. During this time, people with Medicare may be able to change Medicare Advantage plans, change prescription drug plans, or change how they receive Medicare coverage.
According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Medicare health and drug plans can change their costs, coverage, provider networks, and participating pharmacies from one year to the next. Even if your current coverage worked well this year, it deserves another look before 2027.
What Should You Review Before October 15?
You do not have to compare every plan right now. Start by creating a clear picture of the care you use and what you may need next year.
1. Your current medications
Make a list of every prescription medication you take, including the medication name, dosage, and how often you take it. Include medications prescribed by specialists as well as your primary care provider.
Your medication list can help you determine whether your prescriptions are covered and what they may cost under a particular drug plan. Our guide to medication safety for older adults explains why keeping this information current also supports safer care.
2. Your healthcare providers
Write down the names of your primary care provider, specialists, hospitals, laboratories, therapy providers, and other healthcare facilities you regularly use.
Provider networks may change. Before enrolling in a plan, confirm participation directly with both the insurance plan and the provider’s office. Do not rely only on an old directory or assume that last year’s information is still correct.
3. Your preferred pharmacies
Include the local, specialty, and mail-order pharmacies you use. A pharmacy may be in a plan’s network but not have its preferred pricing. That difference can affect what you pay for prescriptions.
4. Recent changes in your health
Think about new diagnoses, medication changes, hospital stays, mobility concerns, or referrals to specialists. Also consider care you expect to need in 2027, such as procedures, therapy, medical equipment, diagnostic testing, or more frequent appointments.
A plan that fit your needs before a health change may deserve a closer review afterward.
5. Your healthcare costs
Look beyond the monthly premium. Review deductibles, copayments, coinsurance, prescription costs, out-of-pocket limits, prior-authorization requirements, and other rules that could affect your care.
The lowest premium does not always mean the lowest total cost. Your medications, providers, and expected services all matter.
6. Your plan notices
Watch for your plan’s Annual Notice of Change in September. This document explains changes in costs, coverage, and other plan details that will take effect in January. Medicare recommends reviewing the notice to determine whether your coverage will continue to meet your needs.
How Can Your Primary Care Provider Help?
Your primary care provider does not choose an insurance plan for you. However, your provider can help you better understand your current health needs.
Before Open Enrollment, consider scheduling a visit to review chronic conditions, medications, recent health changes, specialist care, preventive needs, and treatments that may continue into 2027. This information can help you ask more informed questions when reviewing coverage.
Healthy Connections accepts Medicare and provides primary care services at locations throughout Western and Central Arkansas.
Need Help With Insurance Questions?
Financial Assistance and Enrollment HelpHealthy Connections has certified assisters who provide free help with insurance questions and issues. Their services include Medicare Savings Program information. They can also help you understand where to begin or connect you with the appropriate support.
For official Medicare plan information and comparisons, visit Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE at 1-800-633-4227.
Medicare Open Enrollment Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to change my Medicare coverage every year?
No. If your current coverage remains available and continues to meet your needs, you may decide to keep it. You should still review your plan notices and next year’s costs and coverage.
What should I have ready before reviewing coverage?
Gather your medication list, provider and specialist names, preferred pharmacies, recent health changes, expected care needs, and questions about costs or coverage.
When will changes made during Open Enrollment begin?
Changes made during the October 15–December 7 Open Enrollment Period generally take effect January 1, 2027.
Get Ready Before Fall
A little preparation now can make Medicare Open Enrollment 2026 easier to manage. Call Healthy Connections at 888-710-8220 to schedule a primary care appointment or ask to be connected with a certified assister. Learn more at www.healthy-connections.org.