By Pam, Your Nurse Advocate Consulting
Medicare Open Enrollment Season is Here—Let’s Get Ready
It’s that time of year again—Medicare Annual Enrollment! (AEP). Whether you’re enrolling for the first time or reviewing your current plan, the process can feel overwhelming. But with a little preparation (and the right support), you can make confident choices for your health and your wallet.
Why Is Medicare Annual Enrollment So Important?
The annual Medicare Open Enrollment period is your once-a-year opportunity to make changes that can better support your health and your finances. Even if you’re happy with your current coverage, this window gives you the freedom to shop around for better rates, switch to plans with improved benefits, or adjust your prescription coverage if your medications have changed. It’s also a chance to take advantage of any new offerings, like expanded telehealth or lower out-of-pocket costs for medications. By reviewing your options each year, you can ensure your plan still fits your needs—and avoid any surprises in the year ahead.
You can now start looking at new plans beginning October 1 but enrollment cannot begin until October 15.
***There has been a lot of attention drawn on the company United Health Care or UHC they also have a plan associated with AARP. Please check with your doctor and clinic as well as the local hospital to see if they are going to continue to accept United Healthcare. In our area in Wisconsin, we are seeing large healthcare organizations stop accepting United Healthcare this final quarter of the year.
Every plan is a bit different. It is important to do your due diligence when selecting a plan. We had a bad experience with one insurance company with my own mom.
At Your Nurse Advocate Consulting, we know how confusing Medicare can be. That’s why we created our Medicare Open Enrollment Workbook—a step-by-step guide to help you gather the right info, compare plans, and feel prepared for your meeting with an advisor, insurance agent, or if you decide to enroll on your own. Learn more with a free 30-minute consultation.
What Is Medicare Annual Enrollment?
Medicare Open Enrollment runs from October 15 to December 7 each year. During this window, you can: Information on the 2026 plans are available October 1, 2025
- Join, switch, or drop a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C)
- Change your prescription drug coverage (Part D)
- Return to Original Medicare if you’re in an Advantage Plan
- Supplement vs Advantage Plan
Even if you’re happy with your current plan, it’s smart to review your coverage. Plans, premiums, and drug formularies can change every year!
What Should You Bring to Your Enrollment Meeting?
To make the most of your time (and avoid headaches), have these items ready:
- Your Medicare card and any supplemental insurance cards
- A list of your current medications (with dosages)
- Your preferred pharmacy and doctors’ names
- A summary of your current health conditions and needs
- Last year’s plan information (if renewing or comparing)
- Your completed Medicare Annual Enrollment Workbook
- Have you or do you plan on moving or relocating in the near future.
- Do you travel? Do you travel outside of the country? Are you a snow bird living in another state part-time in the winter months?
- Do you or your spouse have VA Benefits?
Having this information handy helps your advisor match you with the best plan for your unique needs.
What’s Changing for Medicare in 2026?
While most changes for 2026 are still being finalized, here are a few updates to keep on your radar:
- Prescription Drug Cost Cap: Under the Inflation Reduction Act, out-of-pocket costs for Part D prescription drugs will be increased to a cap of $2,100 per year starting in 2026. This is a big win for seniors with high medication costs but a $100 cost increase from last year.
- Insulin and Vaccine Coverage: Expanded coverage for insulin and recommended vaccines continues, with no deductible for certain vaccines.
- Plan Premiums and Formularies: As always, individual plan premiums, covered drugs, and provider networks may change. Review your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) letter for details.
- Telehealth Flexibility: Some telehealth coverage flexibilities, introduced during the pandemic, are expected to continue, but check your plan for specifics.
For the latest updates, visit the official Medicare website or talk to a trusted advisor or feel free to inquire with us.
Can You Change Your Medicare Plan Outside of Open Enrollment?
Yes! While the annual Open Enrollment period is the main opportunity to review and change your Medicare coverage, there are other times and special circumstances when you may be eligible to make changes. These are called Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs) and can be triggered by certain life events, such as moving to a new address, losing other insurance coverage, qualifying for Medicaid, or your plan changing its contract with Medicare.
There’s also a separate Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period from January 1 to March 31 each year, where those already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan can switch to another Advantage plan or return to Original Medicare. If you experience a major life change, don’t wait—reach out to a trusted advisor or patient advocate to explore your options as soon as possible.
Where to Find Reliable Medicare Information
- Medicare.gov – Official Website
- State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)
- Your Medicare Open Enrollment Workbook – Schedule a free up to 30-minute discovery call to learn more.
- Our YouTube Video with Wendi owner of Integrity Insurance Group interview on the upcoming Annual Medicare Enrollment Period.
Need Help? We’re Here for You
If you’re feeling unsure or want a nurse advocate’s perspective, reach out! We can walk you through the workbook, answer your questions, and even join you for your enrollment meeting—virtually or in person.
Remember: The right Medicare plan makes a world of difference for your health, your peace of mind, and your budget. Let’s make this year’s enrollment your best yet!
Sources:
- Medicare.gov – What’s New for 2026
- Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services – 2026 Updates
- SHIP National Network
- Kaiser Family Foundation – Medicare Changes
- Your Nurse Advocate Free Resources
Thank you for spending time with us this week. We’re so glad to be part of your journey in caring for your aging loved ones. It’s an honor to share resources, insights, and a little encouragement to support you along the way. We look forward to bringing you more helpful tools and compassionate guidance in the weeks ahead. See you back here soon!
With care,
Pam and Linda
Your Nurse Advocates
“Compassionate Care for Aging Adults Along With Peace of Mind for the Family”
About the Authors
At Your Nurse Advocate Consulting, Pam and Linda’s mission is to empower aging adults and their families to take control of their health, prepare for life’s uncertainties, and secure their peace of mind. We are dedicated to providing compassionate guidance, personalized support, and expert resources to help our clients navigate complex medical needs and organize their personal affairs.
As independent patient advocates we have a steadfast commitment to clarity, family well-being, and empowerment, we strive to make a meaningful impact by ensuring our clients feel confident, prepared, and cared for every step of the way on their healthcare journey.
Expert Guidance You Can Trust
With over 80 combined years of R.N. experience navigating the complex healthcare system, we stand as trusted guides for seniors and their families. Our expertise ensures they can access the care and resources they need without feeling overwhelmed by red tape or confusion.
