Spring is a season of renewal. We clean out closets, organize finances, and prepare for the months ahead. But there’s one important area many people forget to “spring clean” — their Medicare coverage.

If you’re on Medicare, March is one of the most important months of the year.

Many beneficiaries selected their plan during the Annual Enrollment Period last fall and haven’t looked at it since. Yet coverage details, provider networks, and prescription costs can change from year to year. A quick review now can prevent unexpected surprises later.

Why a March Medicare Review Matters

Medicare Supplement Rates May Increase

If you have a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan, it’s important to know that rates can increase over time. While benefits are standardized, premiums are not. Different carriers can charge very different rates for the exact same coverage.

The good news? In Illinois, Medicare Supplement plans can be changed at any time of the year, although approval may be subject to medical underwriting depending on your situation. Reviewing your rates annually may help ensure you’re not overpaying for identical benefits.

Prescription Drug Costs Can Shift

Even if your medications haven’t changed, your plan’s formulary might have. Drugs can move to a different pricing tier, copays may increase, or a pharmacy may no longer be considered “preferred.” These small adjustments can significantly impact what you pay throughout the year. It’s better to review early rather than discover changes at the pharmacy counter.

Doctor and Hospital Networks Can Change

Many Medicare Advantage plans adjust provider networks annually. You may still have the same plan name, but your doctor or specialist may no longer be in-network. Confirming this now can help you avoid higher out-of-pocket costs or the stress of finding new providers unexpectedly.

March Is Still a Window for Change

Many people are unaware that the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period runs from January 1 through March 31 each year.

If you are already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you have a one-time opportunity during this period to:

• Switch to another Medicare Advantage plan
• Or return to Original Medicare

After March 31, most individuals must wait until the Annual Enrollment Period in the fall to make changes. That makes March an important checkpoint for those who feel uncertain about their current coverage.

Life Changes Can Affect Medicare Decisions

Spring often brings transitions. You may be:

• Planning to retire this year
• Turning 65 soon
• Losing employer coverage
• Moving to a new ZIP code
• Helping a parent navigate Medicare

Each of these life events can impact enrollment timing, costs, and plan options. A proactive review can prevent missed deadlines and costly mistakes.

Education Leads to Confidence

Medicare can feel complex — and it’s understandable that many people feel overwhelmed. But clarity comes from asking the right questions and reviewing your options before issues arise.

A simple coverage check can:

• Confirm your doctors and prescriptions are covered
• Identify gaps in protection
• Ensure you’re not overpaying for the same benefits
• Provide peace of mind for the rest of the year

Spring is about fresh starts and smart planning. Giving your Medicare coverage a second look this March can help you move forward confidently — knowing your healthcare decisions align with your needs and your budget.

When it comes to Medicare, staying informed isn’t just helpful — it’s empowering.

Reach Out Today:

Whether you just have questions or simply want to confirm you’re still in the best spot, please reach out and be informed. Retiring or turning 65 this year? Now is the time to learn about the ABCs of Medicare.  Be Informed, Be Confident!

Shannon Redman is a licensed insurance consultant (broker) and resides here in the St. Charles area and owner of BoomerCare Health Solutions. He looks forward to helping you understand Medicare in simple terms and is available to meet in person, by phone, or email.