The time to make your plan changes for 2027 is rapidly approaching. Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period runs from October 15 through December 7, and a little preparation now can save you real headaches later. Here’s what you need to know.
Read Your Annual Notice of Change
In late September, you’ll receive your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) from your current plan. Don’t set it aside — it outlines exactly how your coverage will change for the coming year. Some plans are reducing benefits such as gym memberships and dental coverage, particularly on PPO plans, while many HMO plans are enhancing benefits to attract new members. In several areas, PPO plans are being discontinued altogether. You may also find that your plan is introducing a premium or medical deductible it didn’t have before. Take the time to read it carefully; it matters more than it looks.
Confirm Your Providers Are Still Covered
Make sure your plan will continue to cover your current providers next year. Most providers will notify you if they will no longer accept your plan or are leaving its network, but it’s worth confirming directly rather than assuming your mail didn’t get lost in the shuffle.
Review Your Drug Coverage
Check your plan’s drug formulary to be sure your prescriptions—especially any brand-name medications—will still be covered next year and at the cost you expect.
What to Expect in 2027
We anticipate that 2027 will be a year in which some Medicare Advantage plans are terminated, and more providers restrict which plans they’ll accept. If your Medicare Advantage plan is terminated, your enrollment deadline to choose a new plan is extended to February 28. However, if you take no action, your coverage will revert to Original Medicare effective January 1.
A plan termination isn’t only a disruption—it’s also an opportunity. You can enroll in a new Medicare Advantage plan available in your area or move to a standalone drug plan paired with a Medicare Supplement plan. The good news: because the termination wasn’t your choice, the supplement carrier cannot underwrite based on your medical history. Coverage is guaranteed issue.
Schedule a Free Plan Review
It’s always wise to have your plan reviewed by a licensed agent or SHIBA (the Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors) during the Annual Enrollment Period. A review helps you determine whether your current plan still fits your needs and gives you the information to make a confident, informed decision. Consultations are always free, and a reputable agent will give you an unbiased look at your options—and act as your advocate when you need one.
Don’t stay on autopilot. Reach out and schedule a review with your agent, or with me. At the very least, you’ll walk away with a clearer understanding of your current coverage and how your plan will work for you in 2027.
Here’s to your health!
Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements, and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media LLC (BVM) or any municipality, homeowners associations, businesses, or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability, or timeliness of any content submitted, inclusive of materials generated or composed through artificial intelligence (AI). All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party.
