If your mailbox is anything like mine, it probably fills up quickly this time of year with Medicare advertisements, postcards, and plenty of mail you may be tempted to toss. But there is one piece of mail I encourage you not to throw away: your Annual Notice of Change, commonly called your ANOC.
Your ANOC explains what is changing with your current Medicare Advantage or Prescription Drug plan for 2027. This may include premiums, copays, prescription drug coverage, provider networks, pharmacy networks, and other benefits. Even if you’re happy with your current plan, take a few minutes to review it.
When Is the Annual Enrollment Period?
Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period, or AEP, runs every year from October 15th through December 7th. Changes made during this period generally take effect January 1st.
This is one of my busiest times of the year. I sit down with clients to review their coverage for the upcoming year. I also meet with people who simply want a second set of eyes on their current plan. There is no obligation to make a change. Sometimes, after reviewing everything, staying exactly where you are is the best choice!
What Can You Do During AEP?
During AEP, Medicare beneficiaries can change from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan, return from Medicare Advantage to Original Medicare, switch Medicare Advantage plans, or join, switch, or drop a Part D prescription drug plan.
One important reminder: AEP does not work the same way for Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policies. Medicare Supplements have different enrollment and underwriting rules.
Why Do I Recommend an Annual Review?
Clients often ask me, “Anna, I like my plan. Do I really need to review it every year?”
My answer is yes – not because you necessarily need to change plans, but because your plan can change even when your health hasn’t.
A client of mine was preparing for surgery and contacted me just before the December 7th deadline. During our review, we discovered that her physician group would no longer be participating in her plan’s network beginning January 1st. Thankfully, we caught it in time and were able to review her options before the deadline.
That experience is a great reminder that reviewing your doctors and provider network is important. I also encourage clients to review their prescriptions each year. Formularies, drug tiers, preferred pharmacies, and costs can change from one year to the next.
Don’t Wait Until December 7th
My best advice is simple: open your ANOC, read it, and ask questions. And please don’t wait until the final few days of AEP to start reviewing your options!
As an independent licensed health and life insurance broker, I complete annual Medicare certifications and stay current on changes to the plans available in our area. My goal isn’t simply to help you choose a plan – it’s to help you understand your options and feel confident about your Medicare coverage.
My office is located in the Green Valley Village Mall, and I welcome both current and prospective clients for a no-obligation Medicare plan review.
Here’s to heading into 2027 informed, prepared, and confident!
Anna Regina is a Licensed Health and Life Insurance Broker. Visit her at 101 La Canada Drive, Suite 50, in the Green Valley Village or at www.annareginains.com. For a No-Cost consultation, call Anna at 520-784-9670.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a complete description of benefits. Availability and benefits may vary by plan and location. For more information, please contact Medicare.gov or a licensed insurance professional. Not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program.
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