Each year, Medicare beneficiaries get a limited window of time to make important decisions about their health and drug coverage. Medicare Open Enrollment (October 15 – December 7) is your chance to review your current plan, compare new options, and make sure you’re getting the best coverage for the upcoming year.
When this period ends, your ability to change plans becomes very limited. Here’s what every Medicare beneficiary should know before the deadline.
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🗓️ The Deadline Is December 7 — And It’s Firm
Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period runs from October 15 through December 7.
During this time, you can:
• Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan
• Switch from Medicare Advantage back to Original Medicare
• Change your Medicare Advantage plan
• Join, drop, or switch a Part D prescription drug plan
Any changes you make will begin January 1.
If you don’t take action by December 7, you’ll typically need to wait until next year unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.
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🩺 Review Your Current Coverage
A common mistake is letting your plan automatically renew without reviewing what’s changing. Medicare Advantage and Part D plans adjust their benefits, premiums, deductibles, networks, and drug formularies every year.
Before you renew, check:
• Are your doctors and specialists still in-network?
• Are your prescriptions still covered—and at what tier?
• Did your premiums, co-pays, or deductibles change?
• Does your plan still fit your health needs and budget?
A few minutes of review now can help you avoid surprises in the new year.
Here is an excellent resource for Open Enrollment: https://www.terrysavage.com/medicare-beware-a-special-report/
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💊 Check Your Prescription Drug Coverage
Medications are one of the biggest reasons beneficiaries review their plans each year. Part D plans frequently update their drug lists, pharmacy networks, and pricing.
Make sure to:
• Verify your current prescriptions are still included
• Check if any medications moved to a different tier
• Review costs at your preferred local pharmacy
• Consider mail-order options that may reduce expenses
If your medications changed this year—or if your plan did—you may be able to save significantly by switching.
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💰 Look for Better Value
Part D plans vary widely in cost and benefits.
You may find:
• Plans with lower premiums or deductibles
• Additional benefits like dental, vision, fitness, or transportation
• Plans that offer better prescription coverage
• Lower out-of-pocket costs for the same services
Even if you’re happy with your current coverage, it’s smart to compare. Many beneficiaries discover a plan each year that better fits their budget or health needs.
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🧾 If You Miss the Deadline
If you don’t make changes by December 7, your options become limited.
You may still qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) if you:
• Move to a new address
• Lose other credible coverage
• Enroll in or leave a Medicare Savings Program
• Experience a qualifying life or plan-related event
But for most people, missing the deadline means waiting until next year to update coverage.
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✅ Final Thoughts
Medicare Open Enrollment is your yearly opportunity to make sure your coverage works for you—not the other way around. Plans change, your health changes, and your needs change. Taking a little time now ensures you have the right benefits, doctors, and prescription coverage for the year ahead.
Don’t wait until the last minute. Medicare Open Enrollment ends December 7, and new coverage begins January 1.
