Every fall, Medicare-eligible beneficiaries have a special opportunity to review, compare, enroll, or change their Medicare health coverage. This annual window is your chance to enroll in Original Medicare (Part A and Part B), a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C), or a Medicare Drug Coverage Plan (Part D).

If you are already enrolled in Medicare, this is an opportunity to consider switching to a different Medicare plan that better fits your needs. If you have Original Medicare (Part A and Part B), this is the time to consider switching to a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C), which typically includes benefits beyond Original Medicare, such as dental, vision, transportation, fitness programs, and more.

 

What Is Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)?

Medicare's Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) runs from October 15 through December 7 every year. During this seven-week window, Medicare-eligible beneficiaries can enroll in a Medicare plan or make changes to their Medicare coverage, including:

• Enrolling in a Medicare plan
• Switching from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan
• Switching from a Medicare Advantage plan back to Original Medicare
• Switch from your current Medicare Advantage plan to a different Medicare Advantage plan
• Adding, dropping, or switching Medicare Part D prescription drug plans
• Joining a Medicare Advantage Special Needs Plan (SNP) if you qualify

Any changes you make during this period will take effect on January 1 of the following year. If you switch to a different Medicare plan, Medicare will automatically inform your current plan about the change, and you'll be disenrolled from your existing plan without any additional steps required.

 

How to Navigate Your Medicare Plan Options During the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)

Making the right choice for your Medicare health coverage doesn't have to be overwhelming. Here's a step-by-step approach to help you find a plan that truly works for you:

1. Review Your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC)

Your current Medicare plan will send you an Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) that outlines any updates to plan benefits, costs, or coverage that will take effect on January 1st. Pay close attention to:

• Changes in monthly premiums
• Updates to copays and deductibles
• Modifications to your prescription drug formulary
• Network changes that might affect your current doctors and specialists

2. Assess Your Current and Future Health Needs

Consider how your health needs might change in the coming year. Ask yourself:

• Are you satisfied with your current doctors and specialists?
• Do you need better prescription drug coverage?
• Would you benefit from additional services like dental, vision, hearing, transportation, or fitness benefits?
• Are you looking for more personalized support and care coordination?
• Do you have chronic conditions that require specialized care?
• Do you have or qualify for Medicaid?

3. Compare Your Options Thoroughly

Use Medicare's Plan Finder tool at Medicare.gov to explore available plans in your area. This official government resource allows you to:

• Compare monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs
• Check if your current doctors are in-network
• Review prescription drug coverage
• See star ratings for plan quality and performance

You can also explore your options here at Alignment Health Plan with our online Plan Finder tool or register to attend a seminar to learn more about your Medicare.

4. Consider What's Most Important to You

Differences in coverage and benefits vary by health plans. Consider what matters most for your situation.

Cost Considerations:

• Monthly premiums
• Annual deductibles
• Copays for doctor visits and specialists
• Out-of-pocket maximums
• Prescription drug costs

Coverage and Benefits:

• Network of doctors, specialists, and hospitals
• Prescription drug formulary
• Additional benefits like dental, vision, and hearing
• Wellness programs and preventive care
• Transportation services

Convenience and Support:

• Customer service availability
• Online tools and mobile apps
• Care coordination services
• Telehealth options

5. Get Expert Guidance

Contact Alignment Health Plan directly at 1-888-293-8272 (TTY: 711) to get personalized guidance on your Medicare options. Our knowledgeable team can help you:

• Understand specific benefits and coverage options available in your area
• Compare plan costs and determine potential savings
• Learn about additional services and support programs we offer
• Get answers to questions about provider networks and prescription coverage
• Receive assistance with the enrollment process

Speaking directly with health plan representatives allows you to get detailed, personalized information about how their plans work and whether they're a good fit for your specific needs. Our Medicare experts are trained to help you navigate your Medicare options and can walk you through benefit details to help you make an informed decision.

 

Can You Change Medicare Plans Mid-Year?

When Can I Change Medicare Plans?

Medicare-eligible beneficiaries have the opportunity to change their Medicare coverage during the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) from October 15 through December 7 each year. During this window, you have the flexibility to:

• Enroll in a Medicare plan
• Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan
• Change from a Medicare Advantage plan back to Original Medicare
• Move between different Medicare plans

Any changes you make during the Annual Enrollment Period will take effect on January 1 of the following year, giving you a fresh start with coverage that better fits your needs.

Additionally, those approaching age 65 have the flexibility to enroll in Medicare coverage at any time during the three months leading up to and after their 65th birthday.

Open Enrollment Period (OEP)

If you enrolled in a Medicare plan during Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), you get an additional opportunity to make changes during Open Enrollment Period (OEP), which runs from January 1 through March 31. During Medicare’s Open Enrollment Period, you can:

• Switch to a different Medicare Advantage plan
• Return to Original Medicare
• Add a standalone Part D prescription drug plan if needed

This extra window is particularly helpful if you discover your new plan isn't quite the right fit for you. Note that this period is for switching or changing existing coverage only new enrollment is not available during this time. Those who switch or change plans during Medicare’s Open Enrollment Period will begin coverage the first of the month after you request the change.

Planning for Your Health Care Needs

Your health care needs aren't static — they can change throughout the year and from year-to-year. That's why these designated enrollment periods are so valuable. They provide regular opportunities to step back, evaluate how well your current plan is serving you, and make adjustments if needed.

Whether you're looking for better prescription drug coverage, want access to different doctors, or need additional benefits like dental or vision care, understanding these enrollment windows helps ensure you're never stuck with coverage that doesn't work for you.

Important Deadlines to Remember

Mark these critical dates on your calendar:

• October 1: Health plans begin releasing their plan information for the following year
• October 15 - December 7: Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (every year)
• January 1: New coverage begins for changes made during Annual Enrollment
• January 1 - March 31: Medicare Open Enrollment Period

 

Can I Cancel My Medicare Coverage at Any Time?

In most cases, you can only voluntarily disenroll from your Medicare plan during designated enrollment periods. However, there are some exceptions:

• If you move outside your plan's service area
• If you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) due to specific life changes
• In cases of involuntary disenrollment due to changes in eligibility for special programs

When you enroll in a new Medicare plan during the Annual Enrollment Period, you'll automatically be disenrolled from your existing plan the day before your new coverage starts. This seamless transition ensures you don't experience gaps in coverage.

 

Tips to Consider During Medicare Enrollment

Start Early

Don't wait until the last minute. Begin reviewing your options as early as possible to give yourself plenty of time to research and compare plans.

Keep Good Records

If you're already enrolled in Medicare, document your current plan's benefits, costs, and any issues you've experienced. This information will help you make informed comparisons.

Ask Questions

If something isn't clear, ask for clarification. Whether you're speaking with a plan representative, broker, or Medicare directly, make sure you understand all aspects of your coverage options.

For Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Medicare Advantage, click here.

Consider Future Needs

Think beyond your current health status. Consider how your needs might change and choose a plan that can adapt to you.

 

Take Control of Your Medicare Coverage

Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is your opportunity to take charge of your health care and find coverage that truly supports your needs and lifestyle. If you're ready to explore better benefits, lower costs, or more comprehensive care coordination, AEP is your time to make those changes.

Ready to explore your Medicare options? Contact Alignment Health Plan at 1-888-293-8272 (TTY: 711) to speak with our knowledgeable team about Medicare Advantage plans designed with you in mind. We are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., 7 days a week (except Thanksgiving and Christmas) from October 1 through March 31 and Monday to Friday (except holidays) from April 1 through September 30.

You can also explore your options here at Alignment Health Plan with our online Plan Finder tool or register to attend a seminar to see which Medicare Advantage plans are available in your area.