Every year, Medicare Open Enrollment takes place from October 15 to December 7. This seven-week period is one of the most important times of the year for anyone enrolled inMedicare—or about to be. During this window, you can review, compare, and make changes to your Medicare health and prescription drug coverage for the upcoming year.

Why Is Open Enrollment Important?

Healthcare needs change from year to year. So do Medicare plans. Premiums, coverage, prescription drug costs, and provider networks can all shift. If you don’t review your plan, you could end up paying more—or lose access to doctors and prescriptions you rely on.

What You Can Do During Open Enrollment

Switch Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C) if your current plan no longer fits your needs.Join, drop, or change a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan to ensure your medications are covered affordably.Return to Original Medicare if you decide you no longer want Medicare Advantage.

What Happens If You Do Nothing?

If you don’t make changes, you’ll generally stay in your current plan. But that might not be the best choice. Plans often update their coverage and costs each year, meaning your expenses could increase in 2026 if you don’t review your options now.

Tips for Making the Most of Open Enrollment

Review Your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) – outlines what’s changing in your plan. Compare Plans in Your Area – use the official Medicare Plan Finder tool at Medicare.gov. Check Prescription Coverage – ensure your medications are covered affordably. Seek Help If Needed – free counseling is available through your local SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program).

Need Help?

In addition to Medicare.gov and SHIP resources, you can reach out for personal assistance: Jatinder Sharma, Guru Insurance Services Inc. 3230 S Buffalo Dr Suite 107, Las Vegas, NV 89117

The above content is provided by Guru Insurance Services.