Medicare open enrollment begins this week

Medicare Open Enrollment begins this week and runs from October 15 through December 7, 2026. During this period, Medicare beneficiaries can review their current coverage and make changes that will take effect on January 1, 2027.

We recommend reviewing your plan annually, even if you have been satisfied with it. Premiums, deductibles, prescription drug coverage, provider networks, and other benefits can change each year.

This is your opportunity to:

• Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan or vice versa.
• Change Medicare Advantage plans
• Change or enroll in Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage.

Learn more and research plans at Medicare.gov.

Taking the time to review your coverage now can help you avoid unexpected costs and ensure your plan continues to meet your healthcare needs.

Key Things to Consider Before You Enroll

1. Costs

Don’t focus solely on the monthly premium. Consider the total potential cost of your healthcare coverage, including premiums, deductibles, copays, coinsurance, and prescription drug expenses.

2. Prescription Drug Coverage

Do not assume that because your medications were covered in 2026, they will be covered the same way in 2027.

Review your current medications and check:

• Whether each medication is still on your plan’s formulary
• Whether a medication has moved to a different pricing tier
• Your copays and coinsurance
• Whether your preferred pharmacy is still in network
• Whether another plan could provide your prescriptions at a lower overall cost

Beginning in 2027, negotiated Medicare prices will also apply to additional selected prescription drugs. These changes could affect your costs.

3. Doctors, Hospitals and Other Providers

If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, confirm that your doctors, specialists, hospitals, and other healthcare providers will remain in your plan’s network in 2027.

If you are thinking about switching Medicare Advantage plans, carefully look beyond the premium and extra benefits. Consider the size of the provider network, referral requirements, prior authorization rules, and potential out-of-pocket costs if your healthcare needs increase.

4. Quality Ratings

Medicare uses a five-star rating system to help consumers compare Medicare Advantage and Part D plans.

The ratings are based on factors such as quality of care, customer service, and member experience.

5. Extra Benefits

Many Medicare Advantage plans offer benefits beyond what is covered by Original Medicare, which may include:

• Dental and vision care
• Hearing benefits
• Fitness and wellness programs
• Transportation or other supplemental benefits

These benefits can be valuable, but they shouldn’t be the only reason you choose a plan. Make sure the plan also works for your doctors, medications, healthcare needs, and budget. Be aware of the trade-offs. Our 2025 blog outlines some of these considerations.

Do Not Automatically Renew Without Reviewing

Your current Medicare plan may still be the right choice for 2027, but don’t assume nothing has changed.

If you need help comparing Medicare plans, Medicare’s Plan Finder is a helpful resource. Many qualified Medicare advisors in Georgia can help, too.

At Hurley Elder Care Law, we know healthcare coverage is only one part of future planning. Medicare Open Enrollment can also serve as a helpful annual reminder to review your broader long-term care and estate planning needs.

This is a good time to:

• Review your long-term care plan.
• Update your estate planning documents.
• Make sure your powers of attorney and advance healthcare directive still reflect your wishes.
• Consider how future care needs could affect you and your family.

Call Hurley Elder Care Law at 404-843-0121 with your elder law questions or to schedule an appointment with our experienced attorneys at our Atlanta, Duluth, Newnan, or Woodstock office. Virtual appointments are also available for your convenience.