Every fall, millions of people with Medicare get a chance to review their coverage and make changes for the year ahead. In 2026, the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period runs from October 15 to December 7. The policy (or policies) you choose will start on January 1, 2027.

The good news is you do not have to wait until October 15 to get ready. The weeks before it opens are the perfect time to gather information so that you can make a calm, clear decision.

What can you change during open enrollment?

During this window you can switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan, or switch back. You can move from one Medicare Advantage plan to another. You can also join, change, or drop a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan.

Your pre-enrollment checklist

• Find your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC). Your current plan is required to send this by the end of September. It explains what is changing next year, including premiums, benefits, and drug coverage.
• Make a list of every prescription you take, with dose and pharmacy. Drug lists and costs can change from year to year.
• Write down your doctors, specialists, and the hospital you prefer. Then check whether each is in your plan’s network for 2027.
• Think about how you used your coverage this year. Did you have surprise bills? Did you skip care because of cost?
• Note any changes in your health, travel plans, or budget that might matter for next year.
• Have your Medicare card handy.

Do not just renew

It can be tempting to let your plan renew on its own. But plans can change what they cover, which drugs are on their list, and which providers they work with. A few minutes of review now can prevent a frustrating surprise in January.

You do not have to do this alone

Our licensed agents in Marshfield help people compare their options every year, and a plan review with us costs you nothing. Bring your list, and we will walk through it together at your pace.

Ready to talk? Contact Kassi Pagel, Benefits Producer, at 715-387-6010 or kassi.pagel@marshfieldinsurance.net to set up a plan review. Learn more at www.MarshfieldInsurance.agency.