Frequently Asked Questions During Annual Enrollment
Annual Enrollment is in full swing, and you may have a few questions about it. These are the top questions:
Do I need to review my Medicare Supplement plan during AEP?
No. AEP is specifically for switching Medicare Advantage or Part D prescription drug plans, not Medigap policies. You can at this time enroll in a Medicare Advantage Plan and drop your Medicare Supplement and Part D plans with an effective date of January 1.
Do I need to review my Medicare Advantage Plan during Annual Enrollment?
If you are happy with your current Medicare Advantage Plan, it will roll over into next year. However, you should review your plan’s Annual Notice of Change, which will outline the changes in benefits from the current year to the next, starting on January 1. If you cannot find your Annual Notice of Change or don’t understand the changes, call your agent for an explanation or Mike Fisher, a licensed insurance agent, at (610) 420-6064.
I don’t know my agent; how can I find out about changes to my plan and to change?
This happens often. Any agent who is appointed by a carrier(s) can help you understand what changes will take place in 2026. You may use any agent to enroll in a Medicare Advantage Plan that they represent. Many agents will represent multiple carriers, giving you a choice of plans in your area.
Will changing plans affect which doctors I can see or my medication coverage?
It might. That’s why it’s important to check the details for any plan you’re considering switching to. A good agent will help you check the plan’s provider network as well as the plan’s formulary before enrolling you.
You can easily compare plan information online, like:
- Which doctors are in the new plan’s network.
- Prescription costs and restrictions like step therapy or quantity limits.
Can I change my Medicare plan after the Annual Enrollment Period?
Yes, during Open Enrollment, which is from January 1 to March 31, you can change from one Medicare Advantage Plan to another, regardless of carrier. Additionally, changes to Prescription Drug and Medicare Advantage Plans may be possible during the year if specific life events occur. Examples include relocating outside of the plan’s coverage area or losing insurance. These situations qualify for Special Enrollment Periods, although the time frames differ depending on the event. A third option is if you wish to enroll in a 5-Star Medicare Advantage Plan, you may do so any time during the year without a SEP.
Which Medicare insurance plans are right for me?
Selecting a plan depends mainly on the provider network and prescription formulary. To find the best plan to fit your situation, consider these factors:
- Doctor choices (Provider Network)
- Health care needs (Plan’s Benefits)
- Medications (Formulary)
- Budget (Plan’s Deductibles and Copayments)
For more information, call Mike Fisher, a licensed insurance agent, at (610) 420-6064.
