Medicare Open Enrollment for 2025 is right around the corner—running from October 15 to December 7, 2025—and it’s your annual opportunity to review, compare, and change your Medicare coverage. Whether you’re happy with your current plan or considering a switch, it’s important to take proactive steps in the weeks and months leading up to enrollment to ensure you have the coverage you need at the best cost.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you prepare.
1. Mark Your Calendar and Know the Key Dates
Open Enrollment only happens once a year, and any changes you make will take effect on January 1, 2026. Missing the deadline could lock you into your current plan for another year unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. Be sure to set reminders—both digital and on paper—to give yourself enough time to compare your options and avoid last-minute decisions.
2. Review Your Current Coverage
Before you even look at new options, take a close look at what you currently have:
Monthly premium – Is it still affordable within your budget?
Deductibles and copayments – Have your out-of-pocket costs increased this year?
Provider network – Are your preferred doctors and hospitals still covered?
Prescription drug coverage – Does your plan still cover your medications at a reasonable cost?
If you’ve been satisfied with your plan but have experienced higher costs or limited access to care, these might be signs it’s time to explore alternatives.
3. Review the Annual Notice of Change (ANOC)
Every September, your Medicare Advantage or Part D drug plan will send you an Annual Notice of Change (ANOC). This document outlines changes to your plan’s costs, benefits, and network for the coming year. Don’t ignore it—these updates could significantly affect your coverage and expenses in 2026. If you see changes that may impact you negatively, start comparing new plans immediately.
4. Check Your Prescription Drug Needs
Prescription coverage can change year to year. Drug formularies (lists of covered medications) may add or remove drugs, or change their cost tiers. Before Open Enrollment begins, make a list of all the medications you take and compare how they’re covered under your current plan and any alternatives. Even if your drug list hasn’t changed, plan pricing and preferred pharmacies can.
5. Use the Official Medicare Plan Finder
The Medicare.gov Plan Finder is one of the most reliable tools for comparing Medicare Advantage and Part D plans. You can enter your medications, preferred pharmacies, and doctors to see a cost breakdown for each plan in your area. This makes it easier to compare total yearly costs—not just monthly premiums.
6. Consider Your Healthcare Needs for 2026
Think ahead to the care you might need next year. Have you been diagnosed with a new health condition? Are you planning any surgeries or treatments? Do you want extra benefits like dental, vision, or hearing coverage? Your future needs should guide your choice just as much as your current ones.
7. Seek Guidance from Reliable Sources
Choosing the right Medicare plan can be overwhelming, especially with so many options and changes each year. Consider talking to:
State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs) – Free, unbiased counseling.
NCRO resources and webinars – Our Medicare information sessions offer trusted guidance.
Licensed Medicare advisors – Professionals who can help you navigate complex choices.
8. Watch for NCRO’s Upcoming Medicare Webinar
To help you prepare, NCRO will host a Medicare 101 and 2026 Changes Webinar on Thursday, September 11, 2025, at 9:30 AM. This free session will explain how to interpret plan changes, avoid costly mistakes, and choose the right coverage. Mark your calendar and register early to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Medicare Open Enrollment is more than just a chance to switch plans—it’s your annual opportunity to ensure your health coverage matches your needs and budget. By reviewing your current coverage, checking for upcoming changes, and comparing options, you can make confident choices for the year ahead.
NCRO is here to support you every step of the way. Start your preparation now, stay informed, and take advantage of the valuable resources available to you!.
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...with Edits and Modifications
At NCRO, we are proud to uphold the highest standards of accuracy and quality in all our content. This article was meticulously crafted by advanced AI technology, rigorously reviewed, and approved as modified by our dedicated NCRO IC Committee before being shared in this email and on our website.