Life changes may mean changing your Medicare plan

Medicare plan not meeting your needs anymore? You can switch to another plan. Over time, you may need different things from your healthcare plan, whether that's more coverage or a lower price.

Common reasons for switching Medicare plans

Cost

Rising premiums or deductibles can make even the best plan less affordable. When researching plans, think about monthly premiums, out-of-pocket maximums, deductibles, coinsurance and copays.

Doctor is no longer in-network

If your doctor stops accepting Medicare or leaves the network, you'll need to find a new one.

Coverage needs have changed

Your medical needs change over time. You might require services not covered under your current plan, such as prescription drugs or hearing aids.

Income or health changes affect eligibility

Changes in income or health may make you eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid (dual-eligible).

Certain conditions, like end-stage renal disease, can disqualify you from Medicare Advantage plans.

You've moved

Notify your plan if you move. You'll have the opportunity to make changes to your coverage, also called a Special Enrollment Period.

Switch Medicare plans during 3 key enrollment periods

Once you've enrolled, there are 3 times when you can switch your Medicare plan, depending on your current coverage.

Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)

• Oct. 15 – Dec. 7
• You can add, drop or change your Medicare Advantage (Part C) or prescription drug (Part D) plan.

Open Enrollment Period (OEP)

• Jan. 1 – March 31
• You can leave your Medicare Advantage (MA) plan to revert to Original Medicare or change your Medicare Advantage plan.
• You can also enroll in a standalone Part D plan if you leave a MA plan with prescription coverage.
• You can't switch from Original Medicare to MA during OEP.

Special Enrollment Period (SEP)

• You can switch during SEP if you have a qualifying life event, such as moving out of your plan's service area, leaving employment or losing drug coverage through no fault of your own.

Compare your options: Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage plans

Medicare (Original Medicare)

• Part A covers hospitalizations and skilled nursing care.
• Part B covers routine care, such as doctor visits and preventive care.

Medicare Advantage (Part C)

• Medicare Advantage includes Part A and B benefits, often with no or low monthly premiums.
• It usually includes prescription drug benefits (Part D).
• Out-of-pocket expenses are limited.
• Extra benefits may be offered, like dental, vision, hearing and wellness programs.