Medicare Open Enrollment: 5 Questions to Ask Before Choosing Coverage

Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period runs from October 15 through December 7. During this period, beneficiaries can review their coverage and make changes for the following year.

For Pope County residents affected by Blue Cross Medicare Advantage changes, and for anyone considering a different plan, this is an important opportunity to compare options before 2027 coverage begins.

Before choosing a plan, ask five questions.

1. What could I pay if I need significant medical care?

Look beyond the monthly premium. Compare deductibles, specialist copayments, hospital cost-sharing, and the annual out-of-pocket maximum for covered services.

2. Can I continue seeing my doctors and using my preferred hospital?

Confirm that each provider participates in the exact plan you are considering for 2027. A provider’s participation in one plan does not necessarily establish participation in another plan from the same insurer.

3. Which services require prior authorization?

Medicare Advantage plans commonly require advance approval for certain services. Ask how your plan handles authorization requests, denials, and appeals.

4. Have I compared Original Medicare with a Medicare Supplement?

Original Medicare combined with a Supplement and separate prescription drug coverage is an alternative to Medicare Advantage. A Supplement may reduce out-of-pocket costs, depending on the policy, and generally allows beneficiaries to use any provider nationwide who accepts Medicare.

Compare the total monthly premiums and the coverage you would receive. Also confirm whether you can obtain the Supplement you want and whether medical underwriting applies.

5. What happens if I do nothing?

If your current plan is ending, do not assume your coverage will automatically continue in the way you expect. Review your insurer’s notices and confirm what coverage will be in place on January 1.

If you are already enrolled in Medicare Advantage and have second thoughts after the new year begins, a separate Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period runs from January 1 through March 31. During that period, eligible enrollees can make one change: switch to another Medicare Advantage plan or return to Original Medicare and join a separate Part D drug plan.

However, the ability to leave Medicare Advantage does not automatically guarantee access to every Medicare Supplement. Verify your eligibility before making a change.

Make your decision based on the full picture. Patients should compare the full financial and administrative consequences of their coverage, not just the advertised premium.

For help reviewing options locally, contact Lowry Insurance at 320-283-6175 or Eagle Insurance at 320-634-5153.

The True Cost of Medicare Coverage: Look Beyond the Monthly Premium