AARP urges seniors to review Medicare plans during open enrollment

SHERIDAN — The American Association of Retired Persons urges seniors to review their Medicare plan options during this year’s Medicare open enrollment period — October 15 through December 7 — to determine the coverage that best meets their needs for 2026 and make sure that their doctors, hospitals, and prescription drugs are covered by their plan.

“Medicare open enrollment is the one time each year when older Americans can review their coverage and make sure it meets their health and financial needs,” AARP Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy and Engagement Officer Nancy LeaMond said. “With major changes coming to Medicare drug and health plan benefits in 2026, it’s more important than ever for seniors to compare their options and choose the plan that will best help them afford the care they need.”

Changes Medicare recipients can make during open enrollment include the following: 

• Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan, or vice versa.

• Switch from one Medicare Advantage plan to another.

• Switch from one Medicare Part D prescription drug plan to another.

• Join, drop or switch to a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan.

The first Medicare-negotiated drug prices will go into effect in 2026 for Eliquis, Jardiance, Xarelto, Januvia, Farxiga, Entresto, Enbrel, Imbruvica, Stelara, and NovoLog/Fiasp.

The savings are expected to lower enrollees’ out-of-pocket spending by an estimated $1.5 billion in 2026, according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

The cap on annual out-of-pocket expenses for Part D drugs will increase to $2,100 in 2026.

Open enrollment is also prime time for fraud. 

Scammers may pose as Medicare representatives or offer “free” medical equipment in exchange for a person’s Medicare number. Medicare will never call, email or text out of the blue to ask for personal information or payment.

Free help is available at the Medicare help line, 1-800-633-4227.