Posted July 20, 2026

Medicare Open Enrollment runs from October 15 through December 7. Learn what documents, prescriptions, providers, and questions to gather before reviewing your 2027 coverage options.

Medicare Open Enrollment may still be a few months away, but preparing early can make the process much easier.

From October 15 through December 7, Medicare beneficiaries can review their current coverage and make certain changes for the upcoming year. Any changes made during this period generally take effect on January 1. Medicare.gov

Here are five steps you can take now to prepare for your 2027 Medicare coverage review.

1. Make a Current List of Your Prescriptions

Write down every prescription medication you currently take, including:

• Medication name
• Dosage
• How frequently you take it
• Preferred pharmacy
• Whether you use mail-order services

Medicare Advantage and Part D plans may have different formularies, pharmacy networks, copayments, deductibles, and coverage requirements. Having an accurate medication list will make it easier to compare your options.

2. Review Your Doctors and Healthcare Providers

Create a list of the doctors, specialists, hospitals, and medical facilities you prefer to use.

Provider networks can vary between plans and may change from year to year. Before choosing or renewing coverage, confirm whether your providers participate in the plan’s network for the upcoming year.

Do not rely solely on an old provider directory. It is wise to verify participation with both the insurance company and the provider’s office.

3. Watch for Your Annual Notice of Change

If you are enrolled in a Medicare plan, your insurance company should send you an Annual Notice of Change, commonly called an ANOC, each fall.

This notice explains changes to your plan’s coverage, costs, service area, and other important details for the upcoming year. Medicare advises beneficiaries to review this document and determine whether their current plan will continue to meet their needs. Medicare.gov 

Pay close attention to changes involving:

• Monthly premiums
• Medical deductibles
• Prescription drug deductibles
• Copayments and coinsurance
• Provider networks
• Prescription drug coverage
• Maximum out-of-pocket limits
• Additional benefits

Even if you are satisfied with your current plan, you should still review its changes.

4. Think About What Has Changed in Your Life

Your healthcare needs may be different from what they were last year. Before reviewing your Medicare options, consider whether you have:

• Started taking new medications
• Been diagnosed with a new condition
• Changed doctors or specialists
• Moved to a different address
• Experienced changes in your income
• Started receiving Medicaid or Extra Help
• Become interested in dental, vision, hearing, transportation, fitness, or other benefits

Your current coverage may still be appropriate, but it is important to make that determination based on your present needs.

5. Schedule Your Medicare Review Early

Waiting until the final days of Open Enrollment can create unnecessary pressure. Gathering your information and scheduling a review early gives you more time to understand your choices and ask questions.

During Medicare Open Enrollment, eligible individuals may be able to join, drop, or switch Medicare Advantage or prescription drug plans. They may also be able to move between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage, subject to Medicare’s rules. Medicare.gov

You are not required to change plans every year. The purpose of a review is to determine whether your current coverage will continue to meet your healthcare and financial needs.

Let Senior Benefits Advisors Help You Prepare

Medicare does not have to feel overwhelming. A licensed Benefits Advisor can help you review available plan options, provider participation, prescription coverage, costs, and additional benefits.

Senior Benefits Advisors represents Medicare Advantage and prescription drug plans offered by multiple insurance carriers. Plan availability, benefits, premiums, provider networks, and eligibility requirements vary by plan and service area.

To schedule a Medicare coverage review, contact us:

Senior Benefits Advisors
5900 Sugarloaf Parkway, Suite 126
Lawrenceville, GA 30043
Phone: (470) 359-2970
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.senior-benefits-advisors.com