Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is coming to a close—and fast. December 1st will be here before you know it. If you're thinking about switching plans, adjusting your coverage, or finally taking a closer look at your options, now is the time to act.
Choosing a Medicare plan can feel overwhelming, but having a simple checklist can make the process much easier. As you review your options, here are the five essential things you should have on your Medicare checklist before time runs out.
Costs: Know What You’ll Pay Before You Enroll
Your budget matters. And your Medicare choice can have a big impact on how much you’ll spend each month—and throughout the year.
When comparing plans, take time to review:
- Monthly premiums
- Deductibles
- Copays and coinsurance for doctor visits, hospital stays, and specialist care
- Maximum out-of-pocket limits
Original Medicare doesn’t cap your yearly out-of-pocket spending unless you purchase additional coverage. Medicare Advantage plans, however, include an annual out-of-pocket limit, which can help protect you from unexpected medical costs.
If managing costs is a priority, this should be one of the first items on your checklist.
Coverage: Does It Fit Your Health Needs?
Medicare isn’t one-size-fits-all. Your coverage should match the care you actually need.
As you weigh your options, ask yourself:
- Do I need dental, vision, or hearing coverage?
- Do I need additional benefits like transportation, over-the-counter allowances, or fitness programs?
- Does my current plan meet all my needs—or am I paying for benefits I don’t use?
Many Medicare Advantage plans offer expanded benefits that Original Medicare does not include. If you need more comprehensive coverage, it may be time to explore your Medicare Advantage choices.
Prescription Drugs: Make Sure Your Medications Are Covered
Prescription costs can add up quickly—so don’t skip this step.
If you stay with Original Medicare, you’ll need to enroll in a separate Part D drug plan for medication coverage. Medicare Advantage plans typically include drug coverage, but it’s still important to review the plan’s formulary to ensure your medications are covered at a reasonable cost.
Check for:
- Tier levels
- Preferred pharmacies
- Restrictions such as prior authorization or quantity limits
A few minutes of review now can save you money all year long.
Doctors & Hospitals: Can You Keep Your Preferred Providers?
Your doctors matter. So does your access to care.
- With Original Medicare, you can see any doctor who accepts Medicare.
- With Medicare Advantage, you’ll need to work within your plan’s provider network.
Even if you don’t mind switching, it’s important to check whether your local hospitals and specialists participate in the plan you’re considering. The right network can also help keep your costs lower.
If staying with your current doctor is a priority, make sure to confirm they’re in your plan’s network before December 1st.
Quality of Care: Are You Getting the Care You Deserve?
Take a moment to reflect on your current experience. Are you satisfied with the care you’re receiving—from your plan and your provider?
Every year, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) evaluates health plans using performance measures called HEDIS scores, which look at patient outcomes, preventive care, chronic condition management, and patient satisfaction. These scores can guide you toward higher-quality plan options.
Just as important is your experience with your primary care provider. You deserve care that is consistent, compassionate, and focused on keeping you healthy—not just treating illness when it happens.
If you’re not fully happy with your current care, AEP is the time to make a change.
Don’t Wait—Review Your Options Now
Time is running out, and the last few weeks of the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period will go by quickly. The best way to ensure you choose the coverage that fits your health and your budget is to contact your broker and review all your available options before December 1st.
A quick conversation can help you understand your benefits, compare plans, and avoid missing out on coverage that may better support your needs. Don’t wait until the deadline sneaks up on you—reach out to your broker today so you can step into the new year confident, prepared, and fully covered.
