Your current Medicare plan may still be a good fit. But before you let it renew, there are five things worth checking.
If you're happy with your Medicare coverage, you might assume there's no reason to review it this fall.
That's understandable. But here's something many people don't realize: Even if you haven't changed anything about your coverage, your plan may be changing for 2027.
Premiums, prescription drug costs, provider networks, and other benefits can change from year to year.
And sometimes, the difference between a plan that worked well last year and one that works well next year comes down to a few details that are easy to overlook.
Here are five common mistakes worth avoiding during Medicare Open Enrollment.
1. Assuming Your Current Plan Will Stay the Same
Just because your Medicare plan worked well in 2026 doesn't mean everything will remain the same in 2027.
Insurance companies can make annual changes to premiums, deductibles, copayments, benefits, and other coverage details.
What to check:
Look for your plan's Annual Notice of Change, usually mailed in September. This document explains what's changing for the coming year.
Pay particular attention to increases in costs or changes to benefits you regularly use.
Why it matters: You could end up paying more for the same services without realizing it until January.
2. Looking Only at the Monthly Premium
A low monthly premium can certainly be attractive. But it doesn't necessarily mean a plan will cost you less overall.
Consider two plans. One has a lower premium but higher copayments for specialist visits. The other costs a little more each month but has lower out-of-pocket expenses for the services you use most.
Depending on your health needs, the second plan could actually be more affordable.
What to check:
Compare the total potential costs, including:
Monthly premiums
Annual deductibles
Doctor and specialist copayments
Hospital costs
Prescription drug expenses
Annual out-of-pocket limits, where applicable
Why it matters: The least expensive plan each month isn't always the least expensive plan over the course of a year.
3. Forgetting to Review Prescription Drug Coverage
This is one of the most important things to check, especially if you take medications regularly.
Medicare prescription drug plans can change which medications they cover, how much you pay for them, and which pharmacies offer preferred pricing.
Even if your prescriptions haven't changed, your costs might.
What to check:
Make a list of your current medications, including dosages, and compare how they're covered under your existing plan and other available options.
Also check whether your preferred pharmacy remains in the plan's network and whether another pharmacy might offer lower costs.
Why it matters: A plan that was affordable for your prescriptions this year might not be your best option in 2027.
4. Assuming Your Doctors and Hospitals Are Still in Network
If you're enrolled in Medicare Advantage, your plan's provider network can affect where you receive care and how much you pay.
Doctors, specialists, and hospitals may participate in different networks from one year to the next.
And even when a provider accepts Medicare, that doesn't necessarily mean they're in your particular Medicare Advantage plan's network.
What to check:
Confirm that your preferred doctors, specialists, hospitals, and other important providers will participate in the plan for 2027.
Don't rely solely on last year's information. Verify with the plan and, when possible, the provider's office.
Why it matters: Discovering that a trusted doctor is no longer in your network after January 1 could mean higher costs or having to find a new provider.
5. Waiting Until the Last Minute to Compare Plans
Medicare's Annual Open Enrollment Period runs from October 15 through December 7, 2026, for coverage beginning January 1, 2027.
That gives you a limited window to review your coverage and make changes.
Waiting until the final days can make an already confusing process feel rushed.
And if you miss the deadline, your options for making changes may be limited until another enrollment period, unless you qualify for a special exception.
What to check:
Start by gathering your current plan information, medication list, preferred providers, and Annual Notice of Change.
Then compare your existing coverage with the options available in your area.
Why it matters: A little preparation now can help you make a more informed decision about your coverage for the entire year ahead.
The Biggest Mistake? Assuming There's Nothing to Review.
You don't necessarily need to change your Medicare plan every year. In fact, after reviewing your options, you may discover that your current coverage is still the best fit.
But as Robert often reminds clients:
“There's a difference between keeping your plan because you've reviewed it and keeping it simply because you haven't looked.”
— Robert A. Jones
That's why reviewing your coverage matters. The goal isn't necessarily to change plans. It's to make sure the plan you keep still makes sense for your health, your doctors, your prescriptions, and your budget.
Let's Make Sure Your Medicare Coverage Still Fits Your Life
At Consolidated Insurance Solutions, I believe choosing insurance should start with a conversation, not a sales pitch.
I'll take the time to understand your needs, review your current coverage, explain your options, and help you make an informed decision about what works for your health and your budget.
And there's no additional cost to you for my guidance.
Robert A. Jones
Independent Insurance Agent
Consolidated Insurance Solutions
📞 919-649-3456
🌐 cisncllc.com
Medicare Open Enrollment: October 15 – December 7, 2026
Ready to review your Medicare coverage? Let's talk.
Personal guidance. Thoughtful recommendations. No cost for assistance.
Consolidated Insurance Solutions is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently, we represent multiple organizations that offer Medicare plans. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for information on all available options.