If you're happy with your Medicare coverage, that's a good thing. And I certainly wouldn't suggest changing plans just for the sake of making a change.
But here's something I encourage my clients to do every year: take a little time to make sure the coverage that's working for you today will still work for you next year.
Medicare plans can change from one year to the next. Sometimes those changes are small. Other times, they can make a real difference in what you pay or which doctors and prescriptions are covered.
For example, a medication you've been taking for years might move to a different cost-sharing tier. A doctor you've been seeing could leave your plan's network. Or your out-of-pocket costs might change.
And those aren't things you necessarily want to discover when you need care.
The good news? Reviewing your coverage doesn't mean you have to change anything.
Sometimes, after looking everything over, the best advice I can give someone is to stay right where they are.
That's a perfectly good outcome.
A Few Things Worth Checking for 2027
As you look ahead to next year, here are a few questions I'd encourage you to consider:
Your doctors: Are your preferred doctors and hospitals still in your plan's network, if your plan uses one?
Your prescriptions: Are your medications still covered, and have your costs changed?
Your premiums: Has your monthly premium increased or decreased?
Your out-of-pocket expenses: Have your deductibles, copays, or other costs changed?
Your benefits: Are there changes to benefits you regularly use?
Your personal circumstances: Has anything changed with your health, finances, or healthcare needs?
Your plan's Annual Notice of Change is a good place to start. It outlines what's changing for the coming year.
Finding the Right Fit Takes More Than Comparing Prices
One thing I've learned over the years is that there's no single Medicare plan that's right for everyone.
What works well for your neighbor might not be the best choice for you.
I like to understand the whole picture before making recommendations. That means looking at your doctors, prescriptions, healthcare needs, and what you're comfortable spending—not just the monthly premium.
As an independent insurance agent, I can compare plans from multiple insurance companies. But comparing plans is only part of the process. Understanding the person I'm helping is just as important.
I spend a lot of time researching options because I know these decisions matter.
And sometimes, after we've looked at everything, my recommendation is to stay with the coverage you already have.
My goal isn't to change your insurance. It's to help you feel confident that your coverage makes sense for your situation.
You Don't Have to Figure It All Out Yourself
Medicare can be confusing, even for people who've been enrolled for years.
That's part of why I enjoy what I do.
I believe people deserve to understand their options without feeling pressured to make a change.
Whether you're considering a different plan or simply want reassurance that your current coverage is still a good fit, I'm happy to help you work through the details.
There's no charge for my assistance.
And if we review everything and determine that what you already have is still the right fit, that's fine with me.
There's Still Time to Review Your Coverage
Medicare's Annual Open Enrollment Period runs from October 15 through December 7, 2026, for coverage beginning January 1, 2027.
There's no need to rush into a decision, but I do encourage you not to wait until the last minute.
A thoughtful review takes time, particularly when we're comparing prescription coverage, provider networks, and potential out-of-pocket expenses.
If you'd like another set of eyes on your coverage, give me a call. I'm happy to help.
Robert A. Jones
Independent Insurance Agent
Consolidated Insurance Solutions
919-649-3456
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.