Time Is Ticking — Why You Should Review Medicare Now
Your Annual Opportunity to Get It Right
1. What Is the Medicare Open Enrollment Period — and Why Does It Matter
Q. When is it?
The annual Open Enrollment Period (sometimes called the Annual Election Period) for Medicare runs October 15 through December 7 each year.
Any changes you make during this window take effect January 1 of the following year.
Q. What can you do during this window?
Switch from one Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan to another
Switch from Medicare Advantage back to Original Medicare (Parts A & B)
Join, drop, or switch a Medicare drug plan (Part D)
If you have Original Medicare + a Medigap (Supplement), reassess whether that combination still fits your needs.
(Note: enrolling in a new Medigap plan on a guaranteed-issue basis may have timing constraints.)
Q. Why is it urgent?
Because insurance companies, provider networks, and prescription drug lists (formularies) often change each year.
If you don’t review your coverage, you could find yourself in a plan that no longer fits your health needs, preferred doctors, or budget.
2. Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and Medicare Supplements (Medigap) — How They Differ
Here’s a quick Q&A to help demystify the choices:
Q. What is Original Medicare?
Original Medicare refers to Part A (hospital coverage) and Part B (medical/outpatient coverage).
It’s the foundation of your benefits. From there, you can choose optional drug coverage (Part D) and/or supplemental coverage (Medigap).
Q. What is a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C)?
A Medicare Advantage plan is a private-insurer plan that replaces Original Medicare (Parts A & B) and often bundles in Part D and additional benefits such as dental, vision, and hearing.
Key features:
You must have Parts A & B to enroll.
May have limited doctor/hospital networks (HMO or PPO).
Often low or $0 premiums above your Part B premium — but you’ll pay copays or coinsurance as you go.
You cannot have a Medigap plan and an Advantage plan at the same time.
Q. What is a Medicare Supplement (Medigap)?
A Medigap policy works with Original Medicare to help cover the “gaps” — deductibles, copays, and coinsurance.
Key features:
You can see any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare nationwide.
Typically higher monthly premium than Advantage but fewer out-of-pocket surprises.
Usually does not include drug coverage (you’d need a separate Part D plan).
Q. Which is “better”?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on your health, travel habits, and budget.
If you value flexibility and predictability, Medigap + Original Medicare may be best.
If you prefer bundled extras and a lower monthly premium, Medicare Advantage could fit better.
3. Top FAQs Specific to Open Enrollment
Q. If I’m happy with my current plan, do I need to do anything?
Yes. Even if your premium hasn’t changed, your provider network or prescription coverage might have. Review it each year to be safe.
Q. What happens if I miss this year’s Open Enrollment?
You may have to wait until the next applicable period or qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. Missing it could mean paying more or staying in a plan that doesn’t fit.
Q. When will new coverage begin?
Any changes you make from October 15–December 7 take effect January 1 of the following year.
Q. What about prescription coverage (Part D)?
Drug plans change formularies and pharmacy networks every year. Failing to review could make your medications more expensive next year.
Q. Can I switch from Medicare Advantage to a Medigap plan during AEP?
Yes, but enrolling in a new Medigap plan may not always be guaranteed. If you’re outside your initial eligibility window, you may be subject to underwriting.
Q. What if there’s a government shutdown or delay?
Even during government disruptions, your Medicare coverage and rights remain intact. Plans must still follow CMS rules and deadlines.
4. Why You Should Act Now — Not Wait
The window closes December 7 — after that, changes lock in for the year.
Insurers finalize provider networks and formularies before January 1.
Review your health status, medications, and preferred doctors early.
Don’t rush decisions at the last minute — comparing options now prevents stress later.
Even if you keep your plan, reviewing ensures it still meets your needs.
5. How Robert Jones and the CISNCLLC Team Can Help
At Consolidated Insurance Solutions (CISNCLLC), we specialize in guiding Medicare-eligible individuals through this annual review and choice process.
We can:
Walk you through the differences between Advantage and Supplement (Medigap) plans
Evaluate your current plan’s network, coverage, and cost changes
Show you what’s available in your ZIP code and help you compare side-by-side
Explain the fine print and remove confusing jargon
Help you make a confident, informed decision that fits your lifestyle, budget, and health needs
Our services are always free — no consultation fees, no pressure, just honest guidance.
6. Next Steps — Don’t Wait
Gather your current plan materials (Annual Notice of Change, Summary of Benefits, drug list).
Note any changes in your health, doctors, medications, or travel plans.
Schedule a no-cost review with Robert Jones at CISNCLLC.
Compare your current plan with alternatives.
Decide by December 7 — your changes will take effect January 1.
Bottom line:
You’ve earned your Medicare coverage — now make sure it still fits your life.
The window closes soon. At CISNCLLC, Robert Jones is ready to help you take that step with confidence.