Medicare Open Enrollment 2025: Essential Updates & Action Steps

Medicare Open Enrollment 2025: What You Need to Know

Senior citizens reviewing Medicare Open Enrollment 2025 plans and paperwork, highlighting key dates from October 15 to December 7.

The 2025 Medicare Open Enrollment Period (OEP) is underway, running from October 15 to December 7, 2025. This is the primary window for Medicare beneficiaries to review and adjust their health and drug coverage for the upcoming year. Changes made during this period will take effect on January 1, 2026.

📈 Key Changes for 2026

1. Premium Adjustments

Part B Premiums: The standard monthly premium for Medicare Part B is projected to increase to $206.50, up from $185 in 2025. Source

Part D Premiums: The average stand-alone Part D plan total premium is expected to decrease from $38.31 in 2025 to $34.50 in 2026, while the average Part D total premium for Medicare Advantage plans with prescription drug coverage is projected to decrease from $13.32 in 2025 to $11.50 in 2026. Source

2. Plan Availability

Several major insurers, including Aetna CVS Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Anthem, are scaling back their Medicare Advantage offerings for 2026. This trend is attributed to financial pressures stemming from decreased government reimbursements and increased healthcare costs. Source

3. New Alzheimer's Blood Test Coverage

Medicare will begin covering a newly approved blood test for Alzheimer's disease, developed by Roche in collaboration with Eli Lilly. This test, which measures the protein p-tau181, aids in early Alzheimer's diagnosis and is designed for primary care use. Source

📝 What You Can Do During Open Enrollment

Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan, or vice versa.
Join, drop, or switch Medicare Prescription Drug Plans (Part D).
Switch between Medicare Advantage Plans.

It's essential to review your current coverage, especially if your health needs or financial situation have changed. Failing to update your coverage could lead to higher costs or unmet health needs. Source

🛠️ Tools & Resources

Medicare.gov Plan Finder – Compare available plans in your area.
State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs) – Get personalized, free assistance from trained counselors.
"Medicare & You 2026" Handbook – Review the official guide for detailed information on plan options and changes.

⚠️ Important Reminders

Enrollment Deadlines: All changes must be made by December 7, 2025 to take effect on January 1, 2026.
Late Enrollment Penalties: Delaying enrollment in Medicare Part B or D without qualifying coverage could result in permanent penalties.
Plan Changes: Always review your plan's Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) to understand any modifications to your coverage.

🔍 Summary

The 2025 Medicare Open Enrollment Period is a critical time for beneficiaries to assess and adjust their healthcare coverage. With projected premium increases, changes in plan availability, and new coverage options, it's essential to stay informed and make decisions that align with your healthcare needs and financial situation.

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By staying informed about these changes and utilizing available resources, beneficiaries can make the best choices for their healthcare coverage in 2026.