Medicare Enrollment: What You Need to Know
Open enrollment to join or change your Medicare plan began Oct. 15 and ends Dec. 17. Now is the time to see whether you would be better off switching prescription plans or dropping or changing your Medicare Advantage plan.
All changes take effect in January 2027.
Medicare plans can change their premiums, deductibles, prescription drug coverage, provider networks, and other benefits from year to year. Therefore, it is important to review your current plan, noted Rafael Espinoza, Manager of Montgomery County’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), which is part of JSSA.
“Even if you are happy with what you have, it is always a good idea to check it out, because you may be able to find a better plan, or save money,” he said.
“Medicare Open Enrollment is an important opportunity for older adults and people with disabilities to review their health and prescription drug coverage for the coming year,” said David Engel, chair of the Communications Committee for Montgomery County’s Commission on Aging.
“We encourage every Medicare beneficiary to compare available options and seek free, unbiased guidance from Montgomery County’s SHIP counselors. Financial assistance may also be available to help pay Medicare premiums and prescription drug costs. No one should miss an opportunity to explore benefits for which they may qualify,” he said.
SHIP offers free counseling so residents can understand and compare the various plans offered in Maryland. Residents will have one fewer choice for Part D, prescription drugs. HealthSpring Extra Rx (PDP) will not be offered in 2027. However, residents still have nine plan choices.
Choosing the best plan can be confusing. Highly trained SHIP staff and volunteers can guide county residents through the process and often save them money.
To contact SHIP, call 301-255-4250, email SHIP@JSSA.org, or visit SHIP’s website at medicareabcd.org.
