In 2023, Medicare open enrollment started on October 15th and ended on December 7th. So, if you’re reading this blog at the time of posting and haven’t made the changes you wanted to to your Medicare plan, you’re, unfortunately, past the deadline.
So, what does that mean? At Senior Insurance Solutions, I’m dedicated to helping those currently enrolled or interested in Medicare navigate the system’s complexities. Let’s discuss what you need to know about missing Medicare open enrollment and how Senior Insurance Solutions can still help you.
What Is Open Enrollment?
Open enrollment isn’t for those without Medicare looking to sign up for a plan. Rather, it’s a time when members could choose a Part D prescription drug plan or a Medicare Advantage Plan for the coming year. If you missed the annual open enrollment period, you’ll automatically be reenrolled into your current plan as long as it’s still available where you live.
When it comes to Medicare plans, costs and coverage can change annually. Therefore, your current plan may not always be your best option. Fortunately, even after enrollment ends, you may still qualify to adjust your plan depending on your circumstances.
Switching Your Medicare Advantage Plan After Open Enrollment
If you missed open enrollment but want to switch your Medicare Advantage plan or go back to your original Medicare, there are several opportunities you can take advantage of.
January 1-March 31 Changes
This time is the Medicare Advantage open enrollment period. If you already have a Medicare Advantage plan, you can switch to another one or leave it for the original Medicare. You can also join a Part D plan during these dates. However, if you don’t already have a Medicare Advantage plan, you can’t sign up for one.
Additional Circumstances
Other circumstances in which you can change your plan outside of the enrollment period include:
- You’ve moved outside of your current plan’s service area
- You have a five-star plan in your area
- You qualify for a special enrollment period
Switching Your Part D Plan After Open Enrollment
If you find another Part D plan that offers better coverage or you get prescribed a new drug that your current Part D plan doesn’t cover, you may be able to switch after open enrollment if:
- You move out of your plan’s service area
- You receive financial assistance from the Extra Help program
- You find a Part D plan with a five-star quality rating
- You qualify for a special enrollment period
If you don’t have a Part D or Medicare Advantage plan, you can sign up for one outside of the enrollment period:
- Three months before you turn 65 until three months after your birthday month
- Within two months of losing insurance from your employer or union
- Within two months of losing drug coverage considered at least as good as Part D
Miss Medicare Open Enrollment? Senior Insurance Solutions Can Help
Navigating the world of Medicare and open enrollment can be complicated, but you don’t have to figure it out by yourself. At Senior Insurance Solutions, I help Medicare-eligible individuals make educated, financially smart decisions about health insurance. Whether you need help determining eligibility or want to explore Medicare as secondary insurance, I’m here to assist you every step of the way.
If you have questions about open enrollment and what your options are now that it has ended, contact me today. I look forward to working with you!
