Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment: What Our Current Members Need to Know

If you enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan during Annual Enrollment (AEP), you may be hearing about something called Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment and wondering if it applies to you.

Here’s a simple breakdown of what this period is, who it’s for, and when it makes sense to take action.

What Is Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment?

Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment (MA OEP) runs from January 1 through March 31 each year. This period is only for people who are already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan. If that’s you, Medicare allows you a one-time opportunity to make a change if your new plan isn’t working the way you expected.

What Changes Can You Make?

During Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment, you can:

• Switch from one Medicare Advantage plan to another
• Drop your Medicare Advantage plan and return to Original Medicare
• Add a standalone Part D prescription drug plan (if you return to Original Medicare)

What You Can’t Do During This Time

Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment does not allow you to:

• Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan
• Enroll in Medicare Advantage if you missed AEP
• Make multiple plan changes

If you’re happy with your current plan, you don’t need to do anything.

When Does It Make Sense to Review Your Plan?

Even if you enrolled during AEP, it may be worth checking in if:

• Your doctors are not in-network as expected
• Your prescriptions cost more than anticipated
• You’re having trouble accessing benefits like dental, vision, or hearing
• Your out-of-pocket costs feel higher than planned

This period exists to give you flexibility if something doesn’t feel right.

If You’re Satisfied, You’re All Set

Many clients find that their Medicare Advantage plan works exactly as intended. If your coverage is meeting your needs, no action is required, and your plan will continue for the rest of the year.