AEP (Annual Enrollment Period) comes around every fall, and it’s the time when Medicare plans update their benefits. Even if you’re happy with your current coverage, things can change from year to year — and those changes can affect your costs, access, and care. Taking a few minutes to review your plan now can help you avoid surprise bills and coverage gaps later.
1. Drug List (Formulary)
Your prescriptions may not be covered the same way every year. A medication that was on your plan’s formulary last year might have moved to a higher cost tier or been removed entirely. Review your Medicare drug coverage and compare it with your current medications to avoid unexpected pharmacy costs.
Taking a few minutes to review your plan now can help you avoid surprise bills and coverage gaps later.
Watch: I break down these three coverage changes in this short video — perfect if you prefer listening over reading.
2. Doctor Network
Doctors and hospitals can join or leave a plan’s network at any time. Just because your provider was in-network last year doesn’t guarantee they still are. Check your Medicare Advantage plan’s provider directory or call your doctor’s office to confirm they’re still participating.
3. Pharmacy Status
Many Medicare plans have “preferred pharmacies” where you’ll pay lower copays. If your usual pharmacy is no longer preferred, you could end up spending more. Check your plan’s pharmacy network to make sure you’re still getting the best deal.
Small changes in Medicare coverage can lead to bigger costs over time. Reviewing these three areas during AEP helps you stay ahead and make confident choices. Want to make sure your plan still fits your budget? Review your Medicare costs before AEP ends — including premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket limits.
I’m here to share clear Medicare info — not sales. If you’d like more help breaking it all down, you can grab my free Medicare guide here.
This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute official Medicare advice. I am not affiliated with Medicare or any government agency. For complete coverage options, visit Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE.
Examples shared are general scenarios for educational purposes and do not reflect any specific individual or situation. This content does not provide plan recommendations or enrollment guidance.
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