By Renae Riedy
Geary County Family and Consumer Sciencs Agent
Medicare Open Enrollment runs from October 15 through December 7, and this is an important time for anyone enrolled in a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan or a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan. Even if you've been happy with your coverage in the past, plans can change from year to year, making it worthwhile to review your options annually.
One change that deserves special attention affects those enrolled in Blue Medicare Rx Essentials. While this plan has a $0 monthly premium in 2026, members who remain enrolled will pay a $45.30 monthly premium beginning in January 2027. We've seen how premium increases can catch people by surprise. When another Medicare Part D plan that previously had a $0 premium increased its rates, approximately 140,000 people nationwide were disenrolled for non-payment.
Taking a few minutes to review your plan now can help prevent unexpected costs later.For those enrolled in a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan, Open Enrollment is also a good opportunity to confirm that your doctors, hospitals, and other healthcare providers will continue to be part of your plan's network in 2027. Provider networks can change, and a quick check today can help avoid headaches down the road.
If you have a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policy, you are not required to make changes during Open Enrollment. However, some people choose to compare policies periodically to see if another option better fits their healthcare needs or budget.The bottom line is simple: Medicare Part C and Part D (drugs) can change every year. Premiums, drug coverage, provider networks, and out-of-pocket costs may all look different from one year to the next. Taking the time to shop and compare plans during Open Enrollment can help ensure you're getting the coverage that works best for you.If you'd lik