Annual Enrollment Period: Your Medicare Checklist for 2026

As the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is here, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed by the number of plan choices and the changes coming for 2026. But with a little preparation—and support from Mediconnect—you can simplify the process and make confident, informed decisions about your coverage.

Here’s your final AEP checklist, along with five important questions to ask before selecting a Medicare plan:

Your 2026 Medicare Checklist

1. Review Your Current Coverage
   Look closely at your existing plan’s premiums, co-pays, provider network, and drug coverage. Compare them against changes coming in 2026.
   
   
2. Check for Notices of Change or Termination
   If your carrier is discontinuing your plan or crosswalking you to a new one, read the notice carefully. Don’t assume your coverage will stay the same.
   
   
3. Evaluate Your Prescription Needs
   Drug formularies and tiers change every year. Make sure your medications are still covered affordably in your chosen plan.
   
   
4. Compare Total Costs—Not Just Premiums
   Look at premiums, deductibles, co-pays, and out-of-pocket maximums together. Sometimes a low premium plan can cost more overall.
   
   
5. Ask for Guidance
   Mediconnect advisors can compare all your options side-by-side, explain the fine print, and help you avoid costly mistakes.

Five Questions to Ask Before Choosing Your Coverage

1. Will my doctors and specialists be in-network?
   Always confirm your preferred providers accept the plan.
   
   
2. Are my prescriptions covered—and at what cost?
   Even one uncovered drug can mean significant expenses.
   
   
3. What extra benefits are included, and will they meet my needs?
   Dental, vision, hearing, OTC, and transportation benefits are changing—make sure they matter to you.
   
   
4. How much could I pay in the worst-case scenario?
   Understand your maximum out-of-pocket costs so there are no surprises.
   
   
5. Is this plan sustainable for me long-term?
   Consider whether rising premiums or co-pays could affect your budget in the future.

The Bottom Line
Choosing Medicare coverage doesn’t have to be stressful. By asking the right questions and following this checklist, you can go through the AEP prepared and confident. And remember—you don’t have to do it alone. Mediconnect is here to guide you every step of the way, making sure your 2026 plan fits both your healthcare needs and your budget.