Each fall, millions of Medicare beneficiaries face one of the most important times of the year — the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP).
The AEP runs from October 15 through December 7, allows you to review your Medicare plan, compare options, and make any changes that will take effect on January 1.
At MediConnect, our goal is to make that process simple, clear, and personalized, so you can move into the new year with confidence in your coverage.
In our latest episode of Medicare Made Simple – Countdown to Coverage: Navigating Medicare’s annual enrollment we cover AEP and guide you through the changes in detail. Watch the full conversation here: https://youtu.be/OPbqFrHBGlo
What Is the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)?
AEP is the time each year when everyone with Medicare can review and update their plan. Whether you’re on a Medicare Advantage plan, a Prescription Drug Plan, or a Medicare Supplement, this period allows you to:
- Review your current plan’s changes for the coming year
- Compare new plan options that might offer better value or coverage
- Switch plans or carriers to avoid premium increases or benefit reductions
- Ensure your doctors, hospitals, and prescriptions are still covered
These updates take effect on January 1, setting the stage for your healthcare coverage for the year ahead.
AEP is now active (October 15th – December 7th) – get in touch with one of our team members to take advantage of our free service – https://mediconnectinsurance.com/
Why this year’s AEP matters more than ever
According to our CEO, Lance O’Brien, this year brings one of the largest waves of plan changes— especially due to Service Area Reductions (SARs).
“Over 200,000 people in our state are losing their current coverage. The plan they have today, if they don’t do something, will no longer be available to them come January 1st.” says O’Brien.
For many, that means starting from scratch — finding a new plan, ensuring medications are covered, and making sure doctors remain in-network. While that can sound overwhelming, understanding why it’s happening can make a difference.
What’s driving the changes?
Several key factors have created 2025’s Medicare landscape:
- Rising prescription demand: More beneficiaries are using high-cost medications.
- Lower federal reimbursements: Carriers are receiving smaller payments from the government.
- Higher utilization: More people are using benefits across the board.
All of these have forced insurance carriers to adjust by either reducing plans in certain areas, changing benefits, or raising premiums.
The good news: Lower drug costs are coming
Starting in 2026, the Inflation Reduction Act will allow Medicare to negotiate prices for high-cost Part D drugs for the first time.
Some of the first medications impacted include Eliquis, Xarelto, Jardiance, Farxiga, and Entresto — some of the most commonly prescribed (and expensive) drugs for heart and diabetes patients.
For example, Eliquis, which previously retailed around $600 per month, is expected to drop to around $250 once price negotiations take effect — saving many beneficiaries hundreds of dollars each year.
What to expect from Medicare’s 2026 plans
This AEP sets the stage for several important shifts:
- Drug deductibles: Expect some movement in either direction, depending on your carrier.
- Hospital copays: Many Medicare Advantage plans are shifting from per-stay to per-day copays, which may impact longer hospital stays.
- Premium increases: Especially for standalone drug plans, where some premiums are rising significantly.
- Reduced “Extras”: Ancillary benefits like dental, vision, hearing, and over-the-counter allowances are being scaled back on many plans.
While these changes can sound concerning, Lance emphasizes that it’s not a crisis, it’s a reset.
Is your current Medicare plan finishing on December 31st? Read below.
If your current plan is ending December 31, it’s crucial to act now. Waiting until after AEP could leave you temporarily without full coverage, even if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP).
Our team can help ensure there’s no lapse in coverage as you transition into 2026 – Get in touch today.
Why work with MediConnect
While it’s possible to research plans yourself, the reality is that Medicare is complex, and even well-informed consumers can miss key details that affect cost or coverage.
At MediConnect, our licensed advisors are here to:
- Simplify the process with clear, unbiased explanations
- Compare plans across multiple carriers, not just one
- Ensure your coverage fits both your health needs and budget
- Provide year-round support, not just during AEP
Schedule your review
You don’t have to face these changes alone. Let our certified advisors help you find the plan that keeps you covered and confident. Call: 888-818-MEDI (6334) today.
