What’s Changing on Medicare Plans for 2027 (and Why AEP Is the Time to Check)
Every fall, Medicare Advantage and Part D plans can change for the coming year — even if nothing about your health has changed. The Annual Enrollment Period (October 15–December 7) is your yearly chance to review what’s different and decide whether your plan still fits.
Five things that can change from year to year
Even a plan you like can look different in January. These are the areas most likely to change:
- Monthly premium. What you pay each month can go up or down.
- Drug coverage (the formulary). Plans add and drop medications each year and can move a drug to a higher cost tier — so a medication covered this year may cost more, or not be covered, next year.
- The pharmacy network. Your preferred pharmacy may no longer be “preferred,” which can change what you pay.
- The provider network. Doctors and hospitals can join or leave a plan’s network, so it’s worth confirming your providers are still in-network for 2027.
- Extra benefits and out-of-pocket costs. Copays, deductibles, and any added benefits can be adjusted.
Your best clue: the Annual Notice of Change
Each September, your plan mails a document called the Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) that spells out what’s different for the year ahead. It’s easy to set aside — but it’s the single best place to spot a change that affects you. Keep it handy when you review your options.
You don’t have to sort through it alone. A licensed advisor can compare your current plan against the other options available where you live and help you decide whether to stay put or switch — in plain language, with no pressure. Not sure where to start? Our Medicare 101 guide covers the basics.
The Jeff George Agency is a licensed insurance agency. We are not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program.
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