Medicare Mondays with Mackenzie: Why it pays to review your coverage before the Dec. 7 deadline

Medicare's Annual Enrollment Period is now open, and even if you're satisfied with your plan, this is the right moment to take a closer look.

Changes in prescription drug costs, provider networks, and other updates for the coming year can have a real impact on your coverage, so reviewing your choices now could matter down the road.

We Are Austin host Trevor Scott recently welcomed back Mackenzie Anderson, a licensed agent with Premier Medicare Solutions, for another edition of "Medicare Mondays with Mackenzie," aimed at helping Central Texans feel more informed about Medicare options.

The Annual Enrollment Period gives eligible beneficiaries a window to review and adjust their Medicare Advantage and prescription drug plans for the upcoming year.

Watch the full video above for Mackenzie's advice on reviewing your coverage and getting ready for the deadline.

Why check a plan that already seems to be working?

A plan that fits well now may not offer the same benefits in the next coverage year.

"There's no guarantee that the benefits won't change," Anderson said.

For that reason, she urges beneficiaries to read their Annual Notice of Change, or ANOC, which outlines updates to a current plan, including possible changes to costs, benefits, and coverage.

The notice is usually available from the insurance provider by mail or online.

What should you be watching for?

Anderson says beneficiaries should think about how any plan changes could affect their own healthcare needs.

"Doctor networks can change throughout the year, and formularies change every year," she explained.

Before making a choice, check whether your doctors are still in-network, whether your prescriptions remain covered, and whether any new costs or benefit changes still fit your budget.

Anderson also talked about changes tied to the Medicare Part D Premium Stabilization Demonstration, which is set to end in 2026, and the possible effect on prescription drug plans.

Knowledge is power!

Anderson recommends comparing your current coverage with the options available for the next year, even if you end up staying with the same plan.

"If it's the same plan, that's great. You don't have to do anything. It'll just roll over," Anderson said, referring to plans that remain available and renew automatically.

For more help, Anderson offers free consultations and discusses Medicare updates on her monthly podcast.

Contact Premier Medicare Solutions:

Phone: 512-599-9527

Website: PremierMedicareSolutions.com

Email: [email protected]

Reviewing coverage before the deadline is important during Medicare's Annual Enrollment Period.

Medicare plan availability, benefits, costs, and enrollment eligibility vary. Medicare Supplement policies follow different enrollment rules. Review official plan documents before making coverage decisions.