Understanding Medicare and Marketplace Open Enrollment Options

It is a good time to review your health coverage and compare premiums, benefits, and provider networks to be sure your doctors, hospitals, and specialists are included.

Important enrollment details are outlined below.

Medicare is the federal health insurance program for people age 65 and older, as well as for some adults with disabilities. The Medicare enrollment period is open through Dec. 7, and any coverage changes will begin on Jan. 1, 2027.

If you have Original Medicare, your choices include:

• Staying with your current coverage
• Joining a Medicare Advantage plan
• Changing to a different standalone Part D prescription drug plan

If you are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you can:

• Remain in your current plan
• Move to a different Medicare Advantage plan
• Return to Original Medicare by enrolling in a standalone Part D prescription drug plan

Original Medicare is administered directly by the federal government, while Medicare Advantage plans are offered through private health insurance companies.

For more information on applying or making changes, visit medicare.gov.

Free help is also available from a local benefits counselor through the Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program.

People who are not eligible for Medicare may still qualify for health insurance through Covered California, the state’s official marketplace under the Affordable Care Act.

Covered California open enrollment runs from Nov. 1 through Jan. 31, 2027.

• Enroll by Dec. 31 for coverage that begins on Jan. 1, 2027.
• Enroll in January for coverage that starts on Feb. 1, 2027.

During this period, individuals may enroll for the first time, change plans, or renew coverage for the coming year. The application process also shows what financial assistance may be available and whether a person may qualify for other programs, including Medi-Cal.

More details are available at coveredca.com.

Covered California also offers free in-person assistance through local enrollment help services.

Questions or requests for help can also be directed to Rep. Nanette Diaz Barragán’s office at 310-831-1799.