AARP urges review of plans during Medicare Open Enrollment

AARP is urging seniors to review their Medicare plan options during this year’s Medicare Open Enrollment, (now through Dec. 7) to determine the coverage that best meets their needs for 2026, and that their doctors, hospitals, and prescription drugs are covered by their plan selected.

“Medicare Open Enrollment is the one time each year when older Americans can review their coverage and make sure it meets their health and financial needs,” said Nancy LeaMond, AARP's executive vice president and chief advocacy and engagement officer. “With major changes coming to Medicare drug and health plan benefits in 2026, it’s more important than ever for seniors to compare their options and choose the plan that will best help them afford the care they need.”

Changes you can make during open enrollment:

• Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan, or vice versa.
• Switch from one Medicare Advantage plan to another.
• Switch from one Medicare Part D prescription drug plan to another.
• Join, drop, or switch to a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan.

What’s New for 2026:

• The first Medicare-negotiated drug prices will go into effect for Eliquis, Jardiance, Xarelto, Januvia, Farxiga, Entresto, Enbrel, Imbruvica, Stelara, and NovoLog/Fiasp. The savings are expected to lower enrollees’ out-of-pocket spending by an estimated $1.5 billion in 2026, according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).
• The cap on annual out-of-pocket expenses for Part D drugs will increase to $2,100 in 2026.

Beware of scams and fraud. Open Enrollment is also prime time for fraud. Scammers may pose as Medicare representatives or offer “free” medical equipment in exchange for your Medicare number. Remember: Medicare will never call, email, or text out of the blue to ask for personal information or payment. If you’re unsure, hang up and call 1-800-MEDICARE to verify.

Free help is available

• Medicare Help Line: 1-800-633-4227.
• Medicare Plan Finder Website (www.medicare.gov/plan-compare/).
• State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) website (https://www.shiphelp.org/). (https://insurance.ohio.gov/about-us/divisions/oshiip).
• AARP Medicare Resource Center Website (https://www.aarp.org/medicare/).