Every fall, millions of Americans who are on Medicare face an important question: Is my plan still the best fit for me? The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), which runs from October 15 to December 7, 2025, is the one time of year when most beneficiaries can make changes to their coverage. The decisions you make during this time will determine your healthcare coverage for all of 2026, so it’s important to understand what to expect and how to prepare.
What You Can Do During Annual Enrollment
The AEP gives you the chance to review your current plan and decide whether to keep it or make a change. Here are your main options:
Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C), or go back to Original Medicare if you’re currently in Advantage.
Change Medicare Advantage plans if you want a different network of doctors, premiums, or benefits.
Enroll in, switch, or drop a Part D prescription drug plan.
Drop coverage you no longer need.
The changes you make during AEP will begin on January 1, 2026.
Why Reviewing Your Plan Every Year Matters
Even if you were happy with your plan in 2025, it may not be the best choice for 2026. Medicare plans change each year, and these changes can affect your coverage in ways you might not expect. For example:
Premiums and copays may increase.
Prescription drug lists (formularies) often change, which could affect your medication costs.
Doctor and hospital networks can shift, meaning your provider might no longer be in-network.
Extra benefits like dental, vision, hearing, or wellness programs may be added or removed.
Reviewing your plan ensures that you’re not paying more than you should—or losing access to the doctors and medications you rely on.
How to Prepare for Your Appointment
The best way to make the most of AEP is to schedule a Medicare review with a trusted advisor. Before your appointment, gather the following:
Your current Medicare card and insurance plan documents
A list of your medications, including dosage and frequency
The names of your preferred doctors and clinics
Any notices from your current plan about upcoming changes
A list of questions or concerns you want to discuss
At Your Insurance Gal Agency, we walk you through each option, so you feel confident about your choices.
Local Guidance for Clark County and Southwest Washington
While online research and national hotlines provide general information, Medicare plan availability is county-specific. What’s offered in Vancouver and Clark County may not be the same as in Portland or elsewhere in Washington. That’s why it’s so valuable to work with a local Medicare agency—we know the plans, networks, and benefits that matter most in Southwest Washington.
The Bottom Line
The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period is your chance to ensure your coverage is aligned with your health needs and budget for 2026. With so many plan changes each year, reviewing your coverage with an experienced, local advisor is one of the most important steps you can take for your healthcare.
✅ Call-to-Action
Ready to review your Medicare plan for 2026? Don’t wait until December—appointment spots fill quickly during Annual Enrollment. Call Your Insurance Gal Agency today at (360) 771-1155 or [book your appointment online] to secure your review.
