Annual Enrollment Period (AEP): What Medicare Beneficiaries Need to Know for 2026

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 19:53:12 GMT

Every year, Medicare beneficiaries have an opportunity to review and make changes to their coverage during the Annual Enrollment Period, commonly known as AEP.

AEP runs from October 15 through December 7, and any changes made during this time generally become effective on January 1 of the following year.

While many people automatically renew their current plan, it's important to remember that Medicare plans can change from year to year. Premiums, copays, provider networks, prescription drug coverage, and supplemental benefits may all look different next year than they do today.

What Changes Can You Make During AEP?

• Switch from one Medicare Advantage plan to another
• Return to Original Medicare
• Join a Medicare Advantage plan for the first time
• Change your Medicare Part D prescription drug plan
• Enroll in a Part D prescription drug plan if you currently do not have one

Why Reviewing Your Coverage Matters

Many beneficiaries assume that because they are happy with their current plan, there is no need to review their options. However, plans change every year.

Common changes include:

• Doctors leaving or joining a network
• Prescription drugs moving to different formulary tiers
• Changes to copays and deductibles
• New dental, vision, hearing, transportation, or over-the-counter benefits
• Changes in monthly premiums

Watch for Your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC)

Each fall, your Medicare Advantage or Part D plan sends an Annual Notice of Change (ANOC). This document outlines any changes that will take effect in the upcoming year.

The ANOC contains important information regarding:

• Premium changes
• Copay adjustments
• Provider network updates
• Prescription drug coverage changes
• Supplemental benefit modifications

Don't Wait Until the Last Minute

AEP can be a busy time for Medicare beneficiaries and agents alike. Waiting until the last few days of enrollment can create unnecessary stress and limit the time available to evaluate your options.

Starting the review process early allows you to compare plans, verify providers, review prescriptions, and make informed decisions before the December 7 deadline.

Need Help Reviewing Your Medicare Coverage?

Choosing the right Medicare plan can be confusing, especially when benefits and costs change from year to year.

At Strategic Measures Medicare Division, we believe Medicare education comes first. Whether you're happy with your current plan or simply want a second opinion, we're here to help you understand your options and make informed decisions about your healthcare coverage.

Schedule Your Free Medicare Review Today.

Not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Government or the Federal Medicare Program.

Medicare Announces Temporary GLP-1 Weight Management Medication Program

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 17:44:12 GMT

Beginning July 1, 2026, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is launching a temporary demonstration program designed to provide eligible Medicare beneficiaries access to select GLP-1 weight management medications that are not currently covered under standard Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage.

The program is scheduled to run through December 31, 2027.

What Is the CMS GLP-1 Bridge Program?

The CMS GLP-1 Bridge Program is a Medicare-administered demonstration project that may help eligible beneficiaries obtain certain FDA-approved weight management medications through a separate Medicare process.

This program operates independently from Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D plans.

Who May Be Eligible?

Eligibility is determined by Medicare and the beneficiary's healthcare provider. In general, individuals must:

Be enrolled in Medicare with Part D prescription drug coverage.
Meet Medicare's clinical eligibility requirements.
Not already qualify for GLP-1 medication coverage under existing Medicare Part D rules.

What Medications Are Included?

At launch, the program is expected to include select GLP-1 weight management medications approved by CMS.

Medication availability and coverage are subject to change based on CMS guidance.

What Will Members Pay?

Eligible beneficiaries approved through the program are expected to pay a copayment of approximately $50 for a one-month supply of medication.

Please note: Costs associated with this program do not count toward Medicare Part D deductibles or out-of-pocket spending accumulations.

Cost-sharing is determined by Medicare and may be subject to future program updates.

How Do I Apply?

If you are interested in learning whether this program may be right for you:

Speak with your healthcare provider.
Discuss whether a GLP-1 weight management medication is medically appropriate for your situation.
Your healthcare provider can help determine eligibility and explain the next steps in the Medicare approval process.

Important Information

The CMS GLP-1 Bridge Program is administered directly by Medicare. Medicare health plans, prescription drug plans, brokers, and agents do not determine:

Eligibility
Prior authorization approvals
Covered medications
Cost-sharing amounts
Claims processing decisions

For the most current information, beneficiaries should consult their healthcare provider or Medicare directly.

Disclaimer

Information provided is for educational purposes only and is subject to change based on guidance from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

Eligibility and coverage decisions are made by Medicare and participating healthcare providers.

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