Every fall, I pour myself a cup of coffee, open my mailbox—or inbox—and brace for it: the annual notice about changes to my Medicare plan. Some years it’s minor. Other times, I’ve had to rethink everything. If you’ve ever felt caught off guard by updates in premiums, coverage, or benefits, you’re definitely not alone.
Medicare changes every year. It evolves with new legislation, shifting healthcare costs, and expanding services like telehealth. And while staying ahead of it all might sound overwhelming, it doesn’t have to be.
Let’s unpack what’s new this year, how it might affect you, and what you can do to keep your coverage aligned with your real-life needs—not just the fine print.
What’s Actually New in Medicare This Year?
From premium adjustments to expanded benefits, even small changes can have big implications for your budget or care. Here’s a breakdown of the updates that matter.
1. Premiums and Deductibles: Yes, They’re Moving (Again)
Every year, Medicare adjusts costs. This year is no different—so don’t assume your monthly bill will look the same.
What to Look Out For
- Increases or decreases in Part B premiums
- Changes to annual deductibles
- Cost shifts in Medicare Advantage or Part D plans
Last year, I noticed my deductible jumped slightly—nothing major, but enough that I was glad I caught it before budgeting for the new year.
Where to Check
Don’t rely on assumptions. Review your Annual Notice of Change, or use Medicare.gov to confirm current rates.
It’s a five-minute check that could save you a lot of stress down the road.
2. Enrollment Period Updates: Timing Is Everything
The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) runs from October 15 to December 7—your once-a-year chance to switch plans or adjust your coverage.
What You Can Do During AEP
- Move from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C)
- Switch Medicare Advantage plans
- Add, drop, or change your Part D prescription plan
One year, I completely missed the deadline and had to stick with a subpar plan for twelve more months. Since then, I set reminders every September.
Tip for Serial Procrastinators
Start comparing plans by early October. Even if you’re happy with your current plan, updates could affect your medications or preferred providers.
Prescription Drug Plans and Telehealth: Big Shifts, Big Savings
Let’s talk specifics. Two key areas where many enrollees see real change are drug coverage and virtual care.
1. Medicare Part D: Lower Drug Costs for Many
This year, Medicare Part D plans have updated their formularies—aka, the list of covered meds. Some beneficiaries may see lower copays or expanded coverage for high-cost drugs.
Why It Matters
I take two maintenance medications. One used to cost $45/month; this year, it’s $12. That’s not just a bonus—it’s budget relief.
Use the Medicare Plan Finder to see if your medications are affected.
2. Telehealth: A Perk That’s Here to Stay
The pandemic forced healthcare to innovate, and Medicare stepped up by expanding telehealth. Fortunately, many of those services are sticking around.
What’s Covered
- Routine check-ups
- Mental health visits
- Some specialty consultations
Personally, I love being able to video chat with my doctor for a blood pressure follow-up instead of sitting in a waiting room for 40 minutes. If that’s you too, check your plan to make sure telehealth benefits are still available.
Why You Should Reevaluate Your Plan—Even If You Like It
Most of us treat health insurance like a set-it-and-forget-it deal. But with Medicare, small changes can have big ripple effects.
1. Annual Plan Reviews = Real Savings
A few years back, I switched plans after realizing my preferred specialist was no longer in-network. I also shaved $30/month off my premium—just by reading the plan comparison chart.
2. Tools That Make It Easy
- MyMedicare.gov for personalized coverage details
- State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs) for free, unbiased help
- Local community seminars or virtual webinars for plan walkthroughs
3. Don’t Rely on Autopilot
What worked last year may not work this year. Plans change. Networks shift. Meds get dropped. And if you don’t update, you might be the one left paying for it.
A Deeper Look at Medicare Advantage Changes
If you’re enrolled in—or considering—Medicare Advantage, there’s a lot to explore.
1. New Perks and Broader Access
Some Advantage plans now include:
- Dental, vision, and hearing coverage
- Fitness memberships
- Transportation to appointments
- Expanded mental health or caregiver support
I helped a friend compare two Advantage plans this year. One added grocery allowance benefits, which made a tangible difference in her monthly budget.
2. Watch the Fine Print
Even if a plan seems better on the surface, always confirm:
- Which providers are in-network
- Whether prior authorizations are required
- What your out-of-pocket limits are
I once learned the hard way that a lower monthly premium didn’t mean better value. My doctor wasn’t covered, and switching providers was harder than I thought.
Looking Ahead: What’s on the Horizon?
Staying current on legislative shifts and healthcare trends will help you make long-term Medicare decisions with confidence.
1. Policy Watch: Legislation Can Change Coverage
Keep an eye on:
- Caps on out-of-pocket insulin costs
- Proposals to add dental/vision to Original Medicare
- Efforts to expand telehealth permanently
I follow two healthcare newsletters just to stay in the loop. It’s a small weekly habit that helps me avoid last-minute surprises.
2. Keep Learning, Keep Asking
From Medicare 101 webinars to online tutorials, there are more free resources than ever. The more you learn, the more empowered you’ll be.
Bonus Tip: If you're overwhelmed, start with one question—like "Is my doctor still covered?" or "Did my medication change?"—and build from there.
The Answer Sheet!
- Premiums and Deductibles: Stay vigilant on annual updates to avoid surprise budget changes.
- Enrollment Essentials: Mark your calendar for the October–December enrollment period.
- Prescription Changes: Medicare Part D updates can reduce costs for specific medications—check yours!
- Telehealth Continuation: Expanded telehealth services remain part of many plans.
- Advantage Plans: Review new plan benefits and provider networks for potential advantages.
- Education is Key: Continuous education prepares you for legislative shifts impacting healthcare.
Medicare Is Moving—Make Sure You’re Moving With It
You don’t need to memorize every policy update or decode every regulation. But knowing what’s changing—and what it means for you—can save time, money, and stress.
So treat this year’s changes like a tune-up, not a test. Review your options, ask questions, and make sure your Medicare plan still fits the way you live. Because when it comes to your health, there’s no such thing as too prepared.
