December 2, 2022
Medicare Open Enrollment Season Reminder
Every year Medicare’s annual open enrollment season begins on October 15th and ends on December 7th. During this period, Medicare beneficiaries can make several choices about their health care for the following year. Read below for some commonly asked questions about Medicare open enrollment.
When do the choices made during this open enrollment become effective?
Coverage for the choices made during the current open enrollment season start on January 1, 2023.
What are my options for changing my Medicare coverage during open enrollment season?
Your options during open enrollment include:
- Switching to a Part C Medicare Advantage plan from Original Medicare;
- Switching to Original Medicare from a Part C Medicare Advantage Plan;
- Staying with Part C but choosing a different Medicare Advantage plan;
- Staying with Original Medicare but choosing a new Medicare Part D prescription drug plan;
- Selecting a stand-alone Part D prescription drug plan if switching to Original Medicare.
When should I consider changing my Medicare coverage?
Even if you are satisfied with your health insurance, you should evaluate your Medicare coverage every year during the open enrollment season. Common circumstances that require a change are:
- You move out of a Medicare Advantage Plan’s coverage area.
- Your physician or local hospital is no longer in a Medicare Advantage Plan’s coverage network.
- Your stand-alone Part D Plan or the prescription coverage in a Medicare Advantage Plan does not cover the drugs prescribed by your doctor.
- You find a stand-alone Part D Plan or Medicare Advantage Plan that is less expensive.
Should I expect Medicare to be more expensive in 2023?
There is good news about the Medicare Part B premium. In 2023, the Medicare Part B premium decreases to $164.90 from $170 in 2022. Also in 2023, Part D plans cannot charge more than $35 for a one month supply of insulin. Because Part D Plans and Medicare Advantage Plans are provided by private health insurance companies, premiums and other costs will vary. This link outlines what you can anticipate for your 2023 Medicare expenses.
I have several questions regarding my specific circumstances. Where can I find help?
Medicare has an online plan finder for health and prescription drug coverage. You can click here to contact your state’s health insurance program (SHIP). In Massachusetts, the program is called Serving Health Information Needs of Everyone (SHINE). Click here to learn more and contact a local SHINE counselor.
