The 2026 Medicare renewal period began on the 15th. During this time, both existing and new enrollees can review their plans and, if necessary, change or enroll in a new one. This renewal period will continue until December 7th.
The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is an annual process for seniors aged 65 and older and individuals with disabilities who meet certain eligibility requirements. During this period, you can change your existing Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan, re-elect a prescription drug plan (Part D), and cancel or transfer your existing plan.
Experts advise that you should always check to see if your existing plan is still valid during this renewal period.
Since insurance companies change their coverage, network hospitals, and drug lists every year, it’s crucial to check whether the hospitals and medications you’re currently using will still be covered next year.Kim Nam-soo, CEO of First Senior Services, said, “Those with insurance plans that are being canceled must select a new plan by December 31st of this year.”
Sim Yeon-sik, a Medicare insurance agent, said, “Check to see if you have an existing plan, and if not, sign up for a new one.”
He added, “There are significant changes in Fairfax County and Loudoun County next year.”
Kim Jong-jun, CEO of Smart Insurance, added, “Not only are benefits of existing plans changing, but some are even being eliminated entirely, so it’s crucial to first confirm whether your plan will remain in effect.”
Kwak Min-woo, CEO of Kwak Min-woo Insurance, added, “Major insurers are withdrawing from low-profit areas and drug pricing structures are being restructured, so policyholders should carefully consider whether to change plans.”
Even plans with a monthly premium of $0 can have different deductibles, co-pays, and out-of-pocket costs (MOOP). Therefore, it’s important to comprehensively review your overall medical expenses. Many people only compare monthly premiums, but if there’s a deductible, you must cover it yourself to receive coverage.
It’s also important to check for new benefits and restrictions. Some plans offer additional benefits like dental, eyeglasses, and fitness programs, but these may limit hospital access or restrict access to specific networks. Be mindful of whether your plan automatically renews. While some plans renew automatically, automatic renewal is not possible if the insurer no longer offers the plan for the next year.
Even within the same insurer, coverage and hospital networks can vary by region, so it’s best to search and compare by ZIP code.
In Northern Virginia, particularly in Fairfax, Annandale, and Centerville, major insurers like Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, Anthem, and Kaiser Permanente offer a variety of Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans. Many of these include zero-premium plans, but differences in prescription drug coverage and hospital network coverage require careful comparison.