Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period runs from Oct. 15 through Dec. 7 each year, giving eligible adults the chance to review or change their health and prescription drug coverage. Even if you’re happy with your current plan, it’s important to check your options annually. Medicare plans change from year to year, and so can your health needs. Taking a little time each fall can save you money, protect your access to the doctors you trust, and help you avoid unexpected gaps in coverage.

For family members supporting an aging parent or loved one, reviewing Medicare information together is one of the most practical ways to help them stay healthy, financially secure, and confident in their care. Here are the reasons why this annual audit is important and some tips for optimizing the process.

Why annual review matters

Plan costs fluctuate every year: Premiums, deductibles, copays, medication costs, and out-of-pocket maximums can shift significantly from one year to the next. A plan that was affordable last year might become costly this year, or new plans may offer better benefits at a lower price. Reviewing your options ensures you’re not paying more than necessary. It also prevents your current plan from automatically renewing coverage that no longer suits your needs or budget.

Doctors and hospitals can enter or leave networks: If you’re enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan (which has a different enrollment period from Jan. 1 to March 31), your preferred doctors or medical facilities might not stay in-network forever. Double-checking ensures you can continue seeing the providers you trust without expensive out-of-network charges. This is different from an Original Medicare plan, which allows you to go to any provider that accepts Medicare.

Your health needs may have changed: New diagnoses, medications, or treatment plans might mean you need different coverage than you did last year. Even if your plan hasn’t changed, your specific needs might have, so it’s smart to confirm your plan still fits your life.

You might qualify for extra benefits: Some Medicare Advantage plans offer dental, vision, hearing, non-emergency transportation, fitness programs, and over-the-counter allowances, while Original Medicare plans do not. These benefits vary widely and can improve quality of life. Newer plans or updated options could offer more support with a higher value-to-cost ratio.

What to look for when reviewing your Medicare plan

There is a lot to consider when choosing or updating your Medicare plan. Here are some main categories to keep in mind:

• Plan costs, including the monthly premium, annual deductible, copays and coinsurance, and out-of-pocket maximum
• Medication coverage, including prescriptions, quantity limits, and over-the-counter coverage
• Provider network and specialist coverage
• Specific coverage and benefits, including vision, dental, hearing, and telehealth
• Changes in your health and lifestyle that may affect your needs, such as retirement, travel preferences, and new diagnoses
• Customer service ratings for your specific plan

How families can help

Medicare can feel overwhelming, especially with the number of options available. Loved ones can support older adults by reviewing paperwork together, comparing plans online at Medicare.gov, or attending local counseling sessions through State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs). Even one dedicated conversation can help ensure safety, savings, and peace of mind for the year ahead.

The Medicare Helpline

KSNV News 3 has teamed up with Intermountain Health this year to provide you with real answers to your Medicare questions. The final Medicare Helpline of the year will be live on Monday, Dec. 1, from 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Simply call (702) 637-0509 to chat with a licensed insurance expert who can help you understand Medicare enrollment and coverage options.

This article is sponsored by Intermountain Health.