Medicare and Annual Enrollment Season: What You Need to Know

Each year, Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Season, from October 15 through December 7, gives beneficiaries the chance to review and update their coverage. With so many options, rules, and deadlines, it can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. Whether it is your first time or you are seeking a trusted advisor, Desmond Insurance is here to educate and guide. We believe confident, informed decisions about healthcare coverage should be easily accessible and straightforward.

Understanding Medicare
Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily for individuals 65 and older, but also covers some younger individuals with specific disabilities. It’s divided into several parts:

• Part A (Hospital Insurance): Helps cover inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home health services.
• Part B (Medical Insurance): Covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, and durable medical equipment.
• Part C (Medicare Advantage): Offered through private insurers, these plans bundle Part A, B, and often D into one. They may also include additional benefits, such as dental, vision, or wellness programs.
• Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage): Helps reduce prescription costs, also through private insurers.

Together, these parts form the foundation of Medicare, but coverage can vary significantly depending on the plan you choose.

What is the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)?
The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is the eight weeks from October 15 through December 7 during which beneficiaries can make changes to their coverage for the following year. It’s the one time of year when you have the flexibility to reassess your health and financial needs and adjust accordingly.

What changes can be made during AEP?
During the Annual Enrollment Period, you can:

• Choose to move from Original Medicare (Parts A & B) to a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan, or switch back.
• Select a new Medicare Advantage plan if your current one no longer meets your needs.
• Enroll in, drop, or switch a Part D Prescription Drug Plan.
• Review your current plan to ensure it continues to meet your needs. If your health has changed or your prescription costs have increased, contact your provider to discuss updating your plan.

Why Should You Review Your Plan?
Even if you have been satisfied with past coverage, review it yearly for these reasons:

• Plans can change. Premiums, deductibles, copays, and benefits may be adjusted annually. A plan that worked last year may not be suitable this year.
• Drug formularies may change. A prescription that was covered affordably this year could be more expensive—or not covered at all—next year.
• Provider networks can change. Doctors, hospitals, or specialists may join or leave a plan's network, which can affect where you can receive care.
• Your health needs may change. Updates to your health, medications, or lifestyle may mean your current plan is no longer the best.

By reviewing your plan during Annual Enrollment, you can ensure that you’re still getting the coverage that best fits your needs and budget.

How Desmond Insurance Can Help
At Desmond Insurance, we understand Medicare can be complex—but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Our experienced agents learn about your health needs, budget, and preferences. We clarify options, compare plans, and help you feel confident in your decision.

With us, Medicare Annual Enrollment is less confusing and more reassuring.

Contact Us Today!
​Set up a no-cost appointment with no obligation to enroll with Bob Fleckenstein, Desmond's Medicare Specialist, so you can understand your options this Annual Enrollment Season!