Articles & Education

Medicare open enrollment is Oct. 15 through Dec. 7, 2024.

Medicare open enrollment is the time to evaluate whether to enroll in traditional Medicare or select a private insurer to provide coverage known as Medicare Advantage. Open enrollment also may be used to shop and select a Medicare Advantage plan. Your choice will influence your access to hospitals, health care providers, prescription drugs and your health care costs. Before you choose, talk to your health care providers about whether they participate in the plan you are considering.

How To Talk To Your Provider About Medicare Open Enrollment

Here are some questions you can ask to help make an informed decision based on your individual health needs.

• Do you participate in traditional Medicare and/or Medicare Advantage?
• What are the key differences between traditional Medicare and Medicare Advantage?
• Can I see any doctor I choose with either plan?
• Can you explain why the costs are different with the Medicare Advantage options and how I can determine how to make the right decision between costs and plan benefits?

• How do I understand what my prescription drugs will cost and coverage will be under Medicare and Medicare Advantage?

• Are their barriers to getting the care I need when I need it?
• Do any of my specific health conditions or needs make one option more suitable for me?
• What resources are available to help me navigate my options?
• Can I switch if I am not satisfied?

A Note For Hospitals and Health Care Providers

There are resources available to to remind consumers to compare health care access and cost, as well as coverage and treatment options before choosing a plan.

Access the resources.