So with all these 2025 Medicare changes, should I be switching plans or staying put?

Question

John Stagner · Accepted Answer

That’s really on an individual basis. If you have a Medicare Supplement, those don’t change from year to year, so the only thing you need to review with your agent is your Prescription Drug Plan.

Medicare Advantage plans DO change from year to year. The two questions you should ask your agent:
1) Are there any negative changes to my plan, and
2) Any positive changes, or better options for me?

The one thing you should NOT do is assume that staying in the same Medicare Advantage or Prescription Drug Plan will give you the exact same coverage from one year to the next. They can change - even if you don’t.

Gary Church · Answer

I recommend waiting until AEP, which runs from October 15th through December 7th. Any time during that period is a good opportunity to review your current plan and the new plans for 2026.

Norman Smith · Answer

Depends... what do you have? 
If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, you need to see what the differences are to going back to original Medicare. If you are in a position where you need to stay in a Medicare Advantage Plan, then maybe you want to see what changed in your plan this year, and consider some others, as there have been significant changes to those plans. Is your plan even there anymore, or did they combine you into a different plan with fewer benefits? 
It's a good time to check it out, my friend!

Lt Col Tim Brown · Answer

It depends if your happy with your current plan.  Doesn't hurt to compare.  Give me a call I'm licensed in many states.  

Tim Brown
Contact me.

William Lawler · Answer

There are Medicare changes every year and it is your agent`s job to check and make sure you still have the best health plan available. If your agent finds a better plan for you, he can help you switch.

Answered by William Lawler on September 18, 2025

Broker Licensed in MO, FL, IA & 12 other states

Answered by William Lawler Medicare Insurance Agent

George Ibanez · Answer

This is a complex answer that will require much more detailed information from you, and I cannot answer without the additional information.
If you need an accurate answer, contact George Ibanez.

Pamela Masters · Answer

It is based on your needs and the things you would like to see on your plan. Talking with an agent is always a good way to know what is available in your area.

Edward Smith, ChFC, CRPS, AIF · Answer

That all depends on whether you feel your current plan still meets your needs. Medicare Advantage plans can change every year. Sometimes it is small changes like a slight increase in a co-pay versus other times they may eliminate a benefit like reducing the OTC benefits, eliminating Silver Sneakers, reducing dental benefits etc. There is no one size fits all. It is important to find an independent Medicare Broker, like me that will work with you find what works for you.

Answered by Edward Smith, ChFC, CRPS, AIF on December 8, 2025

Broker Licensed in OH, GA, IN, KY & TN

Answered by Edward Smith, ChFC, CRPS, AIF Medicare Insurance Agent

Clarence &quot;Mark&quot; Christiansen · Answer

The question is, with all these different Medicare plans in the current calendar year 2025, should I be switching or should I be staying put? It's too late to be switching. The annual enrollment period begins October 15th and ends December 7th, so that's your window to change, and we're way past that now. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, you can switch from January 1 until the end of March, and we're past that also. Today is April 10th, 2025, so I wouldn't worry.

I think, you know, the government subsidizes Medicare Advantage. The plans have to really follow CMS guidelines, and Medicare Advantage by law must be at least as good as Medicare. So don't worry. Too many people think they have to change plans every year. I don't think that's necessary. Certainly, you ought to analyze your plan every year, but I don't feel that people need to be jumping around from plan to plan on an annual basis.

Now, if you have a supplement and you don't like that, your supplement plans generally are identical in terms of coverages, depending on what plan you have, like Plan F or G or whatever the letter code is for your plan. So if you're getting sharp increases in Medicare supplement premiums, your coverage isn't going to change. Generally, the coverage for the most part in a Medicare supplement isn't going to change. But if the premiums start going up and if you qualify to switch, then yeah, it's probably a good idea to talk to your experienced independent Medicare agent who has access to all the major plans in your zip code. I can think of at least one person who can do that for you, but I can't remember his name right off hand. When I think of it, I'll come back and let you know.

Vincent Murray · Answer

It Depends.  Comparing plans is a good Idea.  For 2026 the new plans are out.  Reach out to a Medicare Advocate and ask for a free consultation.  You can also view plans on my website.

Justin Doherty · Answer

This depends entirely on your own situation. I highly recommend speaking with your agent (or finding one to speak with) that will help you review your plan and preferences. Some years staying put is the right choice, and other years, changing is a must! A good agent will be able to help you evaluate which option is right for you.

Answered by Justin Doherty on September 26, 2025

Broker Licensed in PA, CO, CT & 11 other states

Answered by Justin Doherty Medicare Insurance Agent

Richard Moreno · Answer

It’s best to review your current plan and compare to the new plan or plans with others to make sure your benefits haven’t changed and also to make sure your doctors and medications are in network with the new plans and changes

Answered by Richard Moreno on July 4, 2025

Broker Licensed in TX, CA, FL, LA, NM & OH

Answered by Richard Moreno Medicare Insurance Agent

Don Hudson · Answer

Should I change Plans or stay put with all the Medicare changes.... This is a great question!!
The best advice I can give you is, if you received your Annual Notice of Change Letter from your Medicare Plan and understand what is changing, that is a good start. If you don't understand what is changing, it would be best to reach out to a local agent, sit down with them so they can explain the changes for the coming year. We do a Plan Review for all our clients every year.

Steven Whetstine · Answer

This is a good question with not enough space for me to answer.

Also, I am not sure if this was a question from last year for the 2025 year.  If so, there were changes to where the coverage gap or "donut hole" was eliminated with the 2025 prescription drug plans having a maximum out of pocket instituted of $2000.  Also, the MP3 option was implemented which was the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan allowing Medicare Beneficiaries who may have high cost medications to spread their payments over the annual year to make it easier for budgeting purposes.

For 2026, the maximum out of pocket limit will be increased to $2100 for prescription drug plan costs.

If referencing changes from 2025 to 2026, there have been a lot of changes in the Medicare market.  

Many insurance carriers (not all) have reduced their footprint in the Medicare Advantage plan market across the U.S.  A small portion of insurance carriers have increased their footprint.

Also, there is a move from PPO plans being eliminated or reduced, and many of the major insurance carriers are changing their focus to HMO plans within the Medicare Advantage market.  

In addition, there was a VBID or Value Based Insurance Design model that was implemented in 2017 for Medicare Advantage Plans.  This will end on December 31, 2025.  This decision was made by CMS (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services) due to substantial costs within the program.  What this means is that a lot of the benefits needed to be revisited by insurance carriers.  Insurance carriers may have eliminated or reduced benefits or have switched their focus to benefits that Medicare beneficiaries tend to prioritize over other benefits.  Many plans with similar benefits have switched focus to Special Supplemental Benefits for the Chronically Ill or SSBCI model.  With this option, Medicare beneficiaries have to qualify to be in the plans and usually have 60 days to verify the chronic condition.

Plans should be reviewed annually.

Ravi Natarajan · Answer

It depends. A lot of changes are happening for 2026. Plans are changing, terminating, and in some cases, carriers are exiting the market. Please pay close attention to your Annual Notice of Change Letter (ANOC).
Please complete your profile so I can assist you.
You can also schedule an appointment.
Regards,
Ravi

Sandra (Sandy) Steffy · Answer

Deciding whether to switch Medicare plans or stay put in light of the 2025 changes depends on a few factors:

1. **Changes to Benefits:** Review the details of the changes for the plan you're currently on. If your current plan is reducing benefits or increasing costs, it may be worth considering a switch.

2. **Personal Health Needs:** Assess your health needs and how well your current plan meets them. If you anticipate needing more coverage or have new healthcare needs, switching to a new plan could be beneficial.

3. **Plan Comparisons:** Take the time to compare other available plans. Compare premiums, out-of-pocket costs, and networks to see if there is a plan that offers better value or services tailored to your needs.

4. **Enrollment Periods:** Be mindful of the enrollment periods. Changes typically need to be made during the annual open enrollment period, so timing is crucial.

5. **Expert Guidance:** Consulting with a Medicare agent can be helpful to understand the implications of the changes and to receive personalized advice based on your situation.

Ultimately, it's essential to carefully evaluate your options to ensure you have the best coverage for your healthcare needs and budget moving forward.

Paula Duffy · Answer

You can always review your options with a sales agent like myself.  Your needs may change or you may be content with your current plan.

Jamie Goble · Answer

Good question. There wear a lot more changes for the 2026 year. I would be happy to help compare plans for you .To get the best fit. You would just need a list of meds, drs, and hospitals you wish to go to.

Answered by Jamie Goble on December 22, 2025

Broker Licensed in IL, AR, FL, MD & MO

Answered by Jamie Goble Medicare Insurance Agent

Sarah Rollins · Answer

The answer to this depends on you! Everyone has a unique situation and there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to Medicare coverage. Providers change, medications change, your health conditions change. I take all these things into consideration when consulting with my clients. I recommend you consult with a trusted broker to guide you through the transition to 2026.

Answered by Sarah Rollins on September 6, 2025

Broker Licensed in CO, AZ, CA, ME, SC & TN

Answered by Sarah Rollins Medicare Insurance Agent

Joel Hill · Answer

Not necessarily. The 2025 Medicare changes don’t automatically mean you should switch plans. If your doctors, medications, and costs are still working well for you, staying with your current plan may make sense.

However, plans can still change their premiums, drug lists, and provider networks each year. Because of that, it’s always a good idea to review your coverage

Tammera Marrs · Answer

Reviewing the current plan with the client, and explaining what options are available is the best way I know to analyze what is best for 2025.

Amber Sigg · Answer

With the changes this year, don't assume either way. Look at your current plan, costs, coverage etc, and compare your upcoming needs with what you currently have. If what you have fits your needs stay put, if it isn't going to work for the upcoming year, look at possibly making a change and explore other options.

Answered by Amber Sigg on December 2, 2025

Broker Licensed in CO & WY

Answered by Amber Sigg Medicare Insurance Agent

Scott Sims · Answer

Currently in April, we can't change plans unless we move or have some other Special Enrollment Period, like having a chronic condition (change Medicare advantage plans). So it depends on what time of the year you are talking about. If we are talking currently in April, then we would need an SEP.

Answered by Scott Sims on April 21, 2025

Broker Licensed in OR, AZ, CA & 15 other states

Answered by Scott Sims Medicare Insurance Agent

Mark Holmes · Answer

There have been many dropped and side walked plans this season, realizing the volatility in the Medicare arena, I would stay with my current plan until it was discontinued, as that would create an Open Enrollment for a plan of choice at that juncture.

Answered by Mark Holmes on March 9, 2026

Broker Licensed in FL, AL, AZ & GA, MI, TN & TX

Answered by Mark Holmes Medicare Insurance Agent

Steven Bleicher · Answer

If the agent/broker who you used has proven to be trustworthy, this is a question for her/him. But if you did not interview at least two agents in making your decision, you would be better off doing that now. This is especially true if you’re still in your 65th year since you still have time to exercise a “trial right” and can make revisions to your plans without you answering any medical questions at all. But if you already are 66 at this time, you must answer the questions about any health issues and what is your current list of meds?

Answered by Steven Bleicher on June 7, 2025

Broker Licensed in AZ

Answered by Steven Bleicher Medicare Insurance Agent

Andrew Zurbuch, MBA · Answer

You should review your Policy during Open Enrollment, & consider your health, your prescriptions if any, & your chronic health problems if you have at all. If your on a Medicare Advantage plan, then you may need to make a change during next Open Enrollment. Please contact a Broker for assistance.

Plans are insured or covered by a Medicare Advantage (HMO, PPO and PFFS) organization with a Medicare contract and/or a Medicare-approved Part D sponsor. Enrollment in the plan depends on the plan’s contract renewal with Medicare. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.

Diana Garner · Answer

You should review your Medicare plan annually because plans are updated each year to align with CMS guidelines.

These changes could affect your:
     * Max out-of-pocket for medical and drugs
     * Deductibles, copays, and coinsurance amounts
     * Plan benefits/coverage
     * Drug formularies and provider network

Jim Tretola · Answer

You should have reviewed your Plan and choices during the Annual Enrollment period, and if they are not optimal, in January, there is the Open Enrollment Period, and you have some options at that time.

Answered by Jim Tretola on December 16, 2025

Broker Licensed in NJ, CA, CT & 6 other states

Answered by Jim Tretola Medicare Insurance Agent

Ron Cronwell · Answer

The changes changes in plans will be finalized and published by October 1, 2025 for the 2026 plan year. Each year in late  September or early October, each plan provider sends out to current enrollee an Annual Notice Of Change document. In the document is a  comparison of the current year  benefits to the new year benefits.

Another way to obtain the same information is to contact a local agent and have them review your plan and your situation, help you determine if a change in plans is warranted. Some agents host Medicare  seminars or host resource walk in locations, stating the October 15th, where you can obtain new year plan information.

Michael Pyers · Answer

It always pays to check every year. You will get an annual notice of changes in late Sept or early Oct. Many times benefits change, or maybe your Physician decides to no longer participate in the plan you have now. Checking costs you nothing. Better be safe than sorry.

Answered by Michael Pyers on August 18, 2025

Broker Licensed in OH & MI

Answered by Michael Pyers Medicare Insurance Agent

Terry Salak · Answer

Everyone’s situation is going to be different based on your medical needs.  There is no “one-size fits all” shredder to this question.

Thomas Magnus, RHU · Answer

Best to consult with a Professional Medicare Broker to discuss your particular situation - likes - dislikes - interests. Medicare is not a "one size fits all" proposition. Your options may be dictated by timing(some plans are only available from October 15 thru December 7 for a January 1 effective date). Others may require you to "qualify" based on Medical Underwriting. Once again, call us for a no cost and unbiased review.

Answered by Thomas Magnus, RHU on May 18, 2026

Broker Licensed in CA, AZ, NV, OR & WA

Answered by Thomas Magnus, RHU Medicare Insurance Agent

Betty McCarty · Answer

Medicare is undergoing significant changes in 2025, including:

1. A $2,000 annual limit on out-of-pocket Part D drug costs.
2. Elimination of the prescription drug coverage gap, commonly known as the "donut hole."
3. An optional payment plan for Part D expenses.
4. Expanded coverage for various services and medications.

During the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), it was crucial to review your potential costs and plans for 2025. If you missed the last AEP, you can prepare for the next one, which begins October 15th and ends December 7th. 

Starting your research early in October will give you more time to evaluate your options as new plans become available for the upcoming year.

If you'd like assistance reviewing your available benefits or guidance through the review process, feel free to reach out. We're happy to help!
Let me know if you'd like further refinements!

Diana Salisbury · Answer

You should work with an agent or broker to go over what changes might impact you.  This is a good every year practice to get starting doing.

Kelly Linster · Answer

It never hurts to take a look. By all means you don’t have to make a switch if you don’t want to.  But it’s not a bad idea to see what other competitors are offering.

Brian Kulis · Answer

There are too many variables to answer that here. Please seek out a local broker that can help you compare plans and benefits for 2026.

Sagrario &quot;Sage&quot; Dyer · Answer

You should be doing a plan review every year to see if switching plans is in your best interest when it comes to your health during 2025. Making sure that your doctors are still in network and that your medications are covered is crucial in making a decision to change to another plan, either within the same carrier or to a completely different company. Always speak to a licensed, independent agent, preferably a local specialist, when thinking about changing plans. Good agents should be offering their services at no cost, great agents will education you on the plan and how to use it to your advantage.

Answered by Sagrario "Sage" Dyer on March 16, 2026

Broker Licensed in AZ, CA, CO & 10 other states

Answered by Sagrario "Sage" Dyer Medicare Insurance Agent

Alan &quot;AL&quot; Minthorn · Answer

2026 plan details will be available in October. Most people do not have a valid Election Period to make a change before Annual Enrollment. As much as 2025 changes were dramatic; 2026 is likely to much worse in many markets.

Answered by Alan "AL" Minthorn on August 1, 2025

Broker Licensed in ME, FL, NC & NH

Answered by Alan "AL" Minthorn Medicare Insurance Agent

Cindy Clonts · Answer

You should always review your plan every year.  2025 had a lot of part D changes and so everyone needs a review especially in 2025.

Christopher Garcia · Answer

That question is Best answered by reviewing your plan options as plans change every year. The 2025 changes don’t necessarily mean that you should change plans, but it does mean that the plans will be affected. Carriers adjust benefits each year based on many factors. There are also sometimes plans that leave certain areas as well as carriers that may be new to your area for 2026. If you need assistance, contact a local licensed agent. Our services are at no cost to you.

Answered by Christopher Garcia on August 4, 2025

Broker Licensed in NM, AZ, CO & TX

Answered by Christopher Garcia Medicare Insurance Agent

Katheryn Evans · Answer

Each October or November  it is wise to meet with your Medicare insurance broker and review the next year's plans. 

There are quite a few changes each year and we anticipate changes you will want to be aware of for 2026. 

The best way to stay on top of these changes is to meet with an experienced broker who is familiar either the new changes and the various plans that are available. 

If you already have a MedAdv plan in addition to meeting with a broker October 1 through December 7th you are also meet in January, February or March. You are also able to switch to another MedAdv plan or return to original Medicare January through March.

Carla Butler · Answer

With all the 2025 Medicare changes, it really comes down to whether your current plan still meets your needs and budget. It’s smart to review your options so you can either stay confident in your coverage or make a move that better fits you.

Answered by Carla Butler on October 22, 2025

Broker Licensed in MO & KS

Answered by Carla Butler Medicare Insurance Agent

Sandra Kerley · Answer

I recommend to all of my clients to advise me of any changes they may have had during the year. October 15th to December 7th is the time of year that you can change plans for the upcoming year. I have had some clients stay in same plan, I have had clients that change plans almost every year. Even if Medicare or your situation doesn't change. Plans do change every year. I recommend knowing your options every year. This response is all based on if you have a Medicare Advantage plan.

Answered by Sandra Kerley on April 23, 2025

Broker Licensed in SC, IN, NC, OH, VA & VT

Answered by Sandra Kerley Medicare Insurance Agent

Gary Henderson · Answer

The biggest change was to prescription drug plans and you can only change those during the open enrollment. October 15th through December 7th 
It's a good idea to look at those cuz a lot of companies drop their lower cost plans and switch people to the higher plans. And if you did not notice that in time for the ability to switch policies, then you're stuck with it for the entire 2025 year. So watch for those annual notice of change letters that come out in September or October each year and then you'll know what to expect

Andrew Kramer · Answer

What changes are you referring to? No changes to original Medicare have occurred in 2025. And Advantage plans cannot change mid-year. When you receive your Annual Notice of change in late Sept, you can then see if there are co-pay changes to your plan for 2026. If you consider a change, remember 2 things: #1 all Medicare Advantage plans follow original Medicare for the core health benefits, and #2 be sure your Dr's accept any plan switch you may consider. Most people do not change plans from one year to the next.

Answered by Andrew Kramer on July 23, 2025

Agent Licensed in FL

Answered by Andrew Kramer Medicare Insurance Agent

Carol Thompson · Answer

Depends on your plan coverage and whether there were changes to your benefits to you advantage or disadvantage.

Todd Bostic · Answer

I would do some research and see if your plan is making changes you can’t live with, if they are leaving your area or dropping your doctor, definitely change, but all of the cosmetic changes are just personal preference.

Answered by Todd Bostic on June 23, 2025

Broker Licensed in TX, AL, AZ & 12 other states

Answered by Todd Bostic Medicare Insurance Agent

Karen Ansell · Answer

It is very important to compare plans yearly. Speak with a broker who represents many plans. Have them compare your doctors, medications, hospital and pharmacy of choice to all plans to make sure you are getting the best plan for your individual needs.

I would recommend to read your Annual Notice of Change closely. Annual Enrollment starts October 1st with applications excepted between October 15th - December 7th with an effective date of January 1st.

Eizel Mere · Answer

This is an old question and same answer still applies for 2026. Plans change deductibles, copays and benefits. It is important to go over the plan for 2026 and compare with other plans. Maybe the plan you have is still the best option, maybe you are now a cardiac patient and are able to qualify for a better plan or maybe in 2025 you had a car but now for 2026 are unable to drive so transport is a benefit that you will need. The perfect Advantage plan is the one that fits your needs. Call me discuss your plan for 2026, free of charge ofcourse. I will be honest and only recomend a change if necessary.

Answered by Eizel Mere on September 22, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL

Answered by Eizel Mere Medicare Insurance Agent

Julie Thompson · Answer

You should review your ANOC (annual notice of Changes) which tells you what will change for 2026 and always double check your current Rx list to the new drug formulary list.

Sam Silva · Answer

​Given the recent changes in Medicare for 2025, it's a good idea to review your current coverage to ensure it aligns with your healthcare needs.

The Trump administration has approved a significant $25 billion increase in payments to Medicare Advantage plans for 2026, providing a major financial boost to health insurers. This could lead to enhanced benefits or lower costs in some plans.

Jami Mead · Answer

This is a question that I cannot answer without speaking with you first. I am always available by phone call. You can contact me to discuss further. There are a few options for changing this year in the middle of the year for special election periods, but we can always look to see for you and your situation. 2026 plans will be available to look ahead to as of October 1st.

Answered by Jami Mead on September 8, 2025

Broker Licensed in OH, FL, GA & 11 other states

Answered by Jami Mead Medicare Insurance Agent

Michelle Ryan · Answer

The answer to that is simple. A thorough need assessment should be done to determine what you NEED in a plan. This is why working with a local, trusted broker is so very important.

William Murray · Answer

Whether or not you should switch plans depends on your personal experience and comfort.
If your current plan meets your specific medical needs at a cost and service level which is acceptable to you, and the plan is accepted by the medical providers you currently use and those you may expect to use going forward, then it doesn't make sense to switch.
If you think there is a plan out there which may be better suited for your specific needs, then you should talk with an agent you trust who can point you in the right direction.
I am not someone who would switch a members plan just so I can gain another client and/or increase my commissions.
The most important situation is one that is best for you, not anyone else.

Claudia Englert · Answer

It all depends on what plan you are on, and the only way to know if you should keep your current plan or change is to do an analysis. All I need to know is what plan you are on now, a list of your doctors names and your medications with dosages, your zip code and pharmacy used. Then I can do an analysis and advise you whether to keep your present plan or change for next year.

Answered by Claudia Englert on November 17, 2025

Broker Licensed in OH

Answered by Claudia Englert Medicare Insurance Agent

Charlie Fitzgerald · Answer

I recommend to all my clients to have me do an annual review during AEP.  This way if there are suitable changes that need to be made, we can make them.

Al Saponar · Answer

Many of the 2025 Medicare changes were implemented in January.

We were comparing plans for 2025 during the Annual Enrollment period for 2025.

If someone wants to compare plans or change plans now, it would be for 2026.

The Annual Enrollment period for 2026 is from October 15 to December 7th 2025 for a Jan 1, 2026 effective date.

Whether one changes or stays put depends on the medications, as well as the doctors.

There is no charge for my assistance.

Kim Mitchell-Hargis · Answer

This is currently July of 2025 and you cannot change plans unless you have a special election period. That could mean you lose employer coverage or perhaps move out of the county you live in currently. You need an SEP to change until October 15th when AEP begins.

Answered by Kim Mitchell-Hargis on July 14, 2025

Broker Licensed in TN, FL & KY

Answered by Kim Mitchell-Hargis Medicare Insurance Agent

Douglas Carney · Answer

As a Medicare-specialized health insurance broker, I’m here to guide you through the 2025 Medicare changes and help you decide whether to switch plans or stay put with confidence. With the new $2,000 Part D drug cost cap, shrinking Medicare Advantage (MA) plan options, and rising Part B premiums ($185/month).
If your current MA or Part D plan still covers your doctors, drugs, and budget—great, stay put! But if your plan’s network, benefits (like dental or vision), or costs are changing, or you’re in one of the 1.4 million terminated MA plans. I always recommend an annual policy review to ensure you’re all set. As you age so does your coverage needs.

Shahnaz Razvi · Answer

If you premium is affordable, and all your drugs are covered at a reasonable cost. And if you have an in network preferred pharmacy that is working for you.

It is usually advisable to stay with your current plan rather than change. Finding out which plan will fit you and which tiers your Part D will fall under with the new plan and company.

Paul Mercier · Answer

The only way to truly tell is to sit down with a licensed agent and go over your current information and see what is important to you and see what options are available

Martha Lopez-Elkind · Answer

The short answer to this question is: It Depends.
There are many changing parts with plans being added and in some cases taken away by insurance carriers.
Make sure you are speaking with a local, knowledgeable, professional agent who specializes in all things Medicare. This is a complicated, ever changing area of the health care industry that merits to be looked for what it is. 
I recommend that you take your time and find an agent who will listen, answers your questions in a timely manner, and guides you in the right direction. That is the difference between a good agent and a great agent who at the end of the day, might save you more than just money.

Tony Carlton · Answer

Thank you for your question. And to get right to the point... it depends. How's that for succinct expertise? But really, all the changes from 2026 to 2026 mean that this year more than most requires a thorough review of your plan to see if it will even be offered in 2026. So, pay attention to all correspondence from your current carrier. Second, eve if your plan will continue into 2026, I strongly recommend that you review how your 2026 plan will stack up against other plans that will be offered in your area in 2026.
Especially look for changes to your Prescription Drug Plan formulary. These formularies change every year and even if you are covered by a Medicare supplement plan, your should review the estimated cost of your meds to see if there is, perhaps a lower cost option.
If you are on a Medicare Advantage plan you should review all of the above AND the ancillary benefits like dental and vision. I recommend this because if you anticipate needing a good amount of dental work in 2026, well you may lean toward a plan that offers much more dental. The same goes for vision benefits.
Consider all of this while making sure that your doctors and local hospitals are 'In-Network' for whatever plan you choose. So, if this task seems a bit much then I wholeheartedly recommend working with a licensed, CMS Certified Medicare agent.
Thank you and God bless!

Amal Sahyoun · Answer

It depends, are you happy with your current plan?  Does it meet your needs?  What is your maximum out of pocket expense (MOOP) Is your physician on the plan?

Brian Adelstein · Answer

Whether you should switch plans or stay put depends entirely on how your current plan responded to the massive Part D restructuring and federal payment changes.

Shannon Mayfield · Answer

That can only be answered by taking a look at your unique needs, the current plan you are on, and comparing it to what else is available in your area. No one should be answering this question for you without first asking several questions to understand your needs.

Answered by Shannon Mayfield on May 19, 2025

Broker Licensed in ID

Answered by Shannon Mayfield Medicare Insurance Agent

Cindy Hoppe · Answer

You always want to review yearly. You never know if a carrier will be discontinuing your plan, changing benefits within your plan, your carriers may even change networks. So it is wise to have an agent to review each year so you have what you want year after year. You deserve it.

Answered by Cindy Hoppe on April 14, 2026

Broker Licensed in AZ, CA, IA & 8 other states

Answered by Cindy Hoppe Medicare Insurance Agent

Aaron Lewis · Answer

With the changes in 2025 People should not make any changes at this time. I recommend waiting till the Annual Enrollment Period to see how plans will change for 2026. The Annual Enrollment period is from Oct, 15th to Dec.,7th. This is the time you can decide if you would like to make a plan change for 2026.

Answered by Aaron Lewis on May 30, 2025

Agent Licensed in NJ

Answered by Aaron Lewis Medicare Insurance Agent

Morgan Luck · Answer

Depends on what you have. Do you have a medicare advantage plan or a medicare supplement , plan G or N ?

Tatevik Melkonyan · Answer

It's definitely a smart time to review your plan, but whether you switch or stay depends on your current setup, health needs, and costs.

Barb Koch · Answer

That is a great question at this time with all the information coming out. Depending on what your needs are would determine which plan would best fit your needs. We are not allowed to discuss plans until AEP October 1st for the 2026 year. Feel free to contact a trusted broker for more information :)

Answered by Barb Koch on September 26, 2025

Agent Licensed in MO

Answered by Barb Koch Medicare Insurance Agent

Alaina Frederick · Answer

It all depends on your Provider networks and your medication cost. Plans and Providers negotiate contracts each year. Also, Plans and Pharmacy negotiate cost as well. Sometimes your Plan has a medication in a Tier 1 or 2 . Sometimes that same medication bumps up a Tier or completely comes off the list off covered medications. Each year you should review with a Broker.

Answered by Alaina Frederick on August 1, 2025

Agent Licensed in MO, AZ, IA & KS

Answered by Alaina Frederick Medicare Insurance Agent

Elisa Forte · Answer

It really depends on your medical needs. Is your plan working for you? Are your prescriptions covered? That’s why Medicare allows us an annual enrollment period .Things change, so you wanna to see what your options are in regards to what your needs are now, not when you first signed up to the plan you’re on.

Answered by Elisa Forte on October 18, 2025

Agent Licensed in NY, FL & OH

Answered by Elisa Forte Medicare Insurance Agent

Edward Carpenter · Answer

As with so many questions, the answer is- it depends. There is currently an Open Enrollment period from January 1-March 31, 2026 where you may change your Medicare Advantage Plan 1 time if you wish. Because of all the changes, many plans from previous years are "grandfathered in", for you to keep your current Plan if you find it better, than the plans with 2026 changes. My Specialist co-pay went up $30, so I changed mine for 2026. Some plans have Part B givebacks, where they give back some of the Part B premium they take out of your Social Security check, that may not have been available in previous years. (this can end up being over $2,000+ per year back in your pocket!) Many of my clients are in plans with lower co-pays, so when they asked if they should change, I told them to stay put. It's always a math vs benefits calculation across all the companies available in your area, and pays to revisit these comparisons every year. A skilled Agent can do this for you in minimal time.

Answered by Edward Carpenter on March 2, 2026

Broker Licensed in FL

Answered by Edward Carpenter Medicare Insurance Agent

Mark Rich · Answer

Here is a situation that illustrates why every Medicare beneficiary should have a relationship with a local agent!  Your local Medicare Health Insurance agent can assess your needs and determine whether you are already in the best plan or if a better one may be available.  Plan options indeed change every year.  Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug plans are issued on a calendar year basis, so the Annual Election Period (AEP) that runs between October 15th and December 7th every year is an opportune time to revisit your plan with your local agent to make sure you are in the correct plan for your individual needs for the upcoming plan year.

Rebecca Bilbrey · Answer

Every individual has their own situation. Some people will need to change while others will not. Talking with an agent will help you figure that out.

Mario Davis · Answer

It really depends on your personal needs and priorities. Every Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) brings changes, some positive, some not so much. The key is to make sure your plan still works for you. For some, the focus is keeping costs low. Others want to make sure their doctors stay in-network or that they can see any specialist without referrals. For many, prescription coverage is top priority. Whether you stay where you are or make a switch should come down to what matters most to you, and if you have any questions, I’d be happy to help you compare your options and decide.