Open Enrollment Season for Medicare

Protect Your Health

It’s the most wonderful time of the year – Medicare Open Enrollment! This can be a confusing time for older adults between October 15^th to December 7^th that may be filled with misleading commercials, scam-like calls increasing, and lots of questions from older adults. To help make this time a bit easier for you, we’ve gathered some common questions and resources to help you navigate this period. 

What is Open Enrollment?

Open-Enrollment is a time that people who are already enrolled Medicare can make changes to their existing coverage – whether it’s Original Medicare, a Medicare Advantage plan, or supplemental drug plan. As long as you already have Medicare, you are free to use this time to find a plan that works best.

Who can’t use this Open-Enrollment Period?

If you’re looking to make changes to your Medigap plan. You can apply for a new Medigap plan, but eligibility after the initial enrollment period is determined by each individual insurance plan. Additionally, if you did not enroll in Part B when first eligible for Medicare, you cannot use this period of if you have to pay a premium for Part A. You can use the General Enrollment Period between January 1^st and March 31^st to enroll for Medicare coverage.

I don’t want to change my plan. why should I care?

Just as patients can switch Medicare plans, Medicare Advantage plans can change their coverage as well. It is always a good idea to review Annual Notice of Change/Evidence of Coverage statements that come from your plan provider. If you are looking to save money in general, this period can be a great time to shop around to see if another plan can fit your needs for a more affordable price. This is also a good time to re-evaluate if anything major has changed in the past year, that may warrant increased or decreased coverage.

I made a mistake choosing my coverage! Now what? If you’re not content with the Medicare Advantage Plan you choose during the fall period, you can change your plan during the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period from January 1^st to March 31^st. Additionally, you can change your mind however many times you like during the period. The last plan that you’re registered for on December 7^th is the plan that go into effect on January 1^st.

This is overwhelming. Who can I turn to for help?

Missouri CLAIM provides free, unbiased counseling and education to all Missouri Medicare beneficiaries. You can speak with a trained volunteer to help you navigate the process by calling 800-390-3330. Additionally, you can reach out to your current plan manager if you have any questions regarding changes to your current plan.

Information Courtesy of Medicare.Gov and MedicareResources.Org

Have Medicare Questions? Contact Aging Ahead  at

St. Louis County 636-207-0847

St. Charles County 636-579-0555

Franklin County 636-629-3143

Jefferson County 636-253-0558