If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, one of the most important pieces of mail you receive each year is your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC).
Don’t throw it away or assume your Medicare Advantage plan will be exactly the same in 2027 just because you’re happy with it today.
Medicare says the ANOC explains changes to your plan’s coverage, costs, and other features that will take effect in January. Plans send this notice each fall, and Medicare recommends reviewing the changes to determine whether your current plan will continue to meet your needs. Medicare
What Is a Medicare Annual Notice of Change?
The Annual Notice of Change, commonly called the ANOC, is a document sent by your Medicare plan explaining what will change for the upcoming year.
Think of it as your opportunity to compare this year’s plan with next year’s plan before deciding whether keeping your current coverage makes sense.
According to Medicare, the ANOC includes changes in coverage, costs, and other plan provisions that become effective in January. Medicare
What Should You Review in Your ANOC?
Don’t look only at the monthly premium. A Medicare Advantage plan can change in several ways from one year to the next.
Pay particular attention to:
- Monthly premiums
- Deductibles
- Copays and coinsurance
- Prescription drug coverage and costs
- Drug formularies
- Pharmacy networks
- Doctor and hospital networks
- Dental, vision and hearing benefits
- Over-the-counter and other supplemental benefits
- Other coverage rules and plan benefits
The key question isn’t simply, “Do I like my current Medicare plan?”
It’s: “Will this plan still meet my healthcare and prescription needs next year?”
Don’t Assume Your Medicare Advantage Plan Is Staying the Same
This is where many Medicare beneficiaries can make a mistake.
You may have had the same Medicare Advantage plan for several years. Your doctors may be in-network today. Your prescriptions may be covered at an affordable cost today. Your copays and benefits may work well for you today.
But Medicare Advantage plans can make changes from year to year. Medicare specifically notes that plans may change coverage, costs, service areas, and more. Medicare
That’s why an annual Medicare review can be worthwhile even when you aren’t experiencing problems with your current coverage.
When Is Medicare Open Enrollment for 2027 Coverage?
The annual Medicare Open Enrollment Period runs October 15 through December 7.
During this period, Medicare beneficiaries can make certain changes, including switching Medicare Advantage plans, moving between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage, or changing Medicare drug coverage. Changes made during this period generally take effect January 1. Medicare
Receiving your ANOC gives you an opportunity to understand your current plan’s upcoming changes before deciding whether you want to explore other options.
Medicare Planning Is About More Than Finding the Lowest Premium
A $0 or low-premium Medicare Advantage plan isn’t automatically the right plan for everyone.
Your decision can involve your doctors, specialists, hospitals, prescriptions, pharmacies, expected healthcare use, copays, maximum out-of-pocket exposure and additional benefits.
That’s why comparing Medicare plans should be based on your individual situation, rather than simply choosing the plan with the lowest advertised premium or the most extra benefits.
Need Help Reviewing Your Medicare Advantage ANOC?
If you live in DuBois, Altoona, Clearfield, Brookville, Punxsutawney or surrounding Pennsylvania communities, I can help you review your Medicare coverage and understand the changes outlined in your Annual Notice of Change.
Joe Zappia, CMIP®
Licensed Medicare Insurance Agent & Broker
20+ Years Helping Medicare Clients
Venn Financial Solutions
Appointments are available in person or by Zoom.
Bring your Annual Notice of Change, medication list, preferred pharmacies, and information about the doctors and healthcare providers you want to continue using. We can review your situation and discuss available Medicare options.
Don’t automatically renew without reviewing what is changing for 2027.
Medicare Disclaimer:
We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently, we represent 8 organizations which offer 61 products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.
