Medicare Open Enrollment 2027 Essential Updates

Confused about Medicare changes for 2027? Discover the latest enrollment tips, cost shifts, and plan insights here.

Open enrollment for Medicare is 10/1/26 through 12/7/26, and with rising costs, shifting plan options, and potential pitfalls, it’s more important than ever for adults turning 65 and over 65 to stay informed.

Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson welcome back Josh Kinzel from Seniority Benefit Group to break down what’s new and what to watch out for in the 2026–2027 enrollment period.

You’ll learn:

• A clear, jargon-free explanation of Medicare, Medigap, Advantage, and Part D prescription plans, and how their coverage and costs may change
• The most significant shifts for 2027, including fewer available Part D and Advantage plans, premium increases, and drug price negotiations
• How to assess your personal healthcare needs, risk tolerance, and avoid surprises with plan coverage or provider networks
• Real-world scenarios of plan mistakes, like employer coverage, COBRA pitfalls, and why spouses may need different plans
• Actionable advice to avoid scams, telemarketing traps, and misleading plan marketing

Whether you’re enrolling for the first time, updating your coverage, or supporting loved ones through the process, this episode arms you with the language, questions, and resources to make a smart, confident Medicare decision.

Key Takeaways:

• Do your homework: Know the differences between Medicare, Medigap, and Advantage, and how upcoming changes affect your options
• Part D plan choices are shrinking and premiums are rising; check for newly negotiated drug prices
• Don’t assume the cheapest or employer-offered plan is best. Evaluate for your health, risk tolerance, and provider preferences
• Beware of scams, even “official” calls, emails, and flex card offers can be fraudulent
• Use trusted, local resources for Medicare advice; never hesitate to ask questions before choosing or changing plans

If you like this episode, please let us know. We appreciate the feed back, and your support of offset costs of producing the podcast!

5 Frequently Asked Questions about Medicare Open Enrollment

1. When is Medicare open enrollment for 2027? Open enrollment runs from October 15th to December 7th for Medicare plans covering 2027.
2. What are the biggest changes to Medicare Advantage and Part D plans for 2027? Fewer plans will be available, premiums and Part D costs may rise, some extra benefits are being reduced, and more drugs have negotiated prices.
3. How can I avoid Medicare scams during open enrollment? Remember, Medicare will not call you unsolicited. Never give out your Medicare number over the phone, verify all sources, and beware of “flex card” offers or calls requesting payment for new cards.
4. Should my spouse and I enroll in the same Medicare plan? Not necessarily; spouses may have different healthcare needs, risk tolerances, or provider preferences, so evaluate plans individually.
5. Is COBRA considered credible coverage to delay Medicare enrollment? No, COBRA is not recognized as credible coverage by Medicare, so relying on COBRA can result in penalties if you delay Medicare enrollment past eligibility.

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

The views and opinions expressed by the experts interviewed on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the podcast hosts or any affiliated organizations. The information provided in these interviews is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified professionals for specific advice or information related to their individual circumstances. The podcast host and producers do not endorse or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information provided by the experts interviewed. Listener discretion is advised.

Mentioned in this episode:

This episode was recorded at Brick House Blue Brick House Blue at TruePointe in Hilliard

Book at tour today! https://www.brickhouseblue.com/contact-us/?goTo=book-a-tour

Brick House Blue Hilliard