Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment: What You Can and Can’t Do

Posted by Robert Fink, CLU
Estimated Reading Time 1 minute 38 seconds

If you’re enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, the start of the year brings an important opportunity to make changes if your current coverage is not meeting your needs. Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment runs every year from January 1 through March 31, and it comes with very specific rules about what beneficiaries can and cannot do during this time.

Understanding these guidelines can help you avoid missed opportunities or unintended gaps in coverage.

What You Can Do During Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment

During this period, beneficiaries who are already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan have a one-time chance to make certain changes. You may switch from one Medicare Advantage plan to another Medicare Advantage plan. This includes changing to a plan with different provider networks, drug coverage, and monthly costs.

You may also choose to leave your Medicare Advantage plan entirely and return to Original Medicare Part A and Part B. If you take this option, you are allowed to enroll in a standalone Medicare Part D prescription drug plan to help cover your medication costs.

These changes take effect on the first day of the month after the plan receives your request, making this a relatively quick way to adjust coverage that is not working as expected.

What You Cannot Do During This Period

Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment is not the same as the Annual Election Period in the fall. You cannot use this window to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan if you’re currently on Original Medicare and were not already enrolled in Medicare Advantage.

You also cannot make multiple plan changes. Beneficiaries are limited to one change during this period, so it is important to review options carefully before making a decision.

In addition, you cannot add or switch Medicare Supplement plans during this time unless you qualify for a separate special enrollment right.

Why This Review Matters

Many beneficiaries realize after the new year begins that their plan’s network is too limited, their medications cost more than expected, or their out-of-pocket expenses are higher than anticipated. Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment is designed to give you a second chance to course correct.

If you have questions about your coverage or are considering a change, we can make the process clearer and ensure you choose a plan that truly fits your healthcare needs.