It's a challenge to keep up with everything that changes regularly. ATM banking screen selections, checking out at department and grocery stores. And don't even get me started on all the computer and phone applications that get improved in an almost unending parade of upgrades. How you deal with all this constant flow of stuff makes you...you!
We recently took a plane trip, and the check-in process differed completely from just a few months ago. We always print a hard copy of boarding passes before leaving home just in case the "system is down" once we get to the airport. I even prepaid the luggage fee to avoid any possibility of a hassle. And you guessed it. The check-in clerk needed help finding our reservation in the system. But because we were prepared for travel 'glitches' with our paper reservation, the clerk could miraculously confirm us on the computer! Imagine that!
At our office, we are used to handling changes every year. What do you think all the Medicare insurance companies do yearly to folks who don't like change? CHANGE!
Every year my clients say, "My doctors didn't change, my prescription medications didn't change, why do I need to review my Medicare plans every year during the Annual Election Period (AEP)?" Because the plans change! Are your doctors still in the network? Has the deductible increased? Are the co-pays different? What about the monthly premium? Up, down, or the same?
You, our clients, will soon receive an email request to provide pertinent information about your doctors and medications. Please take the time to respond. It could be a pleasant "change" for the better.
By David Edge
David Edge is a retirement lifestyle writer and contributor to the ARA monthly newsletter. His articles blend personal stories with practical insights on living well in retirement.
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Easy Eddie's Take
David's absolutely right about Medicare plans changing every year, and here's what that means for you in 2026. The Medicare Annual Open Enrollment Period runs from October 15th through December 7th, and during this time, Medicare Advantage plans and Part D prescription drug plans can change their networks, formularies, deductibles, and premiums. What worked great for you in 2025 might not be the best option anymore.
A lot of people ask me, "What exactly changes in my Medicare plan each year?" Well, your Medicare Advantage plan might drop specialists from its network, your Part D plan could move your medications to a higher tier with bigger copays, or your monthly premium might jump significantly. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services allows these changes, which is exactly why that annual review David mentions isn't just helpful, it's essential.
Think of it this way: spending 30 minutes gathering your doctor and medication information now could save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars next year. Once you have that information ready, comparing your options becomes much easier than it sounds.