Medicare's Annual Open Enrollment: Review your coverage before Dec. 7

Amalia Chandley.

Medicare's Annual Open Enrollment period, running through Dec. 7, is your yearly opportunity to review your healthcare coverage. Even if your current plan seems to be working well, this year's enrollment is especially important due to upcoming changes that could impact your costs and coverage.

Key change starting in 2025: Beginning in 2025, Medicare Part D plans will introduce a $2,000 annual cap on out-of-pocket expenses for covered prescription drugs. This long-awaited improvement will make medications more affordable for many beneficiaries. However, it's expected to influence plan costs, coverage limits and formularies across both Part D and Medicare Advantage plans. This makes 2024's Open Enrollment a crucial time to ensure your plan will still be the best fit moving forward.

As someone who works directly with Medicare beneficiaries here in Tehachapi, I understand how complicated Medicare decisions can be. The variety of plans and changes each year can feel overwhelming. But having a trusted local resource makes navigating the system much easier. Unlike distant call centers, I provide personalized guidance tailored to each individual's needs.

What you can do during open enrollment: Open Enrollment allows you to make key changes to your Medicare coverage. You can switch prescription drug plans, update your Medicare Advantage plan or enroll in one for the first time. Changes made during this period will take effect on Jan. 1, so it's vital to act before the Dec. 7 deadline.

Help your friends and neighbors: If you have friends or neighbors who might also benefit from reviewing their Medicare options, please share this information with them. A quick conversation could help them avoid costly mistakes and ensure they have the right coverage for their needs.

We're here to help: At Central Health Access Assisters (CHAA), conveniently located next to Rite Aid, we're here to help our community make informed decisions about Medicare. Don't let uncertainty hold you back - whether you need a plan review, advice or answers to your questions, we're just a call or visit away.

Remember, this is your chance to lock in the best coverage for the coming year and beyond. Reach out today, we'd be honored to help.

Amalia Chandley is the Founder and Executive Director of Central Health Access Assisters.