ANNUAL ENROLLMENT DEADLINE: DECEMBER 7, 2026
Understand Your Options. Compare Your Coverage. Make Informed Decisions.
An Annual Enrollment Guide for Alameda County Residents
From Oakland and San Leandro to Hayward, Fremont, and Berkeley, many of our neighbors rely on Medicare to manage their healthcare.
As we prepare for 2027, now is the time to ask a few key questions: Are your doctors still in-network? Are your prescriptions covered? Have your premiums or out-of-pocket costs changed? Are you receiving the benefits you need?
You have until December 7, 2026, to make eligible changes during the Annual Enrollment Period. Most
changes take effect on January 1, 2027.
1. Medicare Advantage: Look Beyond the Premium
Medicare Advantage plans may offer medical and prescription coverage, along with additional benefits such as dental, vision, and hearing. Some plans have $0 monthly premiums, but that doesn't mean all healthcare services are free.
Before choosing a plan, check:
- Monthly premiums, copayments, and deductibles
- Annual out-of-pocket maximum
- Doctor, specialist, and hospital networks
- Prescription drug coverage and costs
- Dental, vision, and hearing benefits
Compare the total cost and coverage—not just the premium.
2. Make Sure Your Doctors Are Covered
Your relationship with your primary care physician matters. Before enrolling, confirm that your doctor,
specialists, preferred hospitals, and pharmacies are in the network for the specific 2027 plan you're considering.
Don't assume that a doctor who accepts one plan from an insurer accepts all of its plans. Verify directly with the plan and your provider's office.
3. Consider Medicare Supplement Insurance
Medicare Supplement Insurance, or Medigap, helps cover certain out-of-pocket costs under Original Medicare, depending on the policy. Original Medicare generally allows you to see any provider nationwide who accepts Medicare and is accepting new patients. However, Medigap requires a separate premium, and you’ll typically need a separate Part D plan for prescription drug coverage.
Important: You may not automatically qualify for a Medigap policy if you leave Medicare Advantage. Review
your enrollment rights and potential costs before switching.
4. Review Your Prescription Drug Coverage
Prescription costs can add up. Review your medications each year, even if you keep your current plan.
Check whether:
- All your medications are covered
- Your preferred pharmacy is in-network
- Your copayments and deductible have changed
- Prior authorization or other restrictions apply
A plan with a lower premium may not be the least expensive option once you include your medications.
5. Why Medicare Plans Can Change
Insurance companies may change plan benefits, provider networks, premiums, and prescription coverage, or discontinue certain plans.
Review your Annual Notice of Change and compare your 2027 options. Don't assume your current plan will
provide the same coverage next year.
What If You Need to Change Plans After December 7?
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period
January 1 – March 31, 2027
If you're already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you generally have another opportunity during this
period to make one change. You can switch to a different Medicare Advantage plan or return to Original
Medicare and enroll in a separate Part D plan. This isn’t a second enrollment period for everyone. Special rules apply, and returning to Original Medicare may raise questions about Medigap eligibility and costs.
Whenever possible, it's best to review your options before the December 7 deadline.
How Can a Medicare Broker Help?
Choosing a Medicare plan can be confusing. A licensed broker can help you compare plans, review provider networks, evaluate prescription costs, and understand coverage differences.
Ask which insurance companies and plans the broker represents.
You can also get free, unbiased Medicare counseling through California's Health Insurance Counseling and
Advocacy Program (HICAP) and Medicare.Gov.
DON'T MISS THE DEADLINE!
DECEMBER 7, 2026
Take time now to review your Medicare coverage for 2027. A little preparation today can help you avoid
surprises tomorrow.
COMPARE • UNDERSTAND • CHOOSE • ENROLL
Educational information only. Plan benefits, costs, provider networks, and drug coverage vary. Verify plan
details before enrolling. This newsletter does not guarantee coverage or recommend a specific plan for every beneficiary. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE (TTY users should call 1-877-486 2048), or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.