Note: This Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period does NOT apply to those who obtain their health insurance plans through the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) of the Washington Health Care Authority. This ONLY applies to those who obtain Medicare Advantage health plans through the open market.
A gentle reminder for those currently enrolled in a Medicare Advantage (MA) plan to review your coverage during the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period, which runs through March 31, 2026.
During this period, individuals enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan may:
- Switch to another Medicare Advantage plan, with or without prescription drug coverage; or
- Return to Original Medicare and, if needed, enroll in a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan.
It’s good practice for all Medicare Advantage enrollees to review your coverage to ensure it meets your health and financial needs. This MA Open Enrollment Period is an opportunity to manage Medicare costs and make changes if you’re dissatisfied with your current plan.
The landscape of Medicare Advantage (MA) is changing in 2026. A number of large healthcare systems across the country have recently decided to terminate their MA contracts, which will leave many MA enrollees with fewer options for care. The decline in MA options and providers means fewer options for beneficiaries enrolled in MA, who may now need to travel farther or find new providers to receive care. If a beneficiary enrolled in an MA Plan finds it no longer fits their needs, they can choose a new plan during the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period.
Any changes made will take effect on the first day of the month after the new plan receives your enrollment request. Those returning to Original Medicare should note that they may not be able to purchase a Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) policy.
Do you have health care coverage questions or concerns? Contact the Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA) for assistance. Get free, unbiased Medicare help from the Washington SHIBA program. Call the Insurance Consumer Hotline at 800-562-6900 and ask to be connected with your local SHIBA office, or visit the SHIBA website here. Find Medicare counseling and events in your area here.
Also, here is a link to Medicare.gov’s Understanding Medicare Advantage Plans online booklet, available for download or printing – https://www.medicare.gov/publications/12026-understanding-medicare-advantage-plans.pdf
Be sure to visit our Healthcare Resources page for more information about Traditional Medicare and Medicare Advantage.