What to know about changes to Medicare as open enrollment begins
Summary
Medicare open enrollment began and ends on December 7, 2026. Some Medicare Advantage plans are being reduced, and many people may need to select new plans. Also, a key subsidy program for lowering prescription drug costs is ending, which may cause higher drug premiums for many seniors.Key Facts
- Medicare open enrollment runs through December 7, 2026.
- Medicare Advantage plans, which are private insurance options, are being reduced from 39 plans in 2026 to 35 plans in 2027.
- About 35 million people use Medicare Advantage plans.
- Some counties will no longer have Medicare Advantage prescription drug plans available; the number of affected counties increased from 123 to 193.
- The Trump administration ended a temporary subsidy program that helped keep prescription drug costs lower for Medicare Part D users.
- Without the subsidy, drug plan premiums are expected to rise for about half of Medicare Part D enrollees in 2027.
- The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services said 2027 drug prices will remain generally stable, but premium changes depend on individual plans.
- Medicare Part D provides prescription drug coverage to millions of older and disabled people.
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