Overview
- Open enrollment is fully operational during the federal shutdown, though callers may face longer wait times for assistance, officials said.
- Dr. Mehmet Oz says Part B costs may rise while Part D drug expenses and many Medicare Advantage premiums are trending lower in some markets.
- CMS urges beneficiaries to use Medicare.gov’s Plan Finder or call 1-800-MEDICARE to verify doctors and prescriptions and to finalize any changes by Dec. 7.
- Experts warn that insurer pullbacks and network changes could leave some enrollees with reduced coverage next year if they allow plans to auto-renew without review.
- Policy changes include a $2,100 annual cap on Part D out-of-pocket costs for 2026 coverage, Medicare drug-price negotiations starting next year, and a prior-authorization pilot for certain surgeries in six states beginning January 2026.