Overview

• Open enrollment runs Oct. 15 to Dec. 7, giving beneficiaries a window to switch between Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and Part D coverage for 2026.
• Insurers are scaling back Medicare Advantage offerings for next year, with fewer plans, narrower provider networks, and higher premiums and cost-sharing in many areas.
• Medicare Part B premiums are projected to reach about $206.50 in 2026, and Part D plans may raise premiums by up to $50, with some zero-premium options offset by higher deductibles and tier changes.
• Network disruptions are already evident, including the UnitedHealthcare–Johns Hopkins split that leaves most Hopkins providers out of network for UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage members.
• Experts urge beneficiaries to confirm drug formularies and provider participation, use Medicare.gov’s Plan Finder or SHIP counselors, consider Medigap if a plan exits, and note that core enrollment services continue during the federal shutdown though help lines may be slower.