Medicare Open Enrollment 2026: What New Yorkers Should Review Before Choosing 2027 Coverage

Medicare Open Enrollment begins October 15 and ends December 7, 2026. During this period, people with Medicare can review their coverage and, if they choose, make changes that take effect January 1, 2027. The right choice depends on your doctors, prescriptions, health needs, and costs—not just a plan’s monthly premium.

Start with the notice from your current plan

If you have a Medicare health or drug plan, look for its Annual Notice of Change. Plans send this notice in September to explain changes to coverage and costs for the coming year. If you have not received it, contact your plan.

As you review your options, make a list of the care you actually use:

• Doctors and specialists: Are they in the plan’s network for 2027?
• Prescriptions: Are your medications covered, and what will they cost at your pharmacy?
• Ongoing treatment: Check the rules for therapy, behavioral health care, medical equipment, and other services you rely on.
• Total costs: Compare premiums alongside deductibles, copayments, and other out-of-pocket costs.

Confirm details directly with the plan and your providers before making a change. A familiar plan name does not guarantee that every doctor, drug, or cost will stay the same next year.

What changes can you make?

During Open Enrollment, you may be able to switch Medicare Advantage plans, change a Medicare drug plan, or switch between Medicare Advantage and Original Medicare. Your options depend on the coverage you have now. If you leave Medicare Advantage for Original Medicare, consider whether you need a separate drug plan and whether you can obtain a Medicare Supplement policy; there are limits on when you can buy one.

If you also have Medicaid or receive home care

Tell any plan representative that you have both Medicare and Medicaid before changing coverage. Ask how the change would affect your doctors, prescriptions, care coordination, and existing home care arrangements.

Medicare’s fall Open Enrollment is a Medicare plan enrollment period. It is not the deadline for applying for New York Medicaid or the general rule for changing a Medicaid managed long-term care plan. Some people with Medicaid also qualify for special Medicare enrollment opportunities at other times of year.

If you receive personal care, home health aide services, or other long-term support, check with your Medicaid plan or care manager before making a Medicare plan change. Ask who will arrange each service in 2027 and whether your current providers participate.

The best first step is simple: Gather your plan notice, medication list, provider names, and insurance cards. A careful review now can help you avoid surprises when new coverage begins in January.

This article is general information. Eligibility, enrollment rights, provider networks, and covered services depend on your circumstances and plan.