NATIONWIDE— Medicare recipients are strongly encouraged to visit Medicare.gov/plan-compare to review and compare all available coverage options in their area. This annual period is critical for finding potential savings, securing better coverage, or both.
The online tool makes it easy to compare options, including Medicare Advantage plans and Part D prescription drug plans. Even beneficiaries currently satisfied with their coverage should explore their options, as new plans and cost changes occur every year.
Tips for Comparing Coverage Options
To maximize the benefits of the comparison tool, beneficiaries should take the following steps:
- Add your prescription drugs and local pharmacies to receive more accurate estimates of prescription drug costs.
- Check doctor networks to ensure that your preferred physicians are in-network for any plan under consideration.
- Search for additional benefits that can enhance daily life, such as fitness benefits or coverage for vision, hearing, and dental services.
- Verify drug coverage: Double-check that the plan covers your specific prescription drugs before finalizing enrollment.
Key Change for 2026
It is essential to check prescription drug coverage because, starting in 2026, out-of-pocket costs for covered drugs will be capped at $2,100. This cap, however, applies only to drugs covered by the specific plan chosen, making plan selection based on formulary coverage critical.
