Every year, the Medicare Open Enrollment Period gives beneficiaries a valuable opportunity to review, adjust, or completely change their healthcare coverage. Whether you’re considering a switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan, adjusting your prescription drug coverage, or simply ensuring your current plan still fits your needs—Open Enrollment is the time to act.
If you’re living in Oregon, especially in areas like Beaverton, understanding what you can (and should) do during this window can make a big difference in how you experience and afford your healthcare in the coming year. Many individuals choose to work with independent Medicare agents in Beaverton, OR to better evaluate their options and avoid unnecessary coverage gaps.
📍 Location Information
If you’re seeking Medicare-related guidance locally, help is available at:
Address: 15125 SW Ruby Court, Beaverton, OR
Call: +1 (503) 828-2328
Email: wmichaeljarman@gmail.com
What Is Medicare Open Enrollment?
Medicare Open Enrollment—also known as the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP). During this time, people enrolled in Medicare can:
- Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan
- Switch from one Medicare Advantage Plan to another
- Enroll in or change Medicare
- Drop Medicare Advantage and return to Original Medicare
Why Open Enrollment Matters in Beaverton
Healthcare needs can change from year to year—so can plan benefits, provider networks, and prescription drug formularies. Failing to review your options may result in higher out-of-pocket costs, coverage gaps, or lost access to your preferred doctors.
In a place like Beaverton, where several Medicare plans are available, comparing your current plan to what’s new can help you stay ahead and avoid unwelcome surprises in the upcoming year.
What You Shouldn’t Miss During Medicare Open Enrollment
✅ 1. Review Your Current Coverage
Start by looking at:
- Your Annual Notice of Change
- Your Evidence of Coverage These documents show what’s changing in your current plan—like premiums, deductibles, copays, or provider network.
If your plan is dropping a medication you take or no longer includes your doctor, this is the time to make a move.
✅ 2. Evaluate Your Prescription Drug Needs
Even if you’re satisfied with your plan, changes in the drug formulary could significantly affect your costs. During Open Enrollment, you can:
- Enroll in a Medicare Part plan if you haven’t already
- Switch to another Part D plan that better matches your current prescriptions
Prescription costs vary widely between plans—even for the same medication. Comparing formularies and preferred pharmacies can help reduce unexpected expenses.
✅ 3. Consider a Medicare Advantage Plan
Medicare Advantage offers bundled coverage that includes:
- All benefits from Parts A and B
- Often includes Part D prescription coverage
- May provide vision, dental, hearing, and wellness benefits
But these plans come with provider networks, which may limit your choice of doctors. That’s why it’s essential to confirm if your preferred providers are included in the plan you’re considering.
✅ 4. Don’t Assume Last Year’s Plan Is Still the Best
Healthcare plans change. So does your health. A plan that worked well this year may become expensive or inadequate next year. Even if you’re happy with your current coverage, taking a few minutes to explore your options can help avoid regret.
In fact, many individuals in Oregon consult with independent Medicare advisors in Beaverton during this window to ensure they’re not missing hidden costs or benefits.
✅ 5. Watch Out for Misleading Advertising or Pressure Tactics
During AEP, many seniors are flooded with advertisements from insurance companies promising low premiums or “extra benefits.” Be cautious of:
- One-size-fits-all pitches
- Limited-time offers
- Aggressive sales calls
The right plan depends on your unique needs—not just flashy marketing.
📍 Need Help Navigating Options?
Sometimes, sorting through plan details can be overwhelming. In such cases, it helps to speak with someone who understands Oregon’s Medicare landscape and can offer unbiased, helpful insights.
15125 SW Ruby Court, Beaverton, OR
📞 Call: +1 (503) 828-2328
📧 Email: wmichaeljarman@gmail.com
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What happens if I don’t make any changes during Open Enrollment?
If you don’t make any changes, your current plan will automatically renew for the next year—but that doesn’t mean it will stay the same. Premiums, benefits, and coverage networks may change.
2. Can I change Medigap (Supplement) Plans during Open Enrollment?
No. Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans do not fall under this Open Enrollment window. You can apply for a Medigap plan anytime, but acceptance depends on medical underwriting unless you’re in your one-time 6-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period or qualifying for a guaranteed issue right.
3. How do I compare plans in my area?
You can compare plans using the Medicare Plan Finder tool or by consulting local, independent advisors in Beaverton who understand your local options and networks.
