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NEWS
Preparing for Medicare AEP
In preparation of Medicare AEP next month, here are a few things you can start to think about. During this time, Oct. 15 – Dec. 7, you are able to (1) leave a Medicare Advantage (MA) Plan and possibly go to a Medicare Supplement instead, (2) switch to a different MA Plan, or
(3) change/add a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan. If you decide to make a change, the new plan will be effective Jan. 1.
In 2026, we saw a shift in the way MA plans offered coverage. Many of the plans reduced the added benefits which includes Dental and Vision coverage, OTC benefits, or the grocery benefit.
Many of the MA plans also increased their out-of-pocket limits and copays in the plan. If you experienced this shift, be sure to keep your eyes on any plan changes for 2027. The changes will not publish until Oct. 1 but MA plan members will receive their Annual Notice of Changes soon.
If you have thought about changing from a MA plan to a Medicare Supplement/Medigap plan, this is the time to investigate that option as well. You will have to answer a list of medical underwriting questions to be accepted in the Medigap plan. If you have a medical need that requires ongoing medical treatment, you will likely not be able to enroll in a Medigap plan. Also, if you have any recent major medical events such as cancer, stroke, heart conditions, kidney problems, liver issues, or chronic breathing problems, you will not be able to make the switch.
There are certain loopholes in Medicare that do allow you to switch from a MA plan to a Medigap without underwriting. For example, if you move outside of your MA plan’s service area, or if your MA plan leaves the area, you will have a Guaranteed Issue right into a Medicare Supplement. There are many others so never hesitate to ask.
I always recommend checking your plan’s new coverage to be sure it will be beneficial for you the following year. It can be as simple as a quick phone call or email to your Medicare Insurance agent. If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact us and schedule a time to chat. 720-665-6015 call/text
Publisher's Letter
Dawa Sherpa, Publisher
Let the sun shine, the fireworks sparkle, and the flags wave!
As we celebrate our 250th year of independence and the freeedom that it affords, The Brighton Buzz is proud to continue its partnership with the local businesses/ organizations we serve. For 21 years we have offered products, services, and opportunities to enhance our readers’ lives.
We hope you are enjoying or soon embarking on a well-deserved vacation, working on projects that aren’t impossible to finish, or just soaking in the summer weather with the many outside activities Colorado has to offer.
Whatever the case, we wish you the best during these fleeting summer days and hope that you can create some experiences to remember. If you’re looking for something unique, check out our back cover for upcoming events in the Brighton area.
And, as we head into our twenty-first year, we strive to continue servicing our community and look forward to bringing you all that Brighton, Fort Lupton, Henderson, Commerce City (Reunion area), Lochbuie, Hudson and Keenesburg have to offer.
