Medicare enrollment opens for 200,000 Treasure Coast residents

TREASURE COAST - Florida Blue Medicare, part of GuideWell, a mission-driven, not-for-profit mutual holding company serving the needs of thousands of Floridians, has released its offerings for the 2026 Annual Enrollment Period (AEP). The plans provide consumers with a variety of options offering flexibility, affordability and quality care.

During AEP, which runs from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7, Medicare-eligible individuals can choose a Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement, or Medicare Prescription Drug Plan for coverage effective Jan. 1, 2026.

This is particularly important in Florida, which has the second-largest population of older adults in the nation, with one in five Floridians aged 65 and older.

This year, Florida Blue Medicare is offering:

· Indian River County: 2 Medicare Advantage plans, both available for a $0 monthly plan premium.

· St. Lucie County: 5 Medicare Advantage plans, including 4 options available for a $0 monthly plan premium.

· Martin County: 3 Medicare Advantage plans, all with a $0 monthly plan premium.

· Okeechobee County: 2 Medicare Advantage plans, including 1 with a $0 monthly plan premium.

Florida Blue Medicare is also offering a Medicare Advantage plan designed for veterans. Approximately 692,000 veterans over age 65 live in Florida, according to the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs. The Blue Medicare Patriot PPO plan provides members with $75 toward their monthly Medicare Part B premium and helps veterans save money by not including Part D prescription drug coverage, which many receive through Veterans Affairs.

“Millions of Floridians will select annual Medicare health care benefits this year. Choosing the right health coverage can be complex and overwhelming, especially if you’re new to Medicare,” said Alisha Pieraccini, senior vice president for Florida Blue Medicare. “Every year, we provide solutions to meet the evolving health care needs of our members by investing in benefits and services that deliver real value - like care management - because our goal is supporting overall health and quality of life.”

More than one in five Floridians are enrolled in Medicare, and more than half of those beneficiaries choose Medicare Advantage plans. Florida Blue Medicare offers a range of plans with comprehensive benefits and value-added perks, including:

· Vision, dental and hearing benefits; · A network of providers committed to quality and affordability;

· Personalized condition management and guidance;

· Providing coaching and support from a team of nurses for members with complex injuries or chronic illnesses.

· Pharmacy concierge services, including Medication Therapy Management and Adherence programs to help members get the best results from their prescriptions.

HealthyBlue Rewards: Members can earn up to $100 in rewards for taking care of their health.

SilverSneakers® Fitness Program: Access to in-person and virtual classes, plus workshops.

Blue365 Savings: A free health and wellness discount program offering up to 50% off fitness gear, healthy eating options, prescription eyeglasses and more.

“Medicare beneficiaries are likely to see significant changes in 2026,” said David Wagner, Florida Blue market president for South Florida. “We want to make sure Medicare-eligible residents across South Florida have the information they need to make informed decisions about their health care options. We know these changes can be overwhelming, and we’re here to help. That’s why this year, especially, it’s essential to carefully review your options during AEP and talk to a licensed agent if you have questions.”

To learn more about AEP and Medicare options offered by Florida Blue Medicare, visit FloridaBlue.com/Medicare or stop by a local Florida Blue Center.