Medicare open enrollment continues through Dec. 7

Medicare beneficiaries have until Dec. 7 to review their health insurance and prescription drug coverage for 2027 and decide whether changes are needed during the annual Medicare open enrollment period.

The enrollment period gives eligible individuals an opportunity to compare available plans, make changes to their coverage and determine whether their current plan will continue to meet their health care needs in the coming year.

Even beneficiaries who are satisfied with their current coverage may want to review their options. Plan details can change from year to year, including which doctors and other health care providers are in a plan's network, which prescription medications are covered and how much members pay in premiums, deductibles and other out-of-pocket expenses.

Changes made during open enrollment generally take effect Jan. 1, 2027.

Medicare beneficiaries can compare plans and review coverage options through the official Medicare website at Medicare.gov. They also can call Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) for assistance.

Those who need help understanding their options may also contact Missouri's State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), which provides free, unbiased counseling to Medicare beneficiaries. Information is available through the Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance at insurance.mo.gov.

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