Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period is almost here. From Oct. 15 to Dec. 7, Medicare beneficiaries will have the opportunity to change their health plans and prescription drug coverage for 2027.

While you may be satisfied with your existing coverage, every year brings new changes to Medicare. Evaluating your options annually can help you make informed coverage decisions.

Our team at UROne Benefits® helps individuals at or approaching Medicare eligibility age understand their health insurance options. During the Annual Enrollment Period, Medicare beneficiaries are often inundated with advertising, which can be overwhelming. UROne’s Medicare Team works to cut through the noise, delivering one-on-one support to help individuals understand their health insurance options.

As Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period approaches, here are a few of the biggest changes coming to the federal health insurance program in 2027.

Telehealth Extension

Congress has extended telehealth coverage under Medicare Part B for another year. Telehealth includes medical or health services rendered by a provider using audio and video communications technology. Medicare coverage for telehealth was expanded during the COVID-19 pandemic, but the rule was not made permanent. Examples of Medicare-covered telehealth services include:

• Advance care planning
• Cardiac rehabilitation services
• Caregiver training services
• Cognitive assessments
• Depression screenings
• Diabetes self-management training
• Medical nutrition therapy services
• Outpatient psychotherapy
• Pulmonary rehabilitation services
• Speech therapy

Coverage of these services will remain in effect until Dec. 31, 2027. Medicare Advantage Plans and some Original Medicare plans may offer telehealth benefits that go beyond basic coverage in Medicare Part B.

Premium Costs

Monthly premiums are projected to be $209.50 per month, according to the 2026 Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Report. Exact figures are expected to be released in November. Last year’s monthly premiums were $202.90 for Medicare Part B and $615 for the standard Medicare Part D premium deductible.

At the same time, the out-of-pocket cap for Medicare Part D plans is increasing next year, jumping from $2,100 in 2026 to $2,400 in 2027.

An Added Layer of Protection

Adding supplemental coverage can also help manage your out-of-pocket costs. Medicare does not cover everything. Without the right coverage in place, you could face significant deductibles and copayments. Ancillary coverage can offer financial protection in the event of serious health matters.

• Cancer Insurance: Provides financial support during cancer treatment that goes beyond your primary health insurance
• Final Expense Insurance: Helps with expenses related to funerals and other final expenses
• Hospital Indemnity Insurance: Helps cover costs associated with hospital stays, reducing the burden of medical bills

With costs rising, the Annual Enrollment Period is a good opportunity for Medicare beneficiaries to review their options. Individuals currently covered under Medicare Part D or those who purchase supplemental policies may find that a Medicare Advantage plan is a better fit for their needs.

Unlike Original Medicare (Parts A and B), many Medicare Advantage plans include prescription drug coverage. These plans, offered by private insurers, cover the same services as Original Medicare and often include extra benefits, such as dental, hearing, and vision.

Many Medicare Advantage plans have a $0 premium, but you may continue to pay your Part B premium. Your options will depend on your geographic location.

Supporting You Through Medicare’s Annual Enrollment

Navigating the Medicare landscape can be overwhelming. The UROne Medicare Team is here to answer your questions and help you understand your options.

Our services come at no cost to you. Our goal is to help you find the right health insurance for your needs. Let us make the Annual Enrollment Period easier by breaking down the complexities of Medicare, complete the form below to connect with our team.