February Is the Most Important Month for Medicare Advantage Changes — Here’s Why
If there’s one thing I remind my clients every February, it’s this: now is not the time to wait when it comes to your Medicare coverage.
February sits right in the heart of the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period, which runs from January 1 through March 31. This window gives you a valuable opportunity to make changes if your current Medicare Advantage plan isn’t working the way you expected.
I often hear from people who enrolled during the Annual Enrollment Period in the fall, only to realize in January or February that their doctors are no longer in network, prescriptions cost more than expected, or benefits don’t line up with their healthcare needs. The good news is — you still have options right now.
During this enrollment period, you can:
- Switch from one Medicare Advantage plan to another
- Drop your Medicare Advantage plan and return to Original Medicare
- Add a standalone Part D prescription drug plan if you return to Original Medicare
However, this opportunity ends March 31, which is why February is such a critical time to review your coverage.
Why February Matters So Much
By February, you’ve likely had at least one doctor visit, prescription refill, or medical expense under your new plan. That real-world experience tells us far more than a plan summary ever could. If something doesn’t feel right, February is your chance to fix it before you’re locked in for the rest of the year.
I work with many Southwest Florida clients who relocate seasonally or see multiple specialists. Network access, referrals, and out-of-pocket costs are especially important here, and February is when these issues tend to surface.
Common Reasons Clients Call Me in February
- Their doctor is suddenly out of network
- Prescription costs are higher than expected
- Prior authorizations are slowing down care
- Supplemental benefits sound good but aren’t practical
- They simply don’t feel confident they chose the right plan
Medicare is complicated, and plans change every year. My role is to help you understand your options clearly and confidently.
My Approach to Medicare Reviews
When we review your plan, we look at:
- Your doctors and specialists
- Your prescriptions
- Your budget and comfort with out-of-pocket costs
- Your travel and lifestyle needs
- Whether Medicare Advantage or Original Medicare makes more sense for you
Sometimes the solution is a different Medicare Advantage plan. Other times, it’s stepping back into Original Medicare with a Part D plan. What matters is that your coverage works for you.
Don’t Miss the March 31 Deadline
Once March 31 passes, changes become much more limited. February gives us breathing room to review everything carefully, without rushing, but with purpose.
If you’re unsure about your current Medicare Advantage plan, I encourage you to reach out now.