Q. What is a Medicare Annual Notice of Change and why is it important?
A: Usually in September every year, individuals with Medicare Advantage Plans or Part D Prescription Drug plans will receive an Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) and Evidence of Coverage (EOC) notice. These contain information about any changes in coverage for the coming year. It’s important to read these notices so you can decide if your coverage will continue to meet your needs or if you should change it. Specifically, individuals should check to see if there are changes to the plan’s provider network, the cost of the premium and/or deductible, or co-pays and fees, and the plan’s formulary (the list of drugs the plan covers.)
If you are unhappy with any changes to your plan, you might want to enroll in a different plan for 2024, which you can do during Open Enrollment starting in October.
You can do this by going online to Medicare.gov and clicking on “Find Health and Drug Plans.” If you don’t have computer access or aren’t comfortable going online, Area Agency on Aging (AAA) has counselors certified by the Michigan Medicare/Medicaid Assistance Program (MMAP) who are available to assist in objectively reviewing your current Medicare plan and comparing other Medicare drug plan choices. This service is free and confidential. See more information below on the Open Enrollment appointment process
Q: Where can people go to get help if they want to change their Medicare Part D plan this fall?
A: As always, Area Agency on Aging (AAA) and the Michigan Medicare/Medicaid Assistance Program (MMAP) are here to help during Medicare Open Enrollment with free and confidential assistance comparing Medicare Advantage plans and Part D drug plan options. MMAP counselors are available throughout our service area of Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties.
Medicare Open Enrollment runs from October 15 to December 7, 2023. In most cases this is the only time you can pick a new Medicare Advantage or Part D plan. Changes you make during Fall Open Enrollment will take effect January 1, 2024.
Don’t miss this important opportunity to make the most of your Medicare coverage. AAA will offer appointments from October through the beginning of December, more specific details to come! Keep updated on our website at www.AreaAgencyonAging.org/medicare-medicaid or call our Info Line for Aging and Disability at 800-654-2810.
This column appears each week in The Herald-Palladium.