Annual Enrollment Period: Why You Should Review Your MAPD Every Year

Annual Enrollment Period: Why You Should Review Your MAPD Every Year

Your needs change—so should your plan.
“In the middle of every difficulty lies opportunity.” — Albert Einstein

You’ve chosen your Medicare Advantage (MAPD) plan. You feel good about it. Maybe you even set it and forgot it. But just because your current plan worked last year doesn’t mean it’s the best option this year.

That’s why the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) exists—to give you a chance to reevaluate, re-shop, and realign your plan to your life.

Let’s explore what AEP is, why it matters, and how reviewing your MAPD plan annually could save you money, stress, and regrets.

What Is the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)?

The AEP runs from October 15 to December 7 each year. During this time, all Medicare beneficiaries can:

✅ Switch from one MAPD plan to another
✅ Leave MAPD and return to Original Medicare
✅ Enroll in a stand-alone Part D drug plan
✅ Add, drop, or change plans without penalty

Any changes made during AEP go into effect January 1 of the following year.

Why You Should Review Your Plan—Every Year

Your current plan may have served you well—but things change. And those changes can cost you.

Here’s what may change year to year:

• Monthly premiums

• Copays for doctor visits, hospital stays, or prescriptions

• Network providers (your doctor may leave your plan!)

• Drug formularies (your meds may no longer be covered)

• Extra benefits (dental, vision, OTC allowance, etc.)

• Star ratings (which reflect quality and service)

Failing to review your plan could mean higher costs, fewer benefits, or losing access to your preferred care.

Life Changes That Could Impact Your Plan Needs

Your health, lifestyle, or finances might look different than they did last year. Consider:

• Have you been diagnosed with a new condition?

• Are you taking new or more expensive medications?

• Do you plan to travel or move to a new state?

• Did your income change, affecting your eligibility for extra help or Medicaid?

• Are you using all the extras your current plan offers?

Even subtle shifts in your life can make another plan a better fit.

Real Example: The Cost of Not Reviewing

Margaret, 72, didn’t check her plan during AEP. In January, she found her blood pressure medication—previously a $10 copay—was now $80/month because it was removed from her plan’s formulary.

By the time she realized it, it was too late to change (outside of a Special Enrollment Period).

Don’t be like Margaret. A quick review in the fall can prevent a year of frustration.

How KEyO Simplifies Your AEP Review

We make your annual Medicare Advantage review quick, easy, and stress-free:

✅ We compare plans in your zip code
✅ Check your doctors, medications, and pharmacies
✅ Show you cost differences for premiums, copays, and out-of-pocket limits
✅ Explain new benefits or better-rated options
✅ Help you switch with zero pressure and zero cost

Even if you decide to keep your current plan, you’ll do so with confidence.

What If I Don’t Do Anything During AEP?

If you don’t make any changes during AEP:

• Your current MAPD plan will automatically renew

• You’ll keep your existing doctors, coverage, and cost structure—unless your plan changes without you noticing

That’s why it’s so important to at least review your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) that your plan mails each fall—and work with a licensed advisor to double-check the details.

Trusted Care. Tailored for You. Every Year.

At KEyO Insurance Services, we don’t believe in “set it and forget it.” Medicare is a moving target—and we’re here to help you hit the bullseye every year. During AEP, we go beyond checking boxes—we review your goals, costs, health, and peace of mind.

Final Thought:
You get one window a year to make a change. Make the most of it—with guidance you can trust.