Medicare’s Annual Election Period (AEP) runs from Oct. 15 through Dec. 7. During this time, clients may have questions about changing plans, managing health care costs or preparing for the year ahead.

You do not have to answer every Medicare question on your own. A trusted referral partner can help your clients understand their options while you remain focused on their broader financial goals.

Here are seven questions clients may ask during AEP.

1. Should I Review My Medicare Coverage Every Year?

Yes. Medicare plan costs, provider networks, covered services and formularies can change each year. A yearly review helps clients determine whether their current coverage still fits their health care needs and budget.

2. What Happens if My Plan Changes?

Clients should review their Annual Notice of Change letter, which explains coverage and cost changes for the upcoming year. If their plan no longer meets their needs, they may have an opportunity to select new coverage during AEP.

3. Can I Switch Medicare Advantage Plans?

In most cases, yes. During AEP, eligible beneficiaries can switch from one Medicare Advantage plan to another or return to Original Medicare. A Licensed Insurance Agent can help clients compare available options and understand important plan details.

4. Should I Consider Medicare Supplement Coverage?

Medicare Supplement insurance may help cover certain out-of-pocket costs not paid by Original Medicare. However, clients considering switching from Medicare Advantage to Original Medicare during AEP should understand that they may not automatically qualify for a Medicare Supplement policy. Outside certain enrollment periods or guaranteed-issue situations, insurers may require medical underwriting and could deny coverage based on health history. Rules vary by state, so clients should review their eligibility and options with a Licensed Insurance Agent before making changes to their existing coverage.

5. How Do Prescription Drug Changes Affect Me?

Prescription drug costs, formularies (lists of covered medications) and pharmacy networks may change from year to year. If a medication is removed from a plan's formulary or moved to a higher-cost tier, clients could face significantly higher out-of-pocket costs or need to switch medications. Changes to pharmacy networks can also increase costs, especially if a preferred pharmacy is no longer in-network. Encourage clients to review their plan materials and confirm that their medications and preferred pharmacies are still covered before renewing or changing plans.

6. Can I Get Help Comparing Medicare Plans?

Yes. Clients do not have to navigate Medicare alone. The Licensed Insurance Agents at Medicare BackOffice^® can conduct a needs analysis, explain plan options and help clients find coverage that fits their needs and budget.

We keep that relationship going, too. We reach out to your client each year during AEP to review their plans — a key step in managing their health care expenses. And we also send a newsletter and emails with important Medicare-related news to keep them informed and to show we care.

7. When Should I Schedule a Medicare Review?

The earlier, the better. AEP can become busy, so clients should schedule their review before the deadline. Understanding the Medicare referral process can help you connect clients with support at the right time.

Help Clients Navigate AEP

Medicare BackOffice gives financial advisors and other professionals a reliable resource for Medicare questions. If you are looking for a way to support your clients without becoming a Medicare expert, register as a new Medicare BackOffice referring partner.

Have questions? Check out our frequently asked questions, or contact us to learn more.

For Licensed Insurance Agent Use Only. Not For Distribution to the General Public. Medicare Supplement insurance plans are not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program.