How to Read Your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC)

Why this letter matters — and what to look for before you decide on a Medicare plan
Every September, Medicare beneficiaries enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan or a Part D drug plan receive a document called the Annual Notice of Change (ANOC). It may look like just another piece of insurance paperwork, but don’t toss it aside — it’s one of the most important letters you’ll get all year.
Your ANOC outlines what’s changing in your plan for the next year. Since those changes take effect January 1, reading your ANOC carefully is the first step in deciding whether to keep your plan or shop around during the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) .
Medicare plans are not static. Each year, insurance companies adjust their:
  • Premiums
  • Deductibles
  • Copayments and coinsurance
  • Prescription drug formularies
  • Doctor and hospital networks
If you stay in your plan without reading your ANOC, you may be surprised by higher costs or lost coverage come January.

Why the ANOC Matters

When you open your ANOC, focus on these areas:
  1. Premiums and Deductibles
    Check the monthly premium and annual deductible for 2026. Even small increases can add up over a year.
  2. Prescription Drug Coverage
    Look for changes to your formulary (the list of covered drugs). Are your medications still covered? Did they move to a higher cost tier? Also check your preferred pharmacies — sometimes they change from “preferred” to “standard,” which can mean higher copays.
  3. Copayments and Coinsurance
    Review how much you’ll pay for common services like:
    • Primary care and specialist visits
    • Emergency room visits
    • MRIs, CT scans, or other imaging
    • Hospital stays
  4. Doctor and Hospital Networks
    Medicare Advantage plans have networks. If your doctor or hospital leaves the network in 2026, you could be on the hook for higher costs — or have to switch providers.
  5. Extra Benefits
    Look at “extras” like dental, vision, or hearing. Some plans expand these benefits, while others reduce them. Make sure the benefits you use most are still included.

What to Look for in Your ANOC

What to Do After Reading Your ANOC

  • If the changes are minor: You may decide to stay put.
  • If costs go up or coverage shrinks: Compare other plans during AEP.
  • If you’re unsure: Gather your list of doctors and medications, then talk with a trusted broker who can compare plans side by side for you.

Key Takeaway

Your Annual Notice of Change is your early warning system. By reviewing it carefully, you’ll know whether your plan will still meet your needs in 2026. And if it doesn’t, you’ll have plenty of time during AEP to make a change.
The smartest move? Set aside time with your broker to go over your ANOC. Together, you can decide whether it makes sense to stay with your plan — or switch to one that better fits your health and budget.

Choosing the Right Medicare Coverage

Selecting the best Medicare coverage depends on factors like your healthcare needs, budget, and preferred providers. You can choose between:
  • Original Medicare (Parts A & B): Allows you to see any doctor or
    hospital that accepts Medicare but does not include prescription drug
    coverage (Part D) or additional benefits.
  • Medicare Advantage (Part C): Offers bundled coverage with
    potential extra benefits but may require using a network of providers.
  • Medigap (Medicare Supplement Insurance): Helps cover
    out-of-pocket costs not covered by Original Medicare, such as
    copayments and deductibles.

Key Medicare Enrollment Periods

It is crucial to enroll in Medicare at the right time to avoid penalties and ensure continuous coverage:
  • Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): A seven-month window starting
    three months before your 65th birthday month.
  • General Enrollment Period (GEP): From January 1 to March 31
    each year for those who missed their IEP.
  • Annual Election Period (AEP): From October 15 to December 7,
    allowing you to switch or enroll in Medicare Advantage and Part D
    plans.
  • Open Enrollment Period(OEP): From January 1 to March 31 for
    those who missed AEP and want to make certain changes.
  • Special Enrollment Period(SEP): Can be used anytime during the
    calendar year for those that meet certain criteria such as moving to a
    new service area.

Finding Help with Medicare

Understanding Medicare can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. Licensed Insurance Brokers, Medicare.gov, and state health assistance programs can provide guidance tailored to your specific needs.
By taking the time to explore your Medicare options, you can make informed decisions that ensure you receive the healthcare coverage that best suits your lifestyle and budget.
Do I have to sign up for Medicare?
It depends upon your current coverage. If you are employed and your employer has over 20 employees then you can delay signing up for Medicare and avoid penalties.
No, You will have to enroll in a stand alone Part D plan or a Medicare Advantage Plan(Part C) to get coverage.
There are no networks with Medicare and most doctors and hospitals accept it. However, Medicare does not cover 100% of services so a Medicare Supplement or Medicare Advantage plans is advisable.

Mike Miligi- Owner

For over 10 years, Mike has been assisting Seniors and other Medicare-eligible individuals in understanding the ins and outs of Medicare and Medicare Health Insurance options, including Medicare Advantage Plans(Part C), Medicare Supplement Plans(Medigap), Prescription Drug Plans(PartD), and Dental and Vision programs.
Mike is Licensed in seven States and Certified with 11 Insurance Carriers. He has helped thousands of individuals decide on the best course of action for their particular Health Insurance needs. Because Mike is an Independent Medicare Health Insurance Broker, he works for the client, not the Insurance Carriers, and is able to provide his clients with accurate and unbiased Health Insurance options.
Mike recertifies with CMS(The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services) annually, regularly completes Continuing Education Courses required by individual State Insurance Departments, and keeps abreast of industry trends and standards to offer his clients the most up-to-date information.
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