Medicare Open Enrollment began October 15, 2026, and ends December 7, 2026. During this time, people with Medicare can compare 2027 coverage options at Medicare.gov. The Medicare Plan Finder allows beneficiaries to compare Medicare health and drug plans, including premiums, costs, benefits, and other coverage information. Because plan costs and benefits can change from year to year, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) encourages beneficiaries to review their current coverage and compare their options for 2027.
Beneficiaries can also call 1-800-MEDICARE for help comparing plans and costs. 1-800-MEDICARE is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to provide help. People who want to keep their current Medicare coverage generally do not need to re-enroll.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) says access to MA plans remains broad in 2027, with more than 99% of Medicare beneficiaries having access to at least one MA plan, and 97% having access to 10 or more MA plan choices. The total number of available MA plans nationally is expected to remain relatively stable, changing from 5,553 in 2026 to approximately 5,532 in 2027. However, many plans are being discontinued, with 3 to 5 million people expected to have to change coverage. If you run into complications changing plans or returning to Traditional Medicare, feel free to share your story with us at dpc@dialysispatients.org.
The total average monthly Part D premium for stand-alone prescription drug plans is projected to increase less than $1, from $35.09 in 2026 to $36 in 2027. 88% of non-low-income beneficiaries will have access to a basic Part D plan that is $10.30 or less, and 93% of non-low-income beneficiaries will have access to an enhanced Part D plan at less than $6.
People with limited income and resources may also qualify for programs that help lower their Medicare costs. Medicare Savings Programs (MSP) may help pay Medicare premiums and may also pay deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments for eligible individuals. Learn more at: www.medicare.gov/basics/costs/help/medicare-savings-programs.
Extra Help is a Medicare program that helps qualifying individuals pay Part D premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, and other costs. Individuals who enroll in MSP automatically qualify for Extra Help. Learn more at: Medicare.gov/extrahelp.
