We experienced great pride and joy during the beatification Mass of Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen on September 24, 2026. Blessed Fulton J. Sheen exemplifies his missionary call through charitable acts of kindness for the vulnerable and profound use of media to bring the Gospel alive! As the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period approaches this Fall, caregivers, advocates, and adult children can learn to help our elders make informed decisions for their health and well being. Medicare is an important part of a secure and healthy retirement. However Medicare may feel complicated and frustrating, particularly with periodic changes to plan benefits, prescription needs, doctors, and costs from year to year.
Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period runs from Oct 15 – Dec 7, 2026. During this period, Medicare beneficiaries can review their health and prescription drug coverage and when appropriate, make changes for the following year. Changes made during this period generally go into effect January 1st 2027. It is worthwhile to review your plan with a professional, even if you are satisfied with the current plan. Changes could include premiums, benefits, prescription coverage, providers, and personal health needs. If you decide to keep your current coverage after a review, you don’t need to take further action.
YOUR CHECKLIST
1. Check your Preferences for doctors and hospitals
If you have Medicare Advantage, check whether your doctors, specialists, hospitals, and other providers will continue to participate in the plan’s network. If your current preferences have changed status due to network affiliation changes, that can impact your 2027 costs and access to care.
2. Check your Prescriptions are not impacted
Check that your prescribed medications remain covered on the prescription Drug plan and validate any changes in deductibles and cost. Also check which are the preferred pharmacies available on the prescription drug plan so that cost is reduced and convenient access is maintained.
3. Check Total costs—not just your premium
A plan with a $0 or low monthly premium may have other costs, such as deductibles, copayments, coinsurance, or different out-of-pocket limits. Medicare recommends considering the total expected costs and coverage needs when comparing plans.
4. Changes in your health & wellness needs
A new diagnosis, a new prescription, a change in doctors, or a relocation of residence can affect whether your current coverage continues to meet your needs.
5. Check for benefits provided at no cost or low cost under new Medicare guidelines or those that have been removed. Examples
include no cost gym membership, Over the Counter (OTC) items or Food or Home benefits.
Medicare Is Not One-Size-Fits-All
Your important question may not be, “Which plan is cheapest?” BUT: “Which coverage fits my health needs, medications, providers, and budget friendly?”
Medicare beneficiaries may receive coverage through Original Medicare or Medicare Advantage (also known as Part C). Those who choose Original Medicare may also consider a Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) policy and stand alone prescription drug coverage. Medicare Advantage plans generally combine Medicare Part A and Part B and usually include Part D prescription drug coverage.
Protect Yourself From Scams
Open Enrollment brings an increase in Medicare-related advertisements and scam phone calls. DO NOT give your Medicare 
number or Social Security number to unsolicited callers. Medicare does not call people to sell them something. If you receive an
unexpected call asking for personal information or payment, take time to verify who is contacting you before providing any
information.
You Don’t Have to Navigate Medicare Alone Helping our elder family members understand Medicare can be a meaningful act of service. A spouse, adult child, caregiver, trusted insurance professional, or other appropriate resource can help organize questions and compare information. For free personalized Medicare counseling, beneficiaries can also contact their state’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). SHIP counselors are not connected with insurance companies or health plans. Medicare also provides assistance at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).
Remember to review your checklist so that you can make an informed decision. A validation of your Medicare choices may take an hour, and is worth the investment for peace of mind and security in 2027. Blessed Fulton J. Sheen, pray for our beloved elders and intercede for their good health.
As a licensed Life & Health Insurance agent, Sangeeta Jadav is passionate to help navigate the changes in Medicare options. She can be reached via phone or text at 832-651-6435 .
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