Medicare 2027 Open Enrollment: Important Changes for Patients

Dear Patient,

We want to make you aware of important changes to many Medicare plans for 2027 that could affect your coverage, benefits, provider network, and out-of-pocket costs.

Just because your Medicare plan worked well in 2026 does not mean it will provide the same coverage in 2027.

Medicare’s Annual Open Enrollment Period runs October 15 through December 7, 2026. Changes made during this window generally take effect January 1, 2027.

​

What’s Changing for Many Plans in 2027?

• Some Medicare Advantage plans are reducing supplemental benefits (dental, vision, hearing, transportation, over-the-counter allowances).

• Deductibles, copayments, coinsurance, and annual out-of-pocket limits may increase.

• Provider networks may change — your doctors, chiropractors, physical therapists, specialists, or hospitals may no longer participate.

• Prescription drug coverage, pharmacy networks, and out-of-pocket drug costs may change.

• Some Medicare Advantage plans are being discontinued in certain areas.

 

Five Steps to Take Now

1. Review your Annual Notice of Change. Your plan should have sent this by September 30 explaining what is changing for 2027.

2. Verify your providers. Confirm that your doctors, chiropractors, physical therapists, specialists, and preferred hospitals will remain in-network for 2027.

3. Check your prescriptions. Make sure your medications are still covered and note any changes in cost or preferred pharmacies.

4. Compare your options. Visit Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE(1-800-633-4227).

5. Don’t miss the December 7 deadline. The plan must receive your enrollment request by December 7 for a January 1, 2027 start date.

 

We’re Here to Help

If you are considering a change, please contact our office before you make a final decision. We can help you verify whether Cherry Health Center’s providers participate in the plan you are considering.

We cannot recommend a specific insurance plan. Our goal is simply to help you avoid unexpected interruptions in your care.

For free, unbiased Medicare counseling in Missouri, contact Missouri SHIP at 1-800-390-3330 or visit missouriship.org. You can also use the national locator at shiphelp.org.

Please share this information with family members and friends who have Medicare. A little preparation now can help prevent surprises next year.

 

We appreciate the trust you place in Cherry Health Center and look forward to continuing to care for you in 2027.

​

Warm regards,
Cherry Health Center
(417)413-5900
607 W Battlefield Road, Springfield, MO 65807