The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period is underway and will end March 31, 2026. If you’re enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, this is an opportunity to review your coverage and make a one-time change if needed.

For those who have a Medicare Advantage PPO plan, it’s especially important to check with your healthcare providers — particularly any out-of-network providers you regularly use.  We are increasingly seeing situations where out-of-network providers are declining to accept Medicare Advantage PPO coverage or refusing to bill the plan. This can leave you responsible for paying for services upfront and seeking reimbursement directly from your PPO plan.

During the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period, eligible beneficiaries can take action to better align their coverage with their healthcare needs. This may include switching to a different Medicare Advantage plan that offers a more suitable provider network or coverage structure.

Now is the time to confirm that your plan works with the doctors and facilities you rely on. Reviewing your options before March 31 can help you avoid disruptions in care and unexpected expenses later in the year.

You can compare plan options at www.medicare.gov. If you need help logging into the site, or searching for plans, Mystic Valley Elder Services has some simple videos on our website that can help, at www.mves.org/shine.

For further assistance, contact your local senior center to book a SHINE (Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Everyone) appointment or call Mystic Valley’s SHINE Hotline at 781-388-4845.