3 Things You Must Check Before You Let Your Medicare Advantage Plan Renew for 2026

1. Check If Your Doctors Are Still In-Network

This is the #1 reason people run into problems with their Medicare Advantage plans.

Every year, plans renegotiate their doctor and hospital networks — and that means your doctor or specialist who’s covered this year could be out-of-network next year.

If that happens, you could face hundreds or even thousands of dollars in unexpected bills — or find out you’re not covered at all.

Here’s what to do:

• Check your plan’s 2026 provider directory (you can view it online or request a printed copy).
• Call your doctor’s office directly and confirm whether they’ll still accept your plan next year.

If your provider is leaving the network, review other Medicare Advantage options or consider switching to a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan for nationwide access.

2. Review Your Prescription Drug Coverage

Every fall, Medicare Advantage plans update their formulary — the list of drugs they cover — as well as the copays and tiers for each medication.

Even though the 2026 rules eliminate the “donut hole” and cap annual drug spending at $2,100, your specific prescriptions could still change in price or coverage.

We’re already seeing brand-name medications being dropped from some 2026 formularies.

Here’s what to check:

• Make sure every one of your medications is still on your plan’s formulary for 2026.
• Confirm pricing at your preferred pharmacy.
• Check your Annual Notice of Change letter for any new tier changes.

You can verify all this at Medicare.gov, through your insurance company, or by calling us for help.

3. Know Your 2026 Out-of-Pocket Maximum

Here’s a big one that catches people off guard.

Even if your plan’s premium stays at $0, your maximum out-of-pocket (MOOP) can go up significantly — and that’s your financial safety net if you have a major health event.

In 2026, many plans are increasing their MOOPs from around $6,000 to as high as $9,000.

That means if you have a tough medical year, you could end up paying thousands more than before.

Be sure to review:

• The new out-of-pocket maximum for your plan.
• Copays for doctor visits, specialists, ER, and skilled nursing care.

You’ll find this information in your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC). If you’re not sure how to review it, check out my video guide linked below — or give us a call and we’ll walk you through it.

Bonus: Make Sure Your Plan Is Still Being Offered

Many insurance carriers are reducing benefits or discontinuing plans altogether in 2026 — especially PPOs.

If your plan is ending, you’ll receive a letter from your insurance company. But during Annual Enrollment, most people get so much mail that it’s easy to overlook.

Don’t assume your plan will roll over. Verify that it’s still available for 2026 — either by calling us or checking on Medicare.gov.

Recap

Before you let your Medicare Advantage plan renew for 2026:

1. Confirm your doctors and hospitals are still in-network.
2. Check your prescription coverage and drug copays.
3. Review your plan’s out-of-pocket maximum and benefit changes.

Even small changes can add up to thousands of dollars next year — and missing a plan termination notice could leave you without coverage entirely.

If you’d like help comparing plans or reviewing your current coverage, call us at 800-208-4974 or schedule a free consultation.

We’ll make sure you start 2026 with the right Medicare plan for your needs.