3 Medicare Changes Coming in 2026: What You Need to Know
With Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period going on now, it is important for you to know about important changes in Medicare coming in 2026. By knowing and understanding these changes, you can make informed decisions about your Medicare coverage for 2026.
Below are some of the key changes to know.
1. Lower costs for your medicines
One of the biggest changes coming in 2026 is a new limit on how much you will have to pay for prescription drugs each year.
- A cap on your spending: Starting in 2026, if you have a Medicare Part D plan, the most you'll have to pay for your medicines out of your own pocket is $2,100 for the whole year. This will especially help if you take expensive drugs for long-term health problems like cancer or diabetes.
- Monthly payment plan: If you reach the $2,100 spending limit, you won’t have to pay a large bill all at once. You will have the option to spread the cost out in smaller monthly payments.
- Insulin stays affordable: The cost of insulin will still be capped at $35 for a month's supply, and you won't have to pay a deductible for it.
2. More preventive care at no cost
Medicare is expanding coverage for services like mental health check-ups and heart screenings without you having to pay for them. In addition, vaccines recommended by the CDC will continue to be covered at no cost to you.
3. Changes to Medicare Advantage Plans
If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan or are looking at switching to one, you will see that plans will continue to offer extra benefits like help with dental, vision, or hearing. However, some previous "health extras” will no longer be covered in 2026.
Preparing for the upcoming changes
Above are some of the bigger changes coming to Medicare in 2026. However, they are not the only changes, and each plan may have additional changes to benefits and cost. Therefore, it is important to complete the following tasks to make sure you are well-prepared to make the most of your healthcare coverage in 2026.
- Review your plan annually.
- Visit the official Medicare website for resources to help you understand your coverage, compare plans and make informed decisions.
- Consult with a Medicare Advisor* if you have any questions.
These upcoming changes are designed to make your healthcare easier to get and more affordable. By understanding these updates and preparing accordingly, you can make the most of your Medicare coverage. Remember, staying informed and proactive is key to navigating the complexities of Medicare successfully.
If you are a Village Medical™ patient and need help navigating Medicare and AEP, please click here for more information.
Medicare's Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is Oct. 15 – Dec. 7.
*Medicare brokers are not employees or representatives of Village Medical.