Archived article. Information reflects its original publication date and may have changed. Call Kindred for current coverage questions.
**Medicare Open Enrollment Has Ended — What Happens Next?
Your Next Chance to Make Changes Starts in January**
The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) for Medicare—October 15 through December 7—is officially over. If you enrolled, switched plans, or updated your coverage for 2026, all those changes will take effect on January 1.
But what if you didn’t make a change… or you realize the plan you picked isn’t the right fit?
Good news: there’s another Medicare enrollment window right around the corner.
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment (MA-OEP): January 1 to March 31
Starting January 1, Medicare gives you a second opportunity called the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (MA-OEP). This period runs until March 31, and it allows certain adjustments to ensure your coverage actually works for you.
During MA-OEP, you can:
- Switch from one Medicare Advantage (MA) plan to another
- Drop a Medicare Advantage plan and return to Original Medicare
- Add a Part D prescription drug plan if you return to Original Medicare
Important:
This window is only for people already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan. If you are on Original Medicare and want to switch to an MA plan, this period does not allow that—your next window would be a Special Enrollment Period or the next AEP.
Why This Second Enrollment Period Matters
Many people make fast decisions during the busy fall enrollment rush. Once January arrives, they sometimes notice:
- Their doctor isn’t in-network
- Their prescriptions cost more than expected
- Co-pays or maximum out-of-pocket costs don’t match their needs
- They wanted more benefits (dental, vision, OTC cards, gym, transportation, etc.)
- Customer service with the carrier isn’t what they expected
The January–March window gives you a chance to fix that.
At Kindred Brokerage, we review your Medicare Advantage plan line by line to make sure it fits your health, medication list, preferred doctors, and budget. If it doesn’t, we’ll help you switch to something that does—with no pressure, no confusion, and no wasted time.
If Your Plan Isn’t Right, Don’t Wait
Because MA-OEP only offers one change, it’s important to get the decision right the first time.
Kindred Brokerage can help you:
- Check your doctor network
- Verify your prescription costs
- Compare competing plans
- Review extra benefits
- Look at your yearly total cost, not just the premium
Whether you’re in Corpus Christi or anywhere in Texas, Kindred Brokerage is here to guide you step-by-step.
Need a Plan Review?
Call 361-673-3512
Or visit: kindredbrokerage.com
We’ll look over your 2026 plan together and make sure you’re set for the year.