Open Enrollment Ends December 7! Here’s How to Navigate Medicare Advantage

If you’re among the 65 million Americans on Medicare, now is the time to review your coverage options—Medicare Open Enrollment ends December 7, 2025. For many, the spotlight is on Medicare Advantage plans, which continue to grow in popularity and complexity.

Medicare Advantage (also known as Part C) is offered by private insurance companies and bundles Original Medicare Parts A and B with added benefits, including prescription drug coverage, dental, vision, and hearing. These all-in-one plans have become especially attractive due to their low or even $0 monthly premiums, plus perks like telehealth visits and gym memberships.

Enrollment Hits Record High

In 2025, 54% of eligible Medicare beneficiaries—more than 35 million people—enrolled in Medicare Advantage, according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). That’s up from previous years and reflects a growing shift toward more bundled, benefit-rich plans amid rising healthcare costs.

In total, 7,029 Medicare Advantage plans have been approved for 2025 across the country, with an average of 42 plans per person. Of those, 34 plans include prescription drug coverage (known as MA-PD plans), and nearly every U.S. county has at least one plan available.

But this year’s abundance may be the peak. CMS data shows that 2026 will bring fewer plan choices—an average of 32 MA-PD plans per person—as insurers streamline offerings due to mergers and shifting federal rules. Some urban markets are already seeing a drop, with key areas now offering 47 plans, down from 51.

What’s Changing for 2026?

Even if your current plan seems to fit well, experts urge beneficiaries to review it closely during Open Enrollment. Insurers may adjust their provider networks, co-pays, or benefits. That plan you loved in 2025 could look very different on January 1, 2026, when changes take effect.

Some things to watch for:

• Premiums and costs: Medicare Part B (which covers doctor visits and outpatient care) will have a standard premium of $185.50/month in 2026, a slight increase from last year. Out-of-pocket spending for prescription drugs is also rising, with the Part D catastrophic cap set at $2,000—a new national limit.
• Plan networks: Some insurers are adjusting networks to adapt to new federal rules. A key change is the end of a controversial prior authorization pilot program, which could make it easier to access care—but might also result in narrower networks in some areas.
• Extra benefits: Major insurers like Humana and UnitedHealthcare (UHC) are expanding dental and vision benefits in most of their plans. These extras can make a big difference in overall value, especially for those managing multiple health needs.
• Plan consolidation: With fewer choices ahead, some popular plans may be merged or discontinued. That means even if you’re satisfied, your plan may not be available in 2026. Don’t assume you’re automatically re-enrolled in the same coverage.

Choosing the Right Plan

Open Enrollment—from October 15 to December 7, 2025—is your window to switch plans, drop Medicare Advantage, and return to Original Medicare, or make other adjustments. Whatever you choose, it’s wise to compare the details.

The Medicare Plan Finder at Medicare.gov/plan-compare allows you to search by ZIP code, compare premiums, drug coverage, provider networks, and out-of-pocket costs. It’s also a helpful way to check whether your current doctors and prescriptions will be covered in 2026.

If you need help, local State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIP) offer free, unbiased guidance.

Don’t Miss the Deadline

Remember, Open Enrollment ends December 7. If you miss it, you may be locked into your current plan for all of 2026, unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.

With premiums rising, plan availability tightening, and new rules taking effect, this year’s Medicare Advantage choices matter more than ever. Review your options carefully and make changes, if needed, by December 7 so you’re covered—and confident—going into the new year.