Did You Pick the Wrong Medicare Plan? Here’s What You Can Do Next

Every year, millions of seniors make important decisions about their Medicare coverage during the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP). But after the dust settles, it’s common for people to feel unsure — or even regretful — about the plan they chose.

If you're feeling this way, you are NOT alone. Medicare is complex, plans change every year, and the enrollment window moves quickly. The good news is this:

You still have options. You still have time. And you are not stuck.

Let’s walk through what you can do if you feel like your current Medicare plan isn’t the right fit.

1. Recognize That It’s Completely Normal

So many seniors feel overwhelmed during AEP — new benefits, new premiums, new networks, and constant advertisements make it hard to compare everything perfectly.

If you’re worried about:

• Doctors not being in-network

• Unexpected co-pays

• High prescription costs

• Losing benefits you were counting on

• A plan that doesn’t work the way you expected

…you’re not the only one. Your feelings are valid, and the Medicare system gives you a chance to course-correct.

2. Use the Medicare OEP (Open Enrollment Period)

From January 1st to March 31st, Medicare Advantage members can make a change.

During OEP, you can:

• Switch from one Medicare Advantage plan to another

• Go back to Original Medicare (and join a Part D plan)

This means you can fix errors, upgrade your coverage, or move back to a plan that better meets your needs.

Who can use OEP?

Anyone already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan as of January 1st.

If you only have Original Medicare (Part A & B), OEP does not apply — but there may be other options.

3. Special Enrollment Periods May Be Available

Even outside OEP, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP), which allows you to switch plans if certain life circumstances apply.

You may qualify for an SEP if you:

• Moved out of your plan’s service area

• Recently moved into or out of a skilled nursing facility

• Lost employer or union coverage

• Qualify for Extra Help / Low-Income Subsidy

• Have Medicaid

• Experienced errors or misinformation during enrollment

A licensed Medicare advisor can help you determine if you qualify.

4. Schedule a Benefits Review With a Licensed Advisor

A plan that looks good on paper may not function the same in real life.

That’s why a post-enrollment benefits review is so important.

During this review, an advisor can:

• Verify your preferred doctors are in-network

• Check your prescriptions and pharmacy prices

• Identify any surprise costs

• Look for plans with richer benefits

• Explain your coverage in simple, clear language

Many seniors discover they can switch to something better — they just need someone to walk them through the options.

5. Don’t Wait Too Long

The longer you wait, the fewer opportunities you have.

If it’s still between January 1st and March 31st, you may be able to switch your Medicare Advantage plan and get something that truly works for you.

If you think you made the wrong choice:

• Get a review

• Understand your options

• Make a confident decision

You deserve peace of mind, not confusion or stress.

6. You Deserve a Plan That Fits Your Life — Not the Other Way Around

Medicare is not “one size fits all.”
Your health changes, your needs change, and your budget changes.

A thoughtful advisor can help ensure your plan fits:

• Your prescriptions

• Your doctors

• Your specialists

• Your budget

• Your lifestyle

• Your priorities

If something doesn’t feel right, listen to your gut — and take action.