When a Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug (MA-PD) plan ends, it can feel overwhelming to know what steps to take. If no new plan is chosen, you’ll automatically return to Original Medicare on January 1—but your drug coverage will end. For those with Extra Help, there’s a chance you may be reassigned to another plan, but it’s important not to leave your decision to chance.
Original Medicare doesn’t have an annual out-of-pocket maximum, so your potential costs can add up. For 2026, expect Part B premiums at $202.90 per month, a $283 deductible, and a Part A deductible of $1,700. With nearly 600,000 Medicare Advantage members set to lose their coverage in 2027, those early notification letters are more than just paperwork—they’re your cue to start reviewing your options.
There’s a window for guaranteed-issue Medigap rights that opens 60 days before your plan ends and lasts for 63 days after. Be mindful: if you go more than 63 days without drug coverage, you could face permanent Part D penalties.
To stay protected starting January 1, it’s best to select your new plan by December 31. Take time to review every medication, coverage tier, and pharmacy. Whether you choose a new Advantage plan or stick with Original Medicare plus a Part D plan, making an informed decision ensures you’re not left without the coverage you need.
As someone who’s guided many San Diego families through these same choices, I know how much clarity and peace of mind matter. If you’re sorting through your options, you don’t have to do it alone—sometimes, a careful conversation makes all the difference.
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