For the 2027 Medicare Annual Enrollment Period, the popular words in the Medicare Advantage (MA) space are “reset” and “disruption.” These terms mean that many companies offering MA plans are making changes to their plans for the upcoming year.

These changes could be lowering or removing benefits, exiting counties, or increasing monthly premiums. Here are the choices anyone has if their current plan is not being offered in 2027:

  1. Choose a different MA plan with the same company if available in your zip code.*
  2. Choose a MA plan with a different company in your zip code.*
  3. Compare Medicare Supplement and Part D (prescription drug) options. When a MA plan exits the market, it creates a unique situation called Guarantee Issue. This allows MA members to choose a Medicare Supplement WITHOUT answering health history questions.

Options to consider if choosing a Medicare Supplement:

  • Plan F – Available only to those eligible for Medicare before January 1, 2020. This is the “Cadillac” of Supplements as it covers all the gaps in Medicare Parts A and B. This is also the most expensive option in nearly every case.
  • Plan G – The next most comprehensive plan available to those eligible for Medicare after January 1, 2020. It covers all the same gaps Plan F does except it does not cover the Part B deductible, which is expected to be $292 in plan year 2027. With rate increases of 20-30% during the past three years, the Plan G can be nearly as expensive as the Plan F.
  • Plan N – Once the Part B deductible is met, there may be $20 copays for some office visits and $50 copays for some ER visits. There couls also be extra charges of 15% above the Medicare approved amount if the provider doesn’t accept Medicare assignment (<2% don’t). Plan N is typically $30-50 less per month than Plans F or G.
  • High-deductible Plan G – It’s easiest to think of the $3,050 deductible on this plan as a max out of pocket. Because Medicare still pays 80% beyond the Part B deductible for outpatient expenses. A hospitalization that invokes the $1,788 Part A deductible would likely be needed to reach this amount. Costing nearly $100 / month less than its more expensive cousins, and not having the same large annual rate increases, this plan is becoming a more attractive option for those wanting the benefits of the Supplement without the higher costs.

The independent agents at On Point Insurance Agency (insuranceonpoint.com) are licensed to write all Medicare plans in Nebraska so we can find the best solution for our clients.

*It will be important to check if / how prescriptions are covered and if providers are still in network before choosing a new plan.