Insurers Have Already Told Wall Street Which Advantage Plans Die on December 31. Members Are the Last to Know, and the Letter Isn’t Due Until October 2.

Medicare Advantage and Medigap policy changes will affect millions as insurers decide which plans cease operations by December 31, 2026. Those affected will learn of their nonrenewal in October, with only 66 days remaining before Medicare's Open Enrollment deadline on December 7. This window allows the opportunity to return to Original Medicare and potentially enroll in a Medigap policy, which offers greater coverage during periods of high out-of-pocket costs.

Insurers such as Humana, UniteHealth Group, Elevance Health and Centene are streamlining their Medicare Advantage offerings, focusing on plans that provide sustainable value, particularly for dual eligible members. Those enrolled in these plans will receive an Annual Notice of Change by September 30, giving them a rare opportunity to compare options and make informed decisions about their healthcare coverage during a critical period.