Louisiana Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple reminds Medicare beneficiaries to review their coverage during the annual Open Enrollment Period, which runs from October 15 through Dec. 7, 2026. Changes made during this window will take effect on Jan. 1, 2027.
During Open Enrollment, beneficiaries can:
- Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan (or vice versa)
- Change from one Medicare Advantage Plan to another
- Enroll, switch or drop a Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plan
The annual open enrollment period for Medicare beneficiaries opens Thursday, and the Louisiana Department of Insurance has some helpful tips to help you navigate your options. Ron Henderson, the deputy commissioner at the LDI’s office of consumer advocacy, says when it comes to Medicare plans, one size does not fit all – make sure you get the plan that suits your needs.
Henderson also notes the Department of Insurance has specialists who are able to help beneficiaries choose which plan is best for them – and with just a little bit of information, they can help you zero in on the best one.
“I need to know what drugs you’re on. I need to know what type of doctors you see; and you have to give them that information so they can give you the correct information back,” Henderson said.
Henderson says since LDI does not sell insurance itself, it will give unbiased advice – the department does not stand to benefit financially based on the selection.
“We will run a comparison for you, based on your drugs, based on the types of doctors you need; and then it will spit out your top three,” Henderson explained.
Drug Coverage Updates
Beginning in 2027, the Medicare Part D annual deductible will be $700, and out-of-pocket costs for covered prescription drugs will be capped at $2,400. During Open Enrollment, review your medications to see whether any are included in the Medicare drug price negotiation program, compare how each plan will cover your medications and determine what your estimated out-of-pocket costs will be in 2027.
Other Key Changes
- Covered insulin remains capped at no more than $35 for a one-month supply, and the Part D deductible does not apply to covered insulin.
- Medicare Advantage plans may require you to obtain a referral before seeing a specialist.
- Medical services and/or prescription drugs may require prior authorization – review the Medicare Advantage Plan and Prescription Drug Plan Evidence of Coverage (EOC).
- Medicare Advantage Plan supplemental benefits including dental, vision, hearing and other supplemental benefits may change by plan, so beneficiaries should carefully review their 2027 Annual Notice of Change.
- Medicare beneficiaries who are satisfied with their coverage are not required to take action to maintain it.
LaSHIP is housed within the Louisiana Department of Insurance and has partner organizations across the state. Medicare beneficiaries can contact LaSHIP by calling 1-800-259-5300 or visiting www.ldi.la.gov/LaSHIP.
