Illinois Agency Urges Medicare Beneficiaries to Study Plan Options Before Open Enrollment

October 13, 2026 - 18:04

The Illinois Department on Aging is calling on Medicare beneficiaries across the state to take time to learn about their plan choices ahead of the annual Open Enrollment period, which starts Thursday. Agency officials say reviewing options early can help people avoid rushed decisions and unexpected costs in the coming year.

Open Enrollment runs through December 7. During this window, people with Medicare can switch between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans, change Part D prescription drug coverage, or adjust other parts of their health coverage. Plans often change their premiums, networks, covered drugs, and out of pocket costs each year, so a plan that worked well in the past may no longer be the best fit.

The department recommends that beneficiaries gather a list of their current medications, check whether their doctors remain in a plan's network, and compare projected yearly costs rather than looking only at monthly premiums. Free counseling is available through the state's Senior Health Insurance Program, which offers one on one help from trained volunteers.

Officials also warn about aggressive marketing and scams that tend to increase during Open Enrollment. They advise residents to verify any plan information through official sources and never share personal or banking details with unsolicited callers. Beneficiaries who need assistance can contact their local senior center or the department's helpline for guidance.