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AEP is Here! 2026 Medicare Enrollment Guide for Vancouver, WA

October 15 - December 7, 2025 β€’ Your chance to review and change Medicare coverage

By Timothy Jonesβ€’β€’8 min read
Vancouver, WA office building - AEP 2026 Medicare enrollment

πŸŽ‰ AEP 2026 is officially here! From October 15th through December 7th, 2025, you have the opportunity to review and change your Medicare coverage for 2026. As your local Medicare broker in Vancouver, WA, I'm here to help you navigate this important period.

⏰ Important AEP 2026 Dates

October 15, 2025: AEP begins
December 7, 2025: AEP ends (last day to enroll)
January 1, 2026: New coverage begins
Now: Start planning and comparing plans

What's New for 2026 Medicare Plans

βœ… Enhanced Benefits

  • β€’ Expanded telehealth coverage
  • β€’ More dental and vision benefits
  • β€’ Improved prescription drug coverage
  • β€’ Better mental health services

πŸ“Š Plan Changes

  • β€’ New Medicare Advantage plans available
  • β€’ Updated provider networks
  • β€’ Revised prescription formularies
  • β€’ Cost structure adjustments

Vancouver, WA Specific Updates

For residents of Vancouver and Clark County, several local factors make this AEP particularly important:

πŸ₯ Local Healthcare Considerations

Major Healthcare Systems

  • β€’ PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center
  • β€’ Legacy Salmon Creek Medical Center
  • β€’ The Vancouver Clinic
  • β€’ Kaiser Permanente facilities

What to Check

  • β€’ Are your doctors in-network?
  • β€’ Is your preferred hospital covered?
  • β€’ Does your pharmacy participate?
  • β€’ Are specialists accessible?

Step-by-Step AEP Action Plan

1

Review Your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC)

Your current plan should have sent you an ANOC by September 30th. This document shows what's changing in your plan for 2026. Look for changes in premiums, deductibles, copays, and covered benefits.

2

List Your Current Healthcare Needs

Make a list of your doctors, medications, and any planned procedures. This will help you compare plans effectively and ensure your needs are covered.

3

Compare Available Plans

Use Medicare.gov's Plan Finder or work with a local broker to compare all available plans in your area. Don't just look at premiumsβ€”consider total out-of-pocket costs.

4

Enroll Before December 7th

Once you've decided, enroll in your chosen plan. Remember, your last enrollment before December 7th will be the one that takes effect on January 1, 2026.

Common AEP Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Don't Make These Mistakes:

Timing Mistakes

  • β€’ Waiting until the last minute
  • β€’ Not reviewing your ANOC
  • β€’ Missing the December 7th deadline

Comparison Mistakes

  • β€’ Only looking at premiums
  • β€’ Not checking provider networks
  • β€’ Ignoring prescription coverage

Why Work with a Local Medicare Broker?

🏠

Local Expertise

I understand Vancouver's healthcare landscape and can help you find plans that work with your local providers.

πŸ†“

No Cost to You

My services are completely free to you. I'm compensated by the insurance companies, not by you.

🀝

Ongoing Support

I'm here year-round to help with questions, changes, and any issues that arise with your coverage.

Get Your Free AEP Consultation

Ready to Navigate AEP 2026?

Don't go through AEP alone. Get expert guidance from a local Medicare broker who understands Vancouver's healthcare landscape and can help you find the perfect plan for your needs.

πŸ“ In-person appointments available at 1101 SE Tech Center Dr #140, Vancouver, WA

πŸ“± Phone and Zoom consultations also available

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I have to change my Medicare plan during AEP?

A: No, you're not required to change your plan. However, it's wise to review your current plan as benefits, costs, and provider networks may change for 2026. Your current plan might not be the best option anymore.

Q: Can I change my mind after enrolling in a new plan?

A: Yes, you can make changes during AEP (October 15 - December 7). Your last enrollment before December 7th will be the one that takes effect on January 1, 2026. After December 7th, you'll generally be locked into your choice until next year's AEP.

Q: How much does it cost to work with a Medicare broker?

A: Working with a licensed Medicare broker like myself is completely free to you. We're compensated by the insurance companies, not by you. This means you get expert guidance at no cost to help you find the best plan for your needs.

Q: What if I miss the December 7th deadline?

A: If you miss the AEP deadline, you'll generally be stuck with your current plan for 2026, unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) due to certain life events like moving, losing coverage, or qualifying for extra help.

⚠️ Important Disclaimers

American Senior Choices is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to the plans we do offer. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program to get information on all your options.