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Lower Premiums
Medicare Advantage and Part D premiums are projected to decrease in 2026.
$2,100 Drug Cap
Out-of-pocket prescription costs capped at $2,100 for 2026.
Medicare continues to evolve each year. For Vancouver and Clark County seniors, staying informed about 2026 changes helps you make confident decisions about your coverage. Here’s a clear overview of what’s new.
Premium Changes for 2026
According to CMS and industry reports, many beneficiaries will see lower premiums for Medicare Advantage and Part D in 2026. Medicare Part B premiums and deductibles have increased, so reviewing your overall costs is important.
| Plan Type | 2026 Trend |
|---|---|
| Medicare Advantage | Average premiums projected to decrease |
| Part D (Standalone) | Average premiums projected to decrease |
| Part B | Premiums and deductibles increased |
Actual premiums vary by plan and location. Use Medicare.gov or work with a licensed broker to compare options in your area.
$2,100 Prescription Drug Cap
The Inflation Reduction Act’s out-of-pocket cap of $2,100 for Part D enrollees is in effect for 2026. Once you reach this amount in a year, you enter the catastrophic phase with no additional cost sharing for covered drugs.
This cap can provide significant relief for people with high medication costs. If you take expensive prescriptions, reviewing your Part D or Medicare Advantage plan’s formulary each year remains important.
Open Enrollment Period (OEP) 2026
If you have Medicare Advantage or Part D and want to switch, the Open Enrollment Period runs January 1 through March 31, 2026. Changes typically take effect the first of the month after your request.
OEP 2026 at a Glance
- •Dates: January 1 – March 31, 2026
- •Who qualifies: People with Medicare Advantage or Part D
- •Options: Switch to another MA plan, return to Original Medicare, or change Part D
For a deeper look at OEP, see our OEP 2026 guide and OEP vs AEP comparison.
New CMS Protections for 2026
CMS has finalized policy updates that affect how Medicare Advantage plans operate. These changes are designed to improve transparency and access to care.
Prior Authorization & Appeals
Plans face stricter limits on reversing previously approved inpatient admissions. Appeals rights for coverage decisions are clarified for services before, during, and after care.
Marketing Protections
CMS has addressed misleading marketing practices and improved consumer tools on Medicare.gov to help beneficiaries compare plans more easily.
Supplemental Benefits Guardrails
Special Supplemental Benefits for the Chronically Ill (SSBCI) now have clearer rules. Non-allowable benefits such as tobacco, alcohol, and life insurance are barred.
What This Means for Vancouver & Clark County
Local networks like PeaceHealth, Legacy, MultiCare, and Kaiser continue to partner with Medicare Advantage plans. Plan availability and benefits vary by county, so comparing options in your specific area matters.
An independent broker can help you compare Medicare Advantage plans in Vancouver, Supplement, and Part D—at no cost to you. We work with multiple carriers to find options that fit your doctors, medications, and budget.
Have Questions About Your 2026 Coverage?
Get educational information about Medicare options. Independent brokers provide access to multiple plans from various carriers.
Related Articles
Compare plans: Medicare Advantage • Medicare Supplement • Vancouver office
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