You can switch Medicare Advantage Plans during Fall Open Enrollment (Fall Open Enrollment is sometimes referred to as the Annual Coordinated Election Period – ACEP) which runs from October 15 through December 7 in 2016. Your new coverage starts January 1.
During this period you can change your choice of health coverage, and add, drop or change Medicare drug coverage. You can make as many changes as you need during this period, but only your last coverage choice will take effect January 1. However, to avoid enrollment problems, it is best to make as few changes as possible. Even if you are satisfied with your current Medicare coverage, look at other Medicare options in your area and compare them with your present coverage to see which plan will best suit your needs in the upcoming year.
Research shows that people with Part D or Medicare Advantage Plans could lower their costs by shopping among plans each year. For example, another Part D plan in your area may cover the drugs you take with fewer restrictions and charge you less.
Note: If you are changing plans to join a Medicare Medical Savings Accounts (MSA), you can usually only do so during the Fall Open Enrollment Period.