Medicare open enrollment dates and new marketing rules announced

Medicare open enrollment for the upcoming cycle runs from October 15 through December 7. During this period, current enrollees can make changes to their coverage, such as switching Part D drug plans or moving to new Medicare Advantage plans.

New federal rules effective October 1 change how insurance agents may interact with potential enrollees. The previous requirements for a 12-hour gap between free educational events and sales pitches, as well as a 48-hour waiting period after signing a Scope of Appointment form, have been removed. Agents may now collect contact information and Scope of Appointment forms during educational events.

Experts advise enrollees to review their annual notice of change, which typically arrives in late September, as provider networks and prescription drug tiers can shift annually. Additionally, spouses are not required to be on the same Medicare plan, and individual medical needs should dictate coverage choices rather than the convenience of shared plans.