AEP Is Open — How to Compare Medicare Advantage Plans in Orlando for 2027

The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period is open. From October 15 through December 7, you have the opportunity to review your current Medicare coverage and switch to a plan that may serve you better in 2027.

Here's how to compare Medicare Advantage plans the right way — and what to watch out for.

Step 1: Review Your Current Plan's Annual Notice of Change

Every Medicare Advantage plan is required to mail you an Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) by September 30. This document details every change to your plan for the coming year — premiums, deductibles, copays, drug formulary changes, and network updates.

Step 2: Verify Your Doctors Are Still In-Network

Provider networks change annually. Before renewing your current plan, confirm that your primary care physician, specialists, and preferred hospitals are still included in the network for 2027.

Switching providers mid-year because your plan dropped them is avoidable — verify before December 7.

Step 3: Run a Prescription Drug Check

Drug formularies — the list of medications a plan covers — change every year. Pull out your medication list and verify each drug is still on your plan's formulary for 2027, and at what cost tier.

A plan that covered your medications at Tier 2 this year may move them to Tier 3 or higher next year — a significant out-of-pocket difference.

Step 4: Compare Extra Benefits

Medicare Advantage plan benefits evolve year to year. New plans in your area may offer stronger dental coverage, higher OTC allowances, or better fitness benefits than your current plan. Don't assume your current plan is still the most competitive option.

Step 5: Work With a Local Independent Agent

Medicare.gov lets you compare plans by filter — but it doesn't tell you which plan is right for you. A licensed independent agent reviews your complete situation: your doctors, your prescriptions, your health history, and your budget — then presents your best options side by side.

I've done this for Central Florida seniors for over 14 years. AEP moves fast — don't wait until December.