Many health insurance plans have open enrollment periods in the last quarter of the year. During open enrollment, you can add or change your insurance coverage without paying a penalty. It’s important time to review your coverage and select the plan that will best meet your needs for the coming year.

Marketplace health insurance
The open enrollment period for the individual health insurance marketplace begins Monday, Nov. 1 and ends Jan. 15 in most states. Some states have extended the deadline to Jan. 31. To ensure your coverage begins Jan. 1, 2022, submit your application by Dec. 15, 2021.

Learn more about available plans, and apply for coverage. Need help with your application? Find a trained marketplace navigator in your area.

Medicare
Medicare’s annual election period began Oct. 15 and ends Dec. 7. Although Medicare doesn’t require you to re-enroll to continue receiving benefits, it’s a good idea to take advantage of Medicare’s annual election period. You can review your benefits and make changes to your coverage.

Reviewing your benefits is especially important for Medicare Part D beneficiaries, as many health insurance plans change formularies and benefits from year to year. Check the covered medications on your formulary to ensure your plan will cover your medication or treatment at the same rate in 2022.

Review PHA’s resources on Medicare, and enroll or update your coverage.

General resources
Visit PHA’s insurance resources for guidance on choosing a health plan.

For one-on-one support about your plan options, contact the Patient Advocacy Foundation at (800) 532-5274.