Can I Change Medicare Advantage Plans During Open Enrollment More Than Once?
Yes. During Medicare Open Enrollment, October 15 through December 7, you can change Medicare Advantage plans during Open Enrollment more than once. Generally, the last plan choice received by December 7 is the one that takes effect on January 1, 2027. Your earlier choice is simply replaced.
That matters this year in Meridian and across the Treasure Valley. Plenty of people enrolled early, especially Saint Alphonsus members whose plans end after 2026, and then heard about another option from a neighbor, a friend or a mailer. If you picked a plan and now have second thoughts, you're not locked in yet. I'm Mitch Lyman, an independent Medicare broker in Meridian, and I'm happy to take a second look with you by phone before the deadline.
How to change Medicare Advantage plans during Open Enrollment
You don't have to cancel the first plan. Enrolling in a different Medicare Advantage plan automatically ends your enrollment in the earlier one.
The last choice counts. Generally, whichever enrollment the plan receives last, by December 7, is the one Medicare uses.
Your new plan starts January 1. There's no gap in coverage when you switch during Open Enrollment.
Expect some extra mail. You may get letters from both plans for a few weeks. Keep the paperwork from your final choice, and call me if anything looks confusing.
Before you switch again, check these three things
Changing your mind is fine. Changing it twice without checking the details is how people end up surprised in January. Before you make a second switch, make sure the new plan fits:
Your doctors and hospital. Networks differ from one insurance company to the next, even between plans from the same company.
Your prescriptions and pharmacy. A drug that's covered on one plan may cost more, or need extra approval, on another.
Your total yearly cost. Look past the monthly premium to copays and the most you could pay out of pocket.
This is the part I do for you. I work with several insurance companies in the Treasure Valley, so I can compare your top choices side by side and tell you plainly if your first pick was already the right one. You can read more about the Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans available in Idaho for 2027.
What if you miss December 7?
December 7 is the last day for most people to make changes for 2027. If you're in a Medicare Advantage plan on January 1, there's a second window, January 1 through March 31, but it allows only one change. That's why it pays to get it right now.
If your current plan is ending, you may have extra time. My post on what to do if your Medicare Advantage plan is ending explains those rights, and Saint Alphonsus members can see my 2027 options for Saint Alphonsus Medicare Advantage members. Medicare's own Open Enrollment page on Medicare.gov covers the official dates.
Get a second opinion before the deadline
Whether you live in Meridian, Boise, Nampa or anywhere in the Treasure Valley, a quick phone review can confirm your choice or catch a problem while there's still time to fix it. My help doesn't cost you anything extra. Call or text (208) 963-0333, or send me a message. You can also learn why people work with a local independent broker or review the Medicare Open Enrollment basics.
Frequently asked questions
Can I change my Medicare Advantage plan after I already enrolled for 2027?
Yes. Until December 7, you can enroll in a different Medicare Advantage plan, and it generally replaces your earlier choice.
Which plan counts if I enroll in two Medicare Advantage plans?
Generally, the last enrollment received by December 7 is the one that takes effect.
When does my new Medicare Advantage plan start?
Changes made during Open Enrollment start January 1, 2027.
We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent 8 organizations which offer 23 products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.
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