Medicare Annual Enrollment Dates Are Earlier

Medicare annual enrollment is a time-sensitive matter. Every year there is a set time during which people can enroll in or switch Medicare plans.

This year's time frame starts one month earlier on October 15 and ends three weeks earlier on December 7.

Original Medicare includes Part A (hospital stays) and Part B (doctor visits). You can also add on a Medicare supplement product or Part D prescription drug plan.

Or you can choose a Medicare Advantage Plan, which can combine the coverage of original Medicare with Part D, and offer extra benefits such as vision, hearing and dental coverage.

Medicare Advantage plans are open to everyone who's eligible for Medicare, regardless of health status*. You can't be refused for pre-existing conditions, and plan premiums don't vary by age or health status. There are no physicals or health questionnaires. And all Medicare Advantage plans have an out-of-pocket maximum to protect you from catastrophic costs.

* With the exception of people with end-stage renal disease.

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