Medicare's Open Enrollment Period Is Only a Month Away. 3 Things to Do Now to Prepare.

The 2027 Medicare Open Enrollment Period runs from Oct. 15, 2026, to Dec. 7, 2026, and it's most people's only chance to change their Medicare coverage for next year. It's important to take this seriously, as the policies you choose could significantly affect your healthcare costs and budget.

If you want the Open Enrollment process to go as smoothly as possible, here are three things worth doing within the next few weeks to prepare yourself.

Image source: Getty Images.

1. Review your current insurance coverage, and note likes and dislikes

Look over your current Medicare and supplemental health insurance policies, and note which aspects of them you like and which you'd like to change, if possible. Think about coverage options, in-network doctors, prescription medications, cost, and customer support.

Keep an eye out for information from plan providers about changes to your existing policies for 2027. Review this carefully. If there are any major changes you don't like, that could be a reason to switch policies during the Open Enrollment Period.

2. Make a list of the medications and services you'll need covered in 2027

Start making a list of your must-have coverage options so you can quickly weed out plans that don't include the services and medications you need. Record all the medications you're taking or that you think you may need in the coming year.

If you know you have an upcoming procedure or will need to see a certain specialist, note this as well. Check all plan options you're considering to make sure they'll cover these services.

3. Figure out how much you can afford to spend on premiums and deductibles

Note what your current premiums and deductibles are, and once you know what your plan(s) will charge next year, record the new prices as well. Then, think about how much you could afford to pay each month for retirement healthcare costs.

You can use this to weed out plans that are out of your price range right from the start. Combined with the other information you recorded in the previous steps, you should be able to quickly narrow your options to a handful of plans that best suit your needs. Then, you can dive deeper into the policy details of each to see which offers the greatest value.

It's best to start this process soon after the Open Enrollment Period begins so you have plenty of time to review your options. Mark the start date on your calendar so you won't forget.

The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.