How often can members change their Medicare Advantage plan?

Members can change their Medicare Advantage plan during specific times designated by the Medicare program, primarily during the Annual Election Period (AEP) and during special enrollment periods (SEPs). The AEP occurs each year from October 15 to December 7, during which beneficiaries can enroll in, switch, or drop their Medicare Advantage plans as well as make changes to their Part D prescription drug plans.

Special Enrollment Periods allow members to make changes outside the AEP due to specific qualifying events, such as moving out of the plan's service area, losing other health coverage, or certain life events like marriage or the death of a spouse. This structure provides flexibility for members to adjust their coverage as their health and life circumstances change, ensuring they can access the most appropriate and effective healthcare services available to them.

The other options do not accurately reflect the established rules governing when changes to Medicare Advantage plans can be made. Hence, understanding the timing of these enrollment opportunities is critical for beneficiaries to ensure they are enrolled in a plan that meets their needs.