Medicare 2026 enrollment brings higher costs, fewer choices

Seniors shopping for Medicare coverage this year may face their toughest choices yet as many plans now come with higher costs, fewer perks, and tighter provider networks.

The enrollment opened in October, and for the second year in a row, major insurers are dropping plans, trimming benefits, and raising out-of-pocket limits to protect profits amid rising medical costs.

Experts warn that small changes can trigger big surprises. Seniors could lose access to trusted doctors, face higher hospital copays, or pay more for prescription drugs. 

According to a health policy researcher at KFF, enrollment in Medicare Advantage plans is expected to decline in 2026 for the first time in 15 years.

Drug coverage presents another challenge. The number of stand-alone Part D plans continues to shrink, while deductibles and coinsurance charges rise. Extra perks like grocery credits and fitness benefits are also disappearing from many plans.

Advisers urge seniors to review plan documents carefully, confirm provider networks directly, and compare drug costs on Medicare.gov. Doing homework now can help avoid costly mistakes later.