The clock is ticking for those needing to select a Medicare Advantage Plan, and here’s what you should keep in mind.

As we grow older, having health insurance tailored to our personal needs and lifestyle becomes increasingly crucial. This is a significant period for decision-making, especially for those who have Medicare or are assisting loved ones who qualify. The annual enrollment period, which runs until December 7, allows eligible individuals to select a Medicare Advantage or Prescription Drug Plan for 2026.

With a variety of plans available, the process may seem daunting. To help navigate this choice, Jeremy Gaskill, President of Illinois Medicare at Humana, provides expert advice on how to research and choose an appropriate plan.

What is Medicare and what should people know about selecting a plan for 2026?

Medicare serves as health insurance for people aged 65 and above, and for younger individuals who qualify due to specific disabilities. There are two primary forms: Original Medicare, a government-provided plan covering medical expenses and doctor visits, and Medicare Advantage plans, offered by private insurers like Humana. These Advantage plans cover everything that Original Medicare does and may include additional perks such as dental, vision, or hearing benefits.

What other benefits come with a Medicare Advantage plan?

Choosing Medicare Advantage means that your covered medical expenses, including doctor visits and urgent care, will not exceed a predetermined maximum out-of-pocket amount. These plans provide access to extensive networks of healthcare providers, hospitals, and pharmacies. Some even offer rewards for engaging in healthy activities like completing preventive screenings. The predictability of costs and consistency of benefits in Medicare Advantage plans empower members to manage their healthcare needs with assurance.

How do primary care and preventive care fit into a Medicare Advantage plan?

Primary care is the foundation of good health – it’s where you get regular checkups, manage ongoing health issues and build a relationship with a provider who understands you and your health history. Despite its importance, a recent survey revealed that more than half of those aged 65 and over are not regularly seeing a primary care provider. Regular checkups and preventive screenings are critical to helping maintain long-term wellness and stay independent for as long as possible. With regular checkups you can get key preventive and diagnostic screenings, such as breast, colorectal and bone density.

What are Dual Eligible Special Needs plans, and who qualifies for them?

Dual-eligible means you qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid. That’s where D-SNPs, or Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans, come in. These are Medicare Advantage plans designed specifically for people with both types of coverage. D-SNPs help coordinate benefits under one plan, making it easier to manage care. These plans often include extra support with things like prescription drugs, dental, vision, hearing and help paying for covered over-the-counter items like vitamins, pain relievers and first aid supplies.*Some D-SNP plans also offer support with groceries, utilities, rent and more if you have an eligible chronic condition that meets certain criteria.

Between now and Dec. 7, it is essential that you carefully review your options and consider what makes the most sense for you, your lifestyle and your healthcare needs, so you can enter 2026 with confidence and focus on living life to the fullest.

For more information, visit Humana.com/Dual.

Humana is a Medicare Advantage HMO, PPO and PFFS organization. Humana is also a Dual Eligible Special Needs HMO SNP, PPO SNP plan with a Medicare contract and a contract with the state Medicaid program. Enrollment in any Humana plan depends on contract renewal.

*This spending allowance is a special program for members with specific health conditions. Qualifying conditions include diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disorders, chronic and disabling mental health conditions, chronic lung disorders, or chronic heart failure, among others. Some plans require at least two conditions and other requirements apply. See the plan’s Evidence of Coverage for details. If you use this program for rent or utilities, Housing and Urban Development (HUD) requires it to be reported as income if you seek assistance. Contact your local HUD office if you have questions. Y0040_ GHHMVBAEN _M