Autumn in Charlotte brings crisp air, fall colors, and the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), a critical time for seniors to review and adjust their Medicare coverage. If you’re approaching 65 or are already enrolled in Medicare, here’s what you need to know before AEP kicks off on October 15.
This guide offers non-promotional, educational insights — tailored to the Charlotte community — to help you or your loved ones make smart, confident choices during the enrollment window.
Understanding the Basics of Medicare
Before we dive into changes and strategies, let’s review the building blocks of Medicare:
- Part A: Covers inpatient hospital stays, hospice, and some skilled nursing care.
- Part B: Covers outpatient services, like doctor visits, lab work, and preventive care.
- Part C (Medicare Advantage): Private plans that bundle Parts A and B (and often D), usually with extra benefits.
- Part D: Prescription drug coverage plans offered by private insurers.
- Medigap (Supplement Plans): Optional plans that help cover deductibles, coinsurance, and other out-of-pocket costs not paid by Original Medicare.
What Is the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)?
The Annual Enrollment Period runs from October 15 to December 7 each year. During this time, Medicare beneficiaries can:
- Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C)
- Switch from a Medicare Advantage plan back to Original Medicare
- Change from one Medicare Advantage plan to another
- Join, drop, or switch a Part D (prescription drug) plan
Important: Any changes made during AEP go into effect on January 1 of the following year.
Why AEP Matters More Than Ever in 2025
Health care costs continue to evolve, and so do plan benefits. That’s why seniors in Charlotte — especially those with chronic conditions or new diagnoses — should not assume their current plan will stay the same.
Each year, Medicare Advantage and Part D plans can change:
- Monthly premiums
- Deductibles
- Co-pays and cost-sharing
- Drug formularies (which prescriptions are covered)
- In-network doctors and hospitals
- Supplemental benefits (like dental, vision, transportation, etc.)
Even if you’re happy with your plan, it’s smart to double-check. A medication you take today may no longer be covered in the same way next year.
Who Should Pay Special Attention This Year?
✅ People Turning 65 Soon
If your 65th birthday is approaching — or you’re within 3 months of it — you may qualify for Initial Enrollment, which is different from AEP but runs alongside it. Many new enrollees make rushed decisions that lead to surprise costs later. Use this time to educate yourself or speak with a licensed advisor.
✅ Seniors on Medicare Advantage Plans
If you’re already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, now is the time to evaluate whether your plan still fits your needs. In Mecklenburg County alone, dozens of Advantage plans are available — all with different networks, benefits, and costs.
✅ People Managing Chronic Conditions
Conditions like diabetes, heart disease, COPD, and arthritis can result in high medical expenses if your coverage doesn’t align. Look for Chronic Condition Special Needs Plans (C-SNPs) or Advantage plans with targeted programs and savings.
Tips for Charlotte Seniors During AEP
1. Use the Medicare Plan Finder
Go to Medicare.gov and use the “Plan Finder” tool. You can input your prescriptions, preferred pharmacies, and doctors to compare plans side-by-side.
2. Watch Out for Scams
AEP is a peak season for Medicare-related phone scams. Remember:
- Medicare will never call and ask for your Social Security number or bank info.
- Don’t respond to unsolicited offers or door-to-door visits.
- Work only with licensed, local, or well-reviewed advisors.
3. Review the Annual Notice of Change
Each fall, your current Medicare plan will mail you a document called the Annual Notice of Change (ANOC). This outlines changes to your premiums, coverage, and benefits for next year.
4. Ask Your Doctors About Network Participation
If you’re switching to (or staying on) a Medicare Advantage plan, verify that your preferred physicians and hospitals will remain in-network for 2025.
5. Look for Local Help
Charlotte offers excellent resources for seniors:
- Centralina Area Agency on Aging
- Council on Aging in Union County
- North Carolina SHIIP Program (Seniors’ Health Insurance Information Program)
These non-profit programs offer free, unbiased Medicare counseling.
Don’t Wait Until the Deadline
The AEP window is only open for 54 days. If you wait too long, you could be stuck with a plan that doesn’t meet your needs — or worse, no drug coverage at all.
Start reviewing your options early (even now), and make any plan changes by December 7 to ensure coverage kicks in on January 1, 2026.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a Medicare plan isn’t just about coverage — it’s about control, peace of mind, and making sure you’re not overpaying for the care you need. Whether you’re turning 65, managing a health condition, or just want to be sure your 2025 coverage still fits — this AEP is your chance to act.
Charlotte’s growing senior population deserves clarity and confidence. Use this season to get informed, ask questions, and make Medicare work better for you.
This content is courtesy of Safeguard Benefit Services, a Medicare-focused agency serving Charlotte and surrounding North Carolina communities. For personalized guidance during AEP, visit SafeguardBenefitServices.com or call (888) 298-4002.
Matt Corrigan is a Medicare educator, licensed Medicare Insurance Agent, and founder of Safeguard Benefit Services. He and his team help seniors across Charlotte and North Carolina navigate Medicare with clarity and confidence. From Medicare Advantage to prescription drug plans and supplemental coverage, Matt is passionate about simplifying the process so individuals can make informed choices that truly fit their lives.
Contact: SafeguardBenefitServices.com | (888) 298-4002
