Before You Switch Medicare Advantage Plans, Make These 7 Phone Calls

Before switching Medicare Advantage plans for 2027, retirees should verify their doctors, prescriptions, hospitals, and out-of-pocket costs. Seven phone calls could prevent expensive surprises after enrollment. BrightGridVisuals/Shutterstock

A Medicare Advantage plan offering a lower premium, generous dental benefits, or a grocery allowance might look like an obvious upgrade, but switching plans without checking the details could become an expensive mistake. Your favorite doctor might disappear from your network, a prescription could cost considerably more, or a medical procedure you’ve already scheduled might suddenly require additional approval.

With Medicare Open Enrollment running from October 15 through December 7, 2026, millions of beneficiaries have an opportunity to reconsider their coverage for 2027. However, comparing Medicare Advantage plans involves more than looking at monthly premiums and advertised benefits. Before making a decision, these seven phone calls could help protect your healthcare access, avoid unexpected bills, and determine whether switching Medicare Advantage plans actually makes financial sense.