Medicare Open Enrollment doesn’t begin until October 15, but waiting until then to figure out what you need can turn plan comparison into a frustrating scavenger hunt. Your prescriptions may have changed, you’ve probably visited different doctors, and the plan that worked perfectly in January might not look nearly as attractive heading into 2027. Medicare specifically reminds beneficiaries that costs, benefits, providers, health conditions, and prescription needs can change from one year to the next. The good news is that you don’t need 2027 plan details yet to begin your Medicare Open Enrollment preparation. Gather these seven things now, and you’ll have the information necessary to make a much more informed comparison when it’s time to choose coverage.