Updated on Sep. 24, 2025
Open Enrollment season is almost here. Whether you're already on Medicare, about to turn 65, or still covered by a commercial plan, now is the moment to review your options. With healthcare costs rising, changes coming to the exchange, and more people enrolling in Medicare than ever before, it’s crucial to ensure you’re getting the best care for the year ahead.
This is the one time a year when you can adjust your health plan to fit your changing needs—whether due to shifts in health, doctor availability, or premiums. Open Enrollment gives you the opportunity to make sure your coverage is aligned with your lifestyle.
According to the California Department of Health Care Services, the number of Medicare beneficiaries in California is expected to grow by nearly 1 million over the next five years, driven by the aging population. As this group ages, many will transition from commercial health plans to Medicare, and the demand for Medicare Advantage plans—supplemental health insurance on top of “basic Medicare” – is expected to increase.
With the aging population and many adults stuck in the sandwich generation balancing caregiving for both children and aging parents, the need for flexible, affordable healthcare has never been greater. If you’re under 65 and nearing Medicare eligibility, now is the time to start planning your transition. As many commercial plans offer limited coverage for older adults, Medicare Advantage can provide better options, especially for those managing both personal and caregiving health needs.
Whether you’re already enrolled in Medicare or preparing to sign up, now is the perfect time to review your current plan and ensure it still meets your needs for the upcoming year. Here's a quick breakdown of what each part covers:
- Part A covers hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home health services.
- Part B covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, and medical equipment.
- Part C (Medicare Advantage) combines Parts A and B and often includes additional benefits like dental, vision, hearing, and prescription drug coverage.
- Part D provides coverage for prescription medications and is often bundled into Medicare Advantage plans. Part D prescription drug costs are expected to rise for some plans in 2026. Reviewing your current coverage now may help you avoid higher out-of-pocket expenses next year.
With MemorialCare, you’ll gain access to an extensive network of trusted doctors, specialists, and hospitals. Our flexible plans allow you to change your doctor at any time, ensuring you receive care that fits your needs. In addition, MemorialCare has a suite of virtual health options available to you.
MemorialCare’s 24/7 virtual care offers Californians access to a range of virtual care options – no MemorialCare affiliation required – all fully HIPAA-compliant to protect patient privacy. Free services include a 24/7 symptom checker and AI-powered chat, or access to a live 24/7 call center for guidance from care associates. Care is provided by MemorialCare clinicians, including nurse practitioners, physician assistants and medical doctors.
Open Enrollment ends on December 7, so it’s crucial to act before the deadline. Contact me today at (714) 698-4003 or email MAsupport@memorialcare.org.