With just over two weeks left in the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), which ends December 7, AAA has been busy fielding calls from Medicare recipients. AAA recommends they sit down with a professional advisor to evaluate Medicare plans, possible changes, and options to meet individual needs and budget. Various plan terminations and coverage concerns in Buffalo and Rochester markets in particular are creating an urgent need for recipients to stay informed and proactive.

“With more than 80 plans to choose from, entering the world of Medicare can lead to more questions than answers,” explained AAA Insurance Manager David Kirst. “Don’t set it and forget it. Plans may have changed, along with individual needs, so my biggest point of advice is to talk to someone to help you through it.”

Changes to Medicare plans can impact key aspects of healthcare including choice of doctor, prescription drug coverage, and cost. Therefore, it is very important for recipients to review Medicare plan coverage options for 2026 to ensure that they are enrolled in a plan that best meets their health care needs. AAA’s Medicare advisors can guide individuals to ensure they receive adequate coverage.

Medicare is the federal insurance program for people who are 65 or older or certain younger people with disabilities. AEP is the time of year when anyone who is Medicare eligible can make changes to plans by the December 7 deadline. Those whose plans have been canceled get a bit more leeway, with re-enrollment available until the end of 2025.

AAA partners with many different insurance carriers to offer a wide range of options so that recipients can maximize what their plan offers. Unlike many providers, AAA doesn’t work for insurance carriers, so advisors can offer unbiased assistance to help recipients find a Medicare plan to meet their needs. Services are available to all Medicare eligible individuals in the community, both AAA members and nonmembers alike.

AAA Medicare simplifies Medicare with a no-cost review by dedicated, licensed insurance agents with in-depth knowledge of Medicare. Here’s how AAA simplifies Medicare AEP for those in need:

 •    Step 1: Listening. Medicare recipients can talk to licensed agents from AAA about preferred doctors and hospitals, prescription medications, and additional benefits. 
•    Step 2: Shop and compare. AAA will take a deep dive to compare the benefits and costs of existing Medicare plans with other options that could possibly save people money. 
•    Step 3: Unbiased reviews. AAA recommendations are always impartial and made with best interests at heart. 
•    Step 4: Enrollment. If an existing plan is still the best fit for a client, they’re done. If they decide to make a change, AAA will get you enrolled.

The public can learn more by visiting www.AAA.com/Medicare to schedule an appointment online.