Why Did My Medicare Plan Change in January?

What Green Valley & Sahuarita Seniors Should Know in February

If you recently received new Medicare plan documents, new ID cards, or noticed changes in your premiums, doctor network, or prescription costs, you’re not alone.

Each year, Medicare Advantage plans, Medicare Supplement plans, and Part D prescription drug plans can change on January 1. Even if you didn’t switch plans during the Annual Enrollment Period, your current plan may have adjusted its benefits, provider networks, or drug formulary for the new year.

Here are some common changes seniors in Green Valley and Sahuarita are seeing right now:

1. Prescription Drug Costs Changed

Part D formularies are updated annually. Your medication may have moved to a different tier, which can affect your copay.

2. Doctor or Specialist Is No Longer In-Network

Medicare Advantage plans can update their provider networks each year.

3. Monthly Premium Adjustments

Some plans adjust premiums, deductibles, or maximum out-of-pocket limits at the start of the year.

4. Extra Benefits Were Modified

Dental, vision, hearing, or over-the-counter allowances sometimes change from year to year.

If something feels different about your Medicare coverage in 2026, it’s important to review your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) and confirm how your current plan is structured for this year.

In some cases, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period depending on your situation.

If you live in Green Valley, Sahuarita, or Southern Arizona and have questions about your current Medicare plan, speaking with a licensed local Medicare broker can help you understand your options and ensure your coverage still fits your needs.

Turning 65 in Green Valley or Sahuarita? Your Local Medicare Guide Starts Here

If you live in Green Valley, Sahuarita, or anywhere in Southern Arizona, and you're getting close to turning 65, chances are you're starting to hear a lot about Medicare, and you’ve got questions. Maybe you’ve received dozens of mailers, been invited to Medicare seminars, or had well-meaning friends tell you what you "should" do. It can feel overwhelming fast.

As a licensed independent Medicare broker based in Southern Arizona, I help people just like you every day make confident, informed decisions about their Medicare options. If you’re looking for local, trustworthy guidance, you’re in the right place.

Let’s break down what you need to know.

1. What Happens When You Turn 65 in Arizona?

When you turn 65, you’re eligible for Medicare—a federal health insurance program for people 65 and older. In Arizona, you have several options to choose from, including:

• Original Medicare (Parts A & B)

• Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C)

• Medicare Supplement Plans (Medigap)

• Prescription Drug Plans (Part D)

Each has pros and cons depending on your health needs, budget, and lifestyle, and not all plans are the same in Green Valley or Sahuarita as they are in Phoenix or Tucson.

2. Why Work with a Local Medicare Broker in Green Valley or Sahuarita?

Here in Southern Arizona, healthcare needs and insurance options are different than those in other parts of the country. Working with a local, licensed Medicare agent means you get:

• Personalized help choosing the right plan for your area

• Clear explanations without the jargon

• Ongoing support, even after you enroll

• Peace of mind that someone is advocating for you

I don’t work for any one insurance company. I work for you.

3. Your Medicare Timeline: Don’t Miss These Key Dates

If you're turning 65 soon, your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) begins 3 months before your 65th birthday, includes your birthday month, and ends 3 months after.

That 7-month window is the best time to enroll to avoid penalties and get the most coverage options. I always recommend starting early so we can review your choices without feeling rushed.

4. What Medicare Options Are Popular in Southern Arizona?

Many residents in Green Valley and Sahuarita choose Medicare Advantage plans that offer extras like dental, vision, and wellness benefits, while others prefer the flexibility of Original Medicare + a Supplement plan. It depends on:

• Which doctors or clinics you want to keep

• How often you travel

• Whether you take prescriptions

• Your monthly budget

My job is to help you compare plans, explain the trade-offs, and make the choice that fits your life, not someone else’s.

5. Questions I Hear Most Often in Green Valley & Sahuarita

 Do I need a Medicare Supplement or a Medicare Advantage Plan?
What if I’m still working at 65?
How do I avoid Medicare penalties?
Can I keep my doctor?
What about dental, vision, or hearing coverage?

I offer free consultations to answer all of these and more. No pressure. Just clarity.

Let’s Make Medicare Simple.

If you’re in Green Valley, Sahuarita, or anywhere in Southern Arizona, and feeling unsure about Medicare, I’m here to help. You don’t need to figure this out on your own. I’ll walk you through every step, answer every question, and make sure you’re set up with the coverage that works best for you.

Schedule a free consultation today or explore more resources right here on the blog.

(520)909-3677

5 Things People Get Wrong About Medicare – Especially in Southern Arizona

If you're approaching 65 and live in Green Valley, Sahuarita, or anywhere in Southern Arizona, you're probably starting to hear all kinds of advice about Medicare. Unfortunately, much of it is outdated, incomplete, or simply incorrect.

As a local, licensed Medicare broker, I’ve helped hundreds of people sort fact from fiction and avoid costly mistakes. Let’s clear up some common myths I often hear.

1. I’ll be enrolled automatically at 65.

Not always.

Some people are auto-enrolled in Medicare at 65 (especially if they’re already receiving Social Security), but many are not. If you’re not collecting benefits yet, you’ll likely need to sign up manually to avoid coverage gaps or penalties.

Local tip: Don’t wait for a letter. Mark your calendar and take action 3 months before your 65th birthday.

2. All Medicare plans are basically the same.

Not even close.

There are big differences between Original Medicare, Advantage Plans, Supplement Plans, and Prescription Drug Plans, and even more variation by ZIP code. A plan that works well for someone in Phoenix might not work the same in Green Valley.

Local insight: In Southern Arizona, provider networks and benefit extras can vary block by block. It's worth reviewing your specific needs.

3. I should just pick the cheapest plan.

Not if you want peace of mind.

Low monthly premiums sound great—until you realize the plan doesn’t cover your medications or your doctor is out-of-network. The cheapest plan isn’t always the best value.

I always encourage people to look at the big picture: total costs, convenience, and how you actually use healthcare.

4. I don’t need to think about Medicare until my birthday.

You might already be in your enrollment window.

Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) begins 3 months before your 65th birthday and ends 3 months after. That 7-month window goes fast, and if you miss it, you could face penalties.

Pro tip: The earlier we talk, the more options you’ll have.

5. I can’t ask anyone for help unless I’m ready to sign up.

Not true. You can ask anytime.**

I offer free, no-pressure consultations to help you understand your options, timelines, and next steps—whether you’re ready to enroll or not. There’s no obligation, just clear answers.

Whether you're still working, retiring soon, or just trying to make sense of it all, I'm here to help.

Let’s Make Medicare Clear, Not Confusing

Medicare doesn’t have to be complicated, and you don’t have to figure it out alone. If you’re turning 65 in Green Valley, Sahuarita, or Southern Arizona, I’d be honored to guide you through it.

Call or text me anytime:
(520) 909-3677

When Can You Enroll in Medicare? Key Deadlines Southern Arizona Residents Can’t Miss

If you’re turning 65 in Green Valley, Sahuarita, Tucson, or anywhere in Southern Arizona, Medicare deadlines can feel overwhelming. Many people miss important enrollment windows simply because they don’t know when to act. The truth is that Medicare has several different enrollment periods, and missing one can result in late penalties, gaps in coverage, or limited plan options.

As a local licensed Medicare broker, I’ll walk you through the key enrollment periods you need to know, with simple explanations and local tips to keep you on track.

1. Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): Your First Chance

• When it happens: 3 months before your 65th birthday, your birthday month, and 3 months after (a 7-month window).

• Why it matters: This is your best chance to enroll without penalties.

• What you can do: Sign up for Medicare Part A, Part B, and choose whether you want a Supplement, Advantage, or Prescription Drug plan.

Local Tip: Don’t wait until your birthday month. In Green Valley and Sahuarita, plans can fill quickly, and starting early gives you more choices.

2. General Enrollment Period (GEP): If You Missed the First Window

• When it happens: January 1 – March 31 each year.

• Coverage begins: July 1.

• Why it matters: If you missed your Initial Enrollment, this is your backup — but penalties may apply.

Local Insight: Many people in Southern Arizona delay enrolling because they’re still working. Talking to a local broker can help you see if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period instead (which may save you from penalties).

3. Annual Enrollment Period (AEP): Review and Switch Plans

• When it happens: October 15 – December 7 every year.

• What you can do: Switch Medicare Advantage plans, move from Original Medicare to an Advantage plan (or vice versa), or change your Prescription Drug Plan.

• Why it matters: Plan benefits, provider networks, and drug formularies can change each year.

Local Tip: In Tucson and Green Valley, provider networks can vary by neighborhood. Don’t assume your current plan will cover the same doctors next year.

4. Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment (MA OEP)

• When it happens: January 1 – March 31.

• What you can do: If you already have a Medicare Advantage plan, you can switch to another Advantage plan or go back to Original Medicare (with a Part D drug plan).

• Why it matters: It’s a second chance if your plan isn’t meeting your needs.

5. Special Enrollment Periods (SEP): For Life Changes

• When it happens: Anytime you qualify.

• Examples:

  • Leaving employer coverage

  • Moving out of your plan’s service area

  • Losing other health coverage

• Why it matters: SEPs allow you to enroll without waiting for the General Enrollment or Annual Enrollment windows.

Local Insight: Retiring later is common in Southern Arizona. If you’re 67, 68, or older and just now leaving employer coverage, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period — no penalty.

6. Avoiding Medicare Penalties: Why Timing is Everything

• Part B penalty: Lasts for life if you delay without qualifying coverage.

• Part D penalty: Adds up the longer you go without prescription coverage.

• Local tip: I’ve seen too many neighbors in Green Valley hit with permanent penalties simply because they didn’t know their deadlines. A quick call with a broker can help you avoid this.

Conclusion: Don’t Miss Your Window

Medicare deadlines don’t have to be stressful, but you do need to know them. Whether you’re turning 65 soon, retiring later, or just trying to sort out your options, having a clear timeline makes all the difference.

If you live in Green Valley, Sahuarita, Tucson, or anywhere in Southern Arizona, I’d be honored to help you stay on track and avoid costly mistakes.

Schedule a free, no-pressure consultation today and let’s make Medicare simple.

Call or text: (520) 909-3677

Now That Medicare Open Enrollment Is Over… What Should You Do Next?

Medicare Open Enrollment ends quietly.
The rush of commercials disappears.
The mail slows down.
And for many people here in Green Valley and Sahuarita, the question becomes:

“What do I do now?”

If you enrolled in a plan during the October 15–December 7 window, the next few weeks are simply about making sure everything is in order so January 1 starts smoothly.

Here’s a simple guide to help you feel confident and prepared.

1. Keep an eye out for your new ID card.

Your plan will mail you a card—sometimes quickly, sometimes right at the end of the month.
When it arrives:

• Take a photo of the front and back

• Keep the physical card somewhere safe

• Watch for any plan welcome materials that explain your benefits

If the card hasn’t arrived by late December, don’t panic. Your plan can give you a temporary ID number if you need care before it arrives.

2. Confirm your doctors and pharmacy.

Even if we reviewed this together during your appointment, it’s always smart to double-check.

Look for:

• Your primary care provider

• Specialists you see regularly

• Your preferred pharmacy (whether local or mail order)

If something doesn’t look right, reach out. Sometimes it’s a simple directory update. Sometimes we may want to talk through your options for January.

3. Review your medications.

On January 1, your prescription coverage resets under your new plan.

Take a moment to:

• Make a list of your medications

• Check for any tier changes

• Ask your pharmacy if there’s a preferred option that could save you money

Unexpected pricing is one of the most common questions I get in January. If something surprises you, call me—we can sort it out.

4. Set up your online account (optional but helpful).

If you’re comfortable using computers, most plans have online portals where you can:

• View your claims

• Access your pharmacy benefits

• Print a temporary card

• Check your deductible and out-of-pocket totals

If you’d rather not set this up alone, I’m happy to walk you through it.

5. Know what can still be changed.

Once Open Enrollment ends:

• Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment (Jan 1–Mar 31) allows some people to make one change to a different Medicare Advantage plan.

• Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs) apply if you move, lose certain coverage, or experience qualifying life events.

You do not have to memorize any of this.
If something feels off—your doctor isn’t covered, your meds changed, or your bills look strange—reach out and we’ll review your options.

The bottom line:

You’re not alone in this.
Whether we worked together during Open Enrollment or you’re new here and just have questions, you’re welcome to reach out anytime.

One conversation can save you a lot of stress—and I’m here to make this easy.

If you need a check-in, a review, or just want to confirm your plan is set up correctly, call or email me anytime.

Let’s make sure your new year starts with clarity, confidence, and coverage you can count on.

(520)-909-3677

Turning 65 Soon? Why January Is Actually a Great Time to Learn About Medicare

If you’re turning 65 soon, or just did, you might be feeling a strange mix of relief and uncertainty. The constant Medicare ads have slowed down, Open Enrollment has ended, and now you might be left wondering: Did I miss something? Should I be doing more?

 January is actually one of the best times to learn about Medicare.

Without the pressure of deadlines and nonstop advertising, you can finally slow down and understand how Medicare fits your life, not someone else’s.

What Actually Happens When You Turn 65

Turning 65 opens the door to Medicare, but it doesn’t force you into a single path. Your choices depend on factors like:

• Whether you’re still working

• If you have employer or spouse coverage

• Your retirement timeline

• Your health needs and budget

There isn’t one “right” plan for everyone, and there’s no benefit to rushing without clarity.

Still Working at 65? You Have Options

One of the most common misconceptions I hear is that Medicare automatically replaces employer insurance at 65. For many people, that’s simply not true.

If you’re still working, Medicare may coordinate with your employer coverage, or in some cases, you may delay certain parts without penalty. Understanding how this works before making changes can save stress, confusion, and unnecessary costs.

If You Just Turned 65 and Feel Unsure, I'm Here to Help. 

Feeling uncertain doesn’t mean you made a mistake. Medicare is complex, and most people aren’t taught how it works until they’re suddenly expected to decide.

January is a great time to:

• Review what you’ve already done

• Ask questions without pressure

• Make sure your coverage actually fits your needs

• Why Local Medicare Help Makes a Difference

Medicare isn’t just about rules, it’s about real-life situations. Working with someone local means:

• You get explanations in plain English

• Your questions are answered in context

• You’re supported beyond enrollment deadlines

As a local Medicare advisor, I help people understand their options calmly and clearly, so they can move forward with confidence, not confusion.

Ready to Talk It Through?

If you’re turning 65 soon or recently did and want to make sure you’re on the right track, January is a great time to start the conversation.

Schedule a no-pressure Medicare conversation or reach out with your questions. You don’t have to figure this out alone. (520) 909-3677

Still Working at 65? Here’s How Medicare Works with Employer Coverage

If you’re turning 65 and still working, you’re not alone. 

One of the most common questions I hear is:
“Do I really need Medicare if I’m still covered through work?”

The answer is: it depends, and understanding how Medicare works alongside employer coverage can save you stress, confusion, and costly mistakes.

First, Take a Breath

Turning 65 doesn’t automatically mean you have to give up your employer insurance or make rushed decisions. Medicare isn’t one-size-fits-all, especially for people who are still working or covered under a spouse’s plan.

How Medicare Coordinates with Employer Coverage

Whether Medicare becomes your primary coverage, or stays secondary depends on:

• The size of your employer

• Whether your coverage is through your job or a spouse’s

• The type of plan you have

Some people enroll in certain parts of Medicare while continuing to work. Others delay without penalty. The key is knowing which parts apply to you and when enrollment actually matters.

Common Misconceptions I See All the Time

• “If I don’t enroll at 65, I’ll be penalized.”

• “Medicare automatically replaces my work insurance.”

• “Everyone should do the same thing.”

None of those statements are universally true.

This is why personalized guidance matters. Your work situation, health needs, and retirement timeline all play a role.

Why January Is a Smart Time to Learn

Without enrollment deadlines looming, January is an ideal time to:

• Review how your employer coverage works with Medicare

• Ask questions calmly

• Plan ahead so nothing catches you off guard later

Learning early gives you options. Waiting until there’s pressure limits them.

Local Medicare Help Makes This Easier

Medicare rules are federal, but real life is local.

As a local Medicare broker serving Southern Arizona, I help people who are still working at 65 understand their options clearly—without pressure, sales tactics, or confusion.

Ready to Talk It Through?

If you’re turning 65 soon and still working—or helping a spouse who is—this is a great time to have a simple, no-pressure conversation.

Reach out to schedule a conversation or ask your questions. You don’t have to figure this out alone. 520-909-3677