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Annual Medicare Open Enrollment runs from October 15 through December 7, giving Medicare beneficiaries the opportunity to review their health and prescription drug coverage for the coming year. Whether you’re reviewing your current plan or exploring other coverage options, preparing early can help you make the most of the Open Enrollment period.

The Lexington Human Services Department is pleased to partner with Minuteman Senior Services’ SHINE (Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Everyone) Program to offer free, confidential, and unbiased Medicare counseling. SHINE counselors are available to help beneficiaries understand their Medicare options and make informed decisions based on their individual healthcare needs.

Watch for Your Annual Notice of Change

In September, anyone enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan or Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plan will receive an Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) in the mail. This important document outlines any changes to your plan’s premiums, deductibles, copayments, prescription drug coverage, provider networks, and benefits that will take effect on January 1, 2027.

Take a few minutes to review your ANOC before meeting with a SHINE counselor. Even if you’re satisfied with your current coverage, reviewing these changes each year can help you determine whether your plan continues to meet your healthcare and prescription needs.

How SHINE Can Help

SHINE appointments begin September 28 and are available by appointment only. During your appointment, a certified SHINE counselor can help you:

• Compare Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plans
• Review premiums, deductibles, and maximum out-of-pocket costs
• Understand changes to your current coverage and benefits
• Enroll in a new plan or change plans, if appropriate
• Screen for programs that may help lower Medicare costs, including the Medicare Savings Program

Remember, not everyone needs to change plans each year. Many beneficiaries find that their current coverage continues to meet their needs, while others discover that another plan may better fit their healthcare needs or budget. SHINE counselors provide objective, unbiased information so you can make the decision that’s right for you.

Preparing for Your SHINE Appointment

One of the most important ways to prepare for Medicare Open Enrollment is to make sure you can access your secure Medicare.gov account before your SHINE appointment.

Having access to your account allows your SHINE counselor to compare Medicare plans more efficiently and provide the most comprehensive review of your coverage options.

If you do not have a Medicare.gov account or are unable to access it, your appointment will still be honored; however, your SHINE counselor’s ability to compare plans and complete certain enrollment activities may be limited.

SHINE counselors are unable to create Medicare.gov accounts or troubleshoot login issues during appointments, as appointment time is reserved for Medicare counseling.

If possible, enter or update your current prescription medications in your secure Medicare.gov account before your appointment.

Please bring:

• Your Medicare card (Parts A & B)
• Your current Medicare Advantage, Medigap, and/or Part D insurance cards
• A current list of your prescription medications, including dosages

Free Programs to Help You Prepare

Before your SHINE appointment, take advantage of these free educational and technology support opportunities to help you access your secure Medicare.gov account and prepare for Medicare Open Enrollment.

Need a Medicare Login?

Monday, September 14 | 10–11:00 AM

Learn how to create and access your secure Medicare.gov account, enter your prescription medications, and navigate the website before Open Enrollment begins.

Advance registration is requested by calling 781-698-4840 or visiting LexRecMA.gov.

Paul’s Tech Hours – Drop in at Lexington Community Center

Every Tuesday | 1:30–3:00 PM

Need additional technology assistance? Whether you need help getting started with an email account, accessing your secure Medicare.gov account, or navigating the website, Paul may be able to help you prepare for your SHINE appointment.

Important Medicare Dates

September – Watch for your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC).

September 14 – Need a Medicare Login?

Presentation at Lexington Community Center.

October 15–December 7 – Medicare

Annual Open Enrollment

You don’t have to navigate Medicare alone. Whether you’re reviewing your current coverage or exploring new options, SHINE counselors are here to provide free, confidential, and unbiased guidance every step of the way.

The SHINE Program is a free, confidential, and unbiased service of Minuteman Senior Services, funded in part by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Aging & Independence.