What Is the Annual Notice of Change?
What Is the Annual Notice of Change?

What Is the Annual Notice of Change?

The Medicare Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) is a document that Medicare beneficiaries receive every year. It is typically sent by their Medicare Advantage (Part C) or Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (Part D) provider. The purpose of the ANOC is to inform Medicare beneficiaries of any changes to their current Medicare plan for the upcoming year.

Here are some key points about the Medicare Annual Notice of Change:

  1. Timing: Beneficiaries usually receive the ANOC in the fall, typically in late September. This timing allows them to review any changes to their plan before the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), which runs from October 15th to December 7th each year. During the AEP, beneficiaries can make changes to their Medicare coverage for the following year.
  2. Content: The ANOC contains important information about any changes to the plan’s costs, coverage, or network of healthcare providers. This can include changes to premiums, deductibles, copayments, and the list of covered drugs (for Part D plans). It also provides information about any new benefits or services that may be added to the plan.
  3. Comparison: The ANOC often includes a section that allows beneficiaries to compare the current year’s plan with the upcoming year’s plan. This helps beneficiaries understand how changes will affect their coverage and costs.
  4. Review and Decision: It’s crucial for Medicare beneficiaries to carefully review their ANOC to ensure they are aware of any changes that may impact their healthcare coverage and costs. If they are satisfied with their current plan and it’s still being offered, they don’t need to take any action, and their coverage will automatically continue into the next year. However, if they want to make changes, they can do so during the AEP.
  5. What To Do Next: As mentioned above, if you are happy with your current plan and it is still being offered, you do NOT have to reenroll or reapply. It will renew automatically. If you do have questions or concerns, contact me. Have your ANOC handy when you call and we can discuss the impact of any modifications and whether or not you need to make any changes.

It’s essential for Medicare beneficiaries to pay attention to their Annual Notice of Change and take the time to review it thoroughly. This helps you make informed decisions about your Medicare coverage for the upcoming year and ensure that your healthcare needs are adequately met. If you decide to switch plans, you may do so during the Annual Enrollment Period.

Here’s how you should expect to receive it and some steps to take if you haven’t received your Annual Notice of Change:

  1. Mail: Most Medicare beneficiaries receive their Annual Notice of Change by mail. It is usually sent to the address on file with Medicare. The ANOC is typically mailed out in late September, so keep an eye on your mailbox during that time.
  2. Email: Some Medicare plans offer the option to receive the ANOC electronically, either through email or by logging into your online account on the plan’s website. If you’ve opted for electronic communications with your plan, check your email or online account for the ANOC.
  3. Online Access: You can also access the ANOC online through the Medicare Plan Finder tool on the official Medicare website. This allows you to view and download your ANOC if it’s available online. You will need to log in to your Medicare account to access this information.

If you haven’t received your Annual Notice of Change by late September, early October at the latest, or if you’re unsure about its status, you should take the following steps:

  1. Contact Your Plan Provider: Reach out to your Medicare Advantage or Part D plan provider. You can find their contact information on your plan membership card or on their website. Ask them about the status of your ANOC and confirm the address they have on file for you.
  2. Update Your Address: If your address has changed recently, make sure to update it with Medicare and your plan provider. This can help ensure that important documents like the ANOC reach you in a timely manner.
  3. Check Your Online Account: If your plan offers online access to the ANOC, log in to your online account on the plan’s website and check for any available documents or notifications there.