Summary
Open enrollment for Medicare starts on October 15 and runs until December 7. Despite the ongoing government shutdown, most Medicare services will continue, although there might be some delays in updates and customer service.
Key Facts
- Medicare open enrollment begins on October 15 and ends on December 7.
- Nearly 70 million Americans use Medicare, a government health insurance program.
- The federal government shutdown began on October 1 and has not yet ended.
- The shutdown might delay updates on the Medicare.gov website and processing applications.
- Essential Medicare services should continue, even during the shutdown.
- Seniors are encouraged to consult with Medicare insurance agents to review their options.
- Open enrollment allows switching between Medicare plans, including adding Medicare Part D for prescriptions.
- Medicare Advantage, a private plan option, will have its enrollment period from January 1 to March 31.
