What Is a Medicare Annual Notice of Change?
Short answer
The Annual Notice of Change explains how a Medicare Advantage or Part D plan will change for the coming plan year.
Coverage And Action
Review changes in premiums, cost sharing, benefits, drug coverage and plan rules before deciding whether to remain enrolled for the next year.
Not Automatic
The ANOC should not be treated as proof that every provider or drug remains unchanged; verify current directories and formularies separately.
Practical Example
A plan that worked well this year may increase specialist copays or alter drug coverage next year, making the ANOC an important annual review document.
Questions to verify
- What changes next January?
- Have my drugs or providers also changed?
- Should I compare alternatives during fall enrollment?