The Medicare Open Enrollment Period—running from October 15 to December 7, 2025—is your opportunity to review your coverage, compare plans, and make changes for the upcoming year. However, it’s also a time when many beneficiaries make avoidable mistakes that can lead to higher costs or gaps in coverage.

To help you make confident, informed choices, the team at Torgersen Consulting Benefits Group has outlined five of the most common Medicare Open Enrollment pitfalls—and how you can avoid them.

1. Missing the Medicare Open Enrollment Deadline

The most common and costly mistake is simply missing the deadline. If you don’t make changes by December 7, you’ll likely have to wait until the next Open Enrollment Period to adjust your coverage (unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period).

How to avoid it:

• Mark your calendar early and set reminders.
  
• Review your plan options as soon as you receive your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC), usually mailed in September.
  
• Don’t wait until the last week of enrollment—plans can change significantly year to year.
  

2. Assuming Your Current Plan Is Still the Best Option

Even if you were satisfied with your plan this year, don’t assume it will remain the same in 2026. Premiums, copays, provider networks, and covered medications can all change.

How to avoid it:

• Compare your current coverage with other Medicare Advantage and Part D plans available in your area.
  
• Review any changes in your plan’s costs, covered prescriptions, or provider network for 2025.
  
• Use your plan’s updated materials to verify whether your preferred doctors and pharmacies will still be included next year.
  

A quick annual review can help you find a plan that fits your evolving health needs and budget.

3. Overlooking Prescription Drug Coverage Changes

Prescription drug coverage under Medicare Part D can change each year—even if you stay with the same plan. Formularies (lists of covered medications), tiers, and pharmacy networks may shift, which can affect your out-of-pocket costs.

How to avoid it:

• Make a list of your current medications and check whether they’re still covered under your plan’s 2025 formulary.
  
• Compare plan drug coverage, costs, and preferred pharmacy networks.
  
• Consider whether a Medicare Advantage plan with Part D coverage might offer more value.
  

Even small changes in formulary tiers can add up to significant cost differences over the course of a year.

4. Not Reviewing Provider Networks for Medicare Advantage Plans

If you’re enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, your coverage may depend on the plan’s network of doctors, hospitals, and specialists. Provider networks can change annually, and using out-of-network care could cost you more—or may not be covered at all.

How to avoid it:

• Verify that your preferred doctors, specialists, and hospitals remain in-network for 2025.
  
• If your providers are no longer covered, explore other Medicare Advantage plans that include them.
  
• For those who prefer unrestricted provider choice, consider whether Original Medicare with a Medigap plan might be a better fit.
  

5. Skipping Professional Guidance

Medicare can be complex, and trying to compare all your options alone can be overwhelming. Many people unintentionally overlook better coverage simply because they don’t have access to clear, unbiased information.

How to avoid it:

• Work with a licensed Medicare insurance professional who can help you compare plans, costs, and coverage details.
  
• Ask questions about your current needs and potential changes to your health or prescription medications.
  
• Get personalized guidance before making a decision—you don’t have to navigate Medicare alone.
  

Make the Most of Medicare Open Enrollment 2025

Avoiding these common pitfalls can help you find the coverage that truly fits your needs in 2025. Take the time to review your plan details, compare new options, and ask for expert help when you need it.

Torgersen Consulting Benefits Group is here to support you every step of the way. Our experienced, licensed agents can walk you through your Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement, and Part D options, ensuring you understand your choices before the December 7 deadline.

Contact us today to schedule your personalized Medicare review and make confident decisions for 2025 and beyond.