What patients, families, and community partners should know about Medicare Annual Election Period, October 15–December 7

Medicare Annual Election Period (AEP) is almost here. From October 15 through December 7, people with Medicare can review their health and prescription drug coverage and make changes for the upcoming year. Even if your current plan has worked well, it is worth taking another look—plan costs, benefits, and provider networks can change from year to year.
Start by Checking Your Plan’s Network
Choosing a plan that includes your healthcare providers may help you avoid unexpected out-of-pocket costs. CHAS Health patients—and the community partners who support them—can use the list below as a starting point when comparing options.
Medicare Advantage Plans Accepted at CHAS Health
| Plan | Medical | Dental | |
| Aetna | ✓ | ||
| Blue Cross of Idaho | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Community Health Plan of Washington | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Humana | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Molina Healthcare | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Range Health | ✓ | ||
| UnitedHealthcare | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Wellcare | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Wellpoint | ✓ | ||
| Original Medicare is also accepted at CHAS Health | |||
| Important network information CHAS Health is not in network with Medicare Advantage plans from HealthSpring, Kaiser, or SCAN Health. | |||
Could You Qualify for Extra Savings?
AEP is also a good time to check whether you qualify for programs that can help lower Medicare premiums or prescription drug costs. Two programs to ask about are:
- Medicare Savings Program
- Extra Help
You Don’t Have to Compare Plans Alone
Medicare choices can feel complicated, but help is available. A licensed Medicare broker or a Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA) volunteer can walk through your options and help you compare plans based on your needs. Community partners can also share these resources with anyone who may benefit from one-on-one support.
Meet with a Medicare Broker
Licensed brokers are available at local CHAS Health clinics. Visit chas.org/medicare for dates and times.
Talk with a SHIBA Volunteer
SHIBA offers free, unbiased Medicare information and support.
Washington: 1.800.562.6900
Idaho: 1.800.247.4422