Annual Notice Of Change (ANOC)
Every year, Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D prescription drug plans send members an Annual Notice of Change (ANOC). This important document outlines any changes to your current plan that will take effect on January 1 of the upcoming year.
Taking a few minutes to review your ANOC can help you understand whether your current plan continues to meet your healthcare and prescription needs. Community Insurance Partners is here to help you make sense of the information and answer your questions.
What Is an Annual Notice of Change?
An Annual Notice of Change is a document sent each fall by your Medicare Advantage or Medicare Part D prescription drug plan.
The ANOC explains any changes your plan is making for the coming year. These changes may include costs, benefits, provider networks, prescription drug coverage, or other plan details.
Reviewing this document before the Annual Enrollment Period allows you to understand what, if anything, is changing before your new benefits begin.
Why It Matters
Even if you’re satisfied with your current coverage, your plan may change from one year to the next.
Understanding these changes can help you determine whether your current plan still meets your healthcare needs and budget.
Taking the time to review your ANOC before making any decisions can help you make informed choices during the Annual Enrollment Period.
What Should You Do Next?
Not every change means you need a different plan. In many cases, your current coverage may still be a good fit.
If you receive your ANOC and aren’t sure what the changes mean, Community Insurance Partners can help you review your Annual Notice of Change, answer your questions, and discuss your options so you can make an informed decision.
Whether your plan has changed significantly or you simply want a second opinion, we’re here to provide educational guidance based on your individual situation.
What to Look for in Your ANOC
As you review your Annual Notice of Change, pay close attention to items such as:
- Monthly premium changes
- Deductibles and out-of-pocket costs
- Copayments and coinsurance
- Prescription drug coverage
- Provider and pharmacy network changes
- Covered services and benefits
- Any benefits that have been added, changed, or removed
Not every plan changes in the same way. Some plans may only adjust costs, while others may change provider networks, prescription drug coverage, or additional benefits. Reviewing each section of your Annual Notice of Change can help you understand how your coverage may be affected in the coming year.
Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) Workshops
Community Insurance Partners is hosting free educational workshops to review the Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) for Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna HealthSpring, Devoted Health, Humana, and UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plans. During each session, we’ll explain the changes for a specific plan, answer general questions, and help you better understand how those changes may affect your Medicare coverage before the Annual Enrollment Period begins. Find your plan below and register for the workshop that matches your coverage.
Find your plan?
Register for the workshop that matches your Medicare plan to learn about the changes in your Annual Notice of Change.
Don’t see your plan?
Not every Medicare plan is included in these workshops. If your plan isn’t listed or you prefer one-on-one guidance, schedule a Medicare Review with a licensed agent.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will I receive my Annual Notice of Change?
Most Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D plans mail the Annual Notice of Change in late September. Reviewing it as soon as you receive it gives you time to understand any changes before the Annual Enrollment Period begins.
Does receiving an Annual Notice of Change mean I have to change plans?
No. Receiving an Annual Notice of Change does not mean you are required to change your Medicare plan. Many people choose to keep their current coverage. However, reviewing the document each year can help you determine whether your current plan continues to meet your healthcare needs and budget.
What if my doctor is no longer in my plan's network?
If your preferred doctor or healthcare provider is no longer participating in your plan’s network, you may want to review your options during the Annual Enrollment Period. A licensed insurance agent can help you understand what choices may be available based on your individual situation.
Why did my prescription drug costs increase?
Your Annual Notice of Change will explain any updates to your prescription drug coverage, including changes to copayments, deductibles, or the plan’s drug formulary. If these changes could affect your healthcare expenses, it may be worthwhile to review your Medicare coverage during the Annual Enrollment Period.
What happens if I do nothing during the Annual Enrollment Period?
If you take no action during the Annual Enrollment Period, you will generally remain enrolled in your current plan, provided it continues to be offered. Any changes described in your Annual Notice of Change will typically become effective on January 1. Reviewing your coverage each year can help ensure your plan continues to meet your needs.
Should I review my Medicare coverage every year?
Yes. Your healthcare needs, prescription medications, provider networks, and plan benefits may change from year to year. Reviewing your Medicare coverage annually can help you better understand your options and make informed decisions during the Annual Enrollment Period.
Can Community Insurance Partners help me review my Annual Notice of Change?
Understanding your Annual Notice of Change doesn’t have to be overwhelming. We are here to help you review your current coverage, answer your questions, and explain your options in a clear, educational setting.
If you’d like help understanding your Annual Notice of Change, schedule a one-on-one ANOC review with a licensed insurance agent. We’ll review your current coverage, answer your questions, and explain any changes outlined in your notice.