OEP allows individuals who are currently enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan to make one-time change to their coverage.
As a trusted partner of The American Legion, Wellcare is committed to helping you stay informed about your Medicare coverage options. One important time of year to understand is the Medicare Open Enrollment Period (OEP), which runs annually from Jan. 1 through March 31.
What is OEP?
The Open Enrollment Period allows individuals who are currently enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan to make a one-time change to their coverage.
During OEP, eligible members may:
- Switch from one Medicare Advantage plan to another Medicare Advantage plan, or
- Disenroll from their Medicare Advantage plan and return to Original Medicare (with the option to add a Part D prescription drug plan)
Who can use OEP?
OEP is only available to beneficiaries who are already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan as of Jan. 1. It does not apply to individuals enrolled in Original Medicare only.
What OEP is not
OEP is different from the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) in the fall.
During OEP:
- People cannot switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan.
- People cannot make multiple changes — only one enrollment change is allowed.
Why this matters
OEP provides an opportunity to review current coverage and determine if it continues to meet your members healthcare needs, such as provider access, prescription coverage, or out-of-pocket costs.
Thank you for your continued service and commitment to your community. Wellcare is proud to support the American Legion and its members through education and outreach.
This communication is for educational purposes only and does not constitute plan-specific advice or a sales presentation.
- Dispatch