Medicare Help in Beckley, West Virginia: What to Know During Annual Enrollment

The Annual Enrollment Period is here, and if you’re looking for Medicare help in Beckley, West Virginia, Songer Insurance is here to make it simple. Whether you’re turning 65, reviewing a Medicare Advantage plan, or updating your prescription drug coverage, this is the time to make changes for 2026.

Understanding the Annual Enrollment Period

The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) runs from October 15 through December 7 each year. During this time, anyone with Medicare can:

• Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan (or vice versa)
• Change or update their Part D prescription drug coverage
• Review plan costs, networks, and coverage for the upcoming year

All changes take effect on January 1, 2026, so reviewing your coverage before the deadline ensures you have the right protection heading into the new year.

Turning 65 Soon?

If you’re about to turn 65, you have a seven-month window around your birthday to enroll in Medicare — the three months before, the month of, and the three months after your 65th birthday. Songer Insurance helps you:

• Enroll in Medicare Parts A and B
• Compare Medicare Supplement (Medigap) and Medicare Advantage plans
• Find the best Part D drug plan for your medications

Why Review Your Drug Plan Every Year

Even if your current plan worked well this year, formularies, premiums, and pharmacy networks can change. A plan that fit your needs this year may not be the best option for 2026. The 2026 Medicare Part D out-of-pocket cap is $2,100, which may lower expenses for people with high drug costs.

• Check that your prescriptions are still covered
• Compare premiums and deductibles for next year
• Make sure your preferred pharmacy remains in-network

Understanding Medicare Advantage (Part C)

Medicare Advantage plans are managed care plans offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. These plans combine hospital, medical, and often drug coverage into one policy — but it’s important to understand how they work before enrolling.

• They operate through provider networks — HMO or PPO — which may limit your access to certain doctors or hospitals.
• Many services require prior authorization, meaning the insurance company must approve treatments before you receive them.
• Some services and procedures can be denied or delayed if the plan does not consider them medically necessary under their guidelines.
• Plans can change benefits, premiums, and networks each year, and in some cases, plans may be discontinued or leave your county.

While these plans can offer extra benefits such as dental, vision, or gym memberships, they also require you to review coverage carefully every AEP to ensure your doctors and medications remain covered for the following year.

Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Plans

Medicare Supplement plans work differently. They are not managed care and do not use networks. As long as a provider accepts Medicare, they will accept your Medigap plan. You can receive care anywhere in the United States, and prior authorizations are rarely required.

• Predictable, standardized coverage options (Plans A–N)
• Freedom to see any doctor who accepts Medicare
• Low or no out-of-pocket costs at the time of service
• Separate Part D drug plan required for prescriptions

Although Medigap plans typically have higher monthly premiums, many people appreciate the freedom, stability, and simplicity they provide — especially those who travel or have ongoing medical needs.

Need Help During AEP?

At Songer Insurance, we provide free Medicare help in Beckley, West Virginia and across southern West Virginia. Our licensed advisors explain the pros and cons of each type of plan, review your medications, and help you compare benefits from all major carriers — with no pressure or obligation.

Helpful Resources

• Medicare.gov – Official Medicare information
• Healthcare.gov – Marketplace and eligibility information
• CMS.gov – Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services

For clear answers and local guidance, contact Songer Insurance at 304-252-2158 or visit songerinsurance.com to schedule your free Medicare review today. We’ll help you compare options and make confident decisions this enrollment season.