Health Insurance Plans Change Every Year

Every year as we approach Open Enrollment—October 15 to December 7 for Medicare, and November 1 to January 15 for individual and family health insurance—you’ll start to see reports about carriers withdrawing plans, hospitals changing contracts, or other network announcements.

The truth is, these changes are a normal part of the health insurance process. Contracts between carriers and providers are continually reviewed. Sometimes this results in contracts ending, and other times new contracts are signed. Likewise, carriers adjust their plan offerings each year, adding new options and discontinuing others.

Why does this happen?

• Contract negotiations: Carriers and providers regularly renegotiate. If they don’t reach an agreement, a hospital or physician group may leave the network.
• Plan updates: Insurance companies review their plans each year to meet regulations, control costs, and respond to market needs.
• Cost management: Networks sometimes shift to keep premiums more stable.

What this means for you

• It’s normal. Changes happen every year—so don’t be alarmed when you hear the headlines.
• It might affect your care. If your doctor or hospital is no longer in-network, you could face higher costs or need to consider other plan options.
• It could create opportunities. Sometimes new plans or expanded networks may be a better fit for your needs.

What you should do

1. Check your doctors and hospitals. Confirm whether they’ll remain in-network for next year.
2. Review your plan during Open Enrollment. This is your chance to switch if needed.
3. Ask about transition benefits. If you’re in active treatment, carriers may offer continuity-of-care options.
4. Lean on a trusted advisor. If you have questions about rumored changes or want help navigating the updates, reach out to your broker.

Bottom line

Don’t let news about contract disputes or plan changes cause worry. These shifts are routine in the insurance world. What matters most is making sure your coverage continues to meet your needs.

If you have a trusted broker advisor, lean on them to guide you through changes. If you don’t, I’d be happy to help.