How to compare Medicare drug plans for 2027

If your usual adviser can no longer review drug plans with you, you still have a place to get help. The State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) helps people understand Medicare choices. The official handbook describes SHIP counseling as free and personalized, and says SHIPs are not connected to an insurance company or health plan.

Page 13 of Medicare & You 2027 gives the next coverage year’s comparison and enrollment dates:

• October 1, 2026: start comparing your current Medicare health or drug coverage with options for 2027.
• October 15–December 7, 2026: annual Open Enrollment for changes to Medicare health or drug coverage for 2027.

Until the new year’s information is available, use the time to prepare your medication list and arrange counseling. On Medicare Plan Finder, confirm the coverage year before comparing. A result for 2026 is not a quote for 2027. Other enrollment opportunities may depend on individual circumstances; ask the counselor which period applies to you.

• The exact medication name, strength, dose and refill quantity for each prescription.
• The pharmacies you use or can realistically access, including any mail-order arrangement.
• Your current plan information and any notices about changes for next year.
• Questions about medicines received at a clinic or hospital, so the team can clarify how each is covered.

Ask your pharmacist or treating team to help clarify an uncertain medication name or quantity. Do not change a prescription to fit a comparison tool. If you are managing cancer treatment or several heart medicines, tell the counselor that continuity of access matters and bring the relevant coverage questions.

Medicare explains that total drug-coverage costs depend on the plan. A lower premium does not by itself establish the lowest total cost for your medications. Check the yearly estimate together with deductibles, pharmacy costs and coverage requirements.

Each drug plan has its own list of covered drugs, called a formulary. Ask which of your drugs are covered, what restrictions apply and what to do if an essential medicine is missing from the result. Have the plan or counselor explain unresolved points before you choose.

A medication’s quoted price alone does not tell you what your own insurance requires you to pay. Keep the pharmacy’s price, the plan’s estimated cost sharing and what you actually pay distinct when asking for help. An estimate also cannot guarantee every future claim.

Extra Help is a Medicare program for people with limited income and resources that helps pay Part D premiums, deductibles, coinsurance and other costs. Ask SHIP or Social Security how to check eligibility and apply. A diagnosis or a high medication price does not establish eligibility.

Also ask the pharmacist or treating team about assistance programs relevant to the specific medicine. Medicare notes that some pharmaceutical companies offer assistance, but requirements and availability differ. If cost threatens a refill, tell the prescriber promptly so the care team can discuss safe next steps.

If a practical problem is getting in the way of medical care, explain what you cannot do and what help you have already tried. Community Health Integration (CHI) may help address unmet social needs that significantly limit a provider’s ability to diagnose or treat your medical problem. A benefits question by itself does not establish eligibility. The provider must assess the need, and a qualifying visit and your consent are required.

Navigate Care offers coordination by phone or video. A free introductory call lets us understand your situation and discuss whether our services fit. Provider visits and ongoing navigation are separate and may have costs. With Original Medicare, CHI has the Part B deductible and then 20% coinsurance; other coverage may reduce your share. We explain expected costs before you decide. Outside assistance programs have their own requirements and availability.