What Is an Annual Notice of Change and Why Does It Matter?
Quick Answer: A Medicare Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) is a document your Medicare plan sends each fall explaining changes to your plan's coverage, costs and other details for the upcoming year. Medicare says these notices are generally sent in September.
What Is an ANOC?
ANOC stands for Annual Notice of Change.
If you're enrolled in a Medicare Advantage or Medicare prescription drug plan, your plan sends an ANOC each fall. It explains changes that will take effect in January.
What Information Is in an Annual Notice of Change?
Your ANOC may explain changes to:
Premiums
Deductibles
Copayments
Benefits
Coverage
Provider networks
Pharmacy networks
Other plan costs and rules
When Should I Receive My ANOC?
Medicare says Annual Notices of Change are generally sent in September.
If you haven't received yours, Medicare recommends contacting your plan.
Does Receiving an ANOC Mean I Need to Change Plans?
No.
Receiving an ANOC doesn't automatically mean you should switch plans.
Instead, use it to understand what your current coverage will look like next year.
If the changes still work for you, you may decide to keep your plan.
What Should I Do With My ANOC?
Start by comparing the changes with your actual healthcare needs.
Ask:
Are my doctors still covered?
Are my prescriptions still covered?
Are my costs changing?
Are my preferred pharmacies still included?
Are the benefits I use changing?
Does this plan still make sense for me next year?
Have Questions About Your ANOC?
If you're in St. Charles County or the surrounding St. Louis area, we can help you understand your Medicare options during Annual Enrollment.
Resources:
https://www.ncoa.org/article/what-is-a-medicare-annual-notice-of-change-anoc/
