Use a CGM? Check 5 things during Medicare Open Enrollment
If you rely on a CGM or insulin pump: A few minutes of checking now can help prevent surprises in January.
Medicare Open Enrollment happens every fall. It is your opportunity to review your current coverage and decide whether you want to make changes for the coming year.
Medicare Open Enrollment
October 15 - December 7, 2026
Changes generally take effect January 1, 2027
- 1 -What is changing with your current plan? |
Even if you are happy with your current coverage, take a few minutes to review what may be changing next year. Look for your plan's Annual Notice of Change and review changes to costs, benefits, prescription coverage and provider networks. |
- 2 -Are your doctors still covered? |
If you are considering a Medicare Advantage plan, check whether the doctors and health care providers you use are still included in the plan's network. This is especially important if you see specialists regularly, including an endocrinologist or diabetes care team. |
- 3 -Are your prescriptions covered? |
Do not compare plans based on the monthly premium alone. Check whether your medications are covered, which pharmacies you can use and what your expected costs may be. |
- 4 -Can you continue to get your CGM supplies? |
Do not forget about your diabetes supplies Your pharmacy is not the only thing to check. If you use a continuous glucose monitor, insulin pump or other diabetes equipment, find out how the plan covers those supplies and whether you can continue using your current supplier. Medicare generally covers qualifying continuous glucose monitors and related supplies through Medicare Part B as durable medical equipment. If you use a CGM, add these questions to your checklist • Is my CGM covered? • Can I continue using my current supplier? • Will I need prior authorization? • Could my out-of-pocket cost change? • If I change plans, when should I update my supplier? |
- 5 -Inform your medical suppliers |
A coverage change does not always mean switching insurance companies. A different plan with the same company may have different supplier networks, costs or requirements. If you choose different coverage for January, give your medical suppliers your updated insurance information. Updating it early can help prevent avoidable delays with your next order. You do not have to figure everything out at once. Start with the care you already use: • Your doctors • Your prescriptions • Your CGM or insulin pump • Your medical supply companies Then compare how each plan handles those things. |
What should I do if my coverage changes?
If your coverage changes for January (even if you stay with the same insurance company), make sure the companies that provide your regular medical supplies have your updated insurance information.
For Wellstart patients, letting us know about any coverage change helps us keep your information current and may help prevent delays with your next supply order.
Medicare Open Enrollment: Where to Start
You do not have to compare every detail at once.
Make a list of the health care you already depend on:
• Your CGM and diabetes supplies
• Your doctors and specialists
• Your prescriptions
• Your medical supply companies
Then check how the plans you are considering handle each item.
When you receive your new insurance card, then contact Wellstart
Let us know if your coverage changes (including a new plan with your current insurance company) so we can update your account before your next supply order.
Contact Wellstart about an insurance change:
Call us 800-978-7599
Or update your insurance online at portal.wellstart.com (Scroll down to see more details)
Need help comparing Medicare coverage?
Medicare can help you review available coverage and understand your options. You can also contact your insurance plan directly with questions about its network, costs, and coverage requirements.
Wellstart does not provide Medicare plan selection or insurance advice. Coverage, network participation, authorization requirements and patient costs can vary by plan and individual circumstances. Review your plan documents or contact Medicare or your insurance plan for information about your specific coverage.
More details: How to update your insurance details online
Visit us online at portal.wellstart.com
(1) Log in
Provide a few details to login to your Wellstart account online
(2) Open the menu, select "My Account"
Click your name in the teal box to open the menu
(3) Update insurance
You can upload a photo or type the details
