10 Medicare Changes Coming in 2026

7. Plan Withdrawals & Narrower Networks in Medicare Advantage

Several major insurers plan to scale back or withdraw from Medicare Advantage in certain counties in 2026.

This may reduce choices or force you into narrower networks.

💡 What you can do:

• Verify whether your provider network is still in your 2026 plan.
• Use October’s Open Enrollment Period to switch plans if your network is cut.

8. Changes to Dual-Eligible Special Needs Plans (D-SNPs)

The 2026 final rule includes changes to Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans (D-SNPs) which serve Medicare + Medicaid beneficiaries.

Expect new coordination rules between Medicare and Medicaid benefits, possibly affecting cost-sharing and coverage alignment.

💡 What you can do:

• If you’re dual-eligible, check with your state Medicaid office and your D-SNP plan about new coordination rules.
• Confirm that benefits you rely on (dental, vision, long-term services) remain covered under new structure.