The Annual Election Period (AEP) has officially ended. If you are like many of our clients, you might be breathing a sigh of relief that the paperwork is finally done.

But before you ring in the New Year, there are a few critical steps you need to take to ensure your coverage is ready to go on January 1st.

At Choice City Health, we believe our job doesn't end at enrollment. We aren’t just here to help you sign up; we are here to help you use your plan effectively. Whether you stuck with your current plan or switched to a new one, here is your essential 2026 kickoff checklist.

1. Watch Your Mailbox (and Destroy the Old Cards)

Your new ID cards for 2026 should be arriving soon. It is critical that you put the new cards in your wallet and shred the old ones effective January 1st.

• Why it matters: Even if you stayed with the same carrier, your Group ID or Member ID might have changed. Using an old card at the pharmacy in January can cause billing delays or rejection.

2. Know Before You Go: Does Medicare Pay for Urgent Care Visits?

This is one of the most common questions we get: "Does Medicare pay for urgent care visits?"

The short answer is yes, but it depends on your specific plan structure.

• Original Medicare: Generally covers urgent care centers.
• Medicare Advantage: Most plans cover urgent care, often with a significantly lower copay than the Emergency Room.
• The Action Item: Check your plan’s "Evidence of Coverage" now. Knowing the difference between a $50 Urgent Care copay and a $500 ER copay can save you hundreds of dollars if you get sick in January.

3. Double-Check Your Network

Whether you are looking for low cost health insurance in Fort Collins or a well-rounded Medicare Advantage plan, the "network" is everything.

• Doctors: Confirm your primary care doctor is still in-network for 2026.
• Pharmacies: Check that your preferred pharmacy is still listed as a "preferred" vendor. Pharmacies can drop in and out of networks from year to year, which can affect your copays.

4. Do You Have "Reviewer's Remorse"? (The Safety Net)

Did you feel rushed during AEP? If you start using your plan in January and realize it isn't the right fit—don't panic.

• Medicare Open Enrollment Period (OEP): From January 1 to March 31, if you are currently on a Medicare Advantage plan, you have a one-time opportunity to switch plans or return to Original Medicare.
• We can help: If you need to review your options one last time, we can help you fix it during this window.

5. Don't Forget the "Extras"

Did you miss our guide last month on Hospital Indemnity Insurance? If you have a Medicare Advantage plan with high daily copays for hospital stays, these small, budget-friendly plans can fill that gap.

Read More: Hospital, Cancer, and Critical Illness Plans

Need Medicare Help in Fort Collins?

We are proud to be your local resource. If you have questions about your new plan, urgent care coverage, or just want to review your benefits before January, give us a call.

We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently, we represent 7 organizations that offer 58 products in your area.

Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program to get information on all of your options. Not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program.