CLEVELAND, Ohio — Medicare open enrollment starts Wednesday, and for the second year in a row, big Medicare insurance companies are getting rid of some plans, and increasing out-of-pocket costs such as deductibles, health experts said.

During open enrollment period, which runs through Dec. 7, Medicare recipients can look at the coming changes to Medicare rules and, if they choose, switch health insurance plans to one that better fits their needs.

Also on the horizon are changes to Medicare enacted by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. If Congress takes no additional action, automatic spending cuts will reduce Medicare funding by approximately $500 billion between 2026 and 2034, according to Medicare proponents.

Key Medicare changes in 2026 include:

During open enrollment, it’s important t

See Full Page