SHIIP-SMP is ready to assist Iowans
DES MOINES, Iowa — The Medicare Open Enrollment Period (OEP) for 2027 Medicare Advantage and Part D Prescription Plans opens today, October 15, 2026, and runs through December 7, 2026. Ahead of this year’s enrollment window, more than 87,000 Iowa Medicare beneficiaries received notice that their current Medicare plan is being canceled or discontinued in their county.
A complete list of affected Medicare Advantage, Cost, and Part D plans, along with affected counties, is available on the SHIIP-SMP website.
"It’s more important than ever that Iowa Medicare recipients open and read mail from their Medicare plan to understand changes to their coverage and explore their 2027 options," said Kristin Griffith, Iowa’s SHIIP-SMP Director. "SHIIP-SMP is stepping up to empower Iowans with the knowledge, confidence, and support they need to find coverage that best serves them at the lowest possible cost."
Critical Coverage Changes
Loss of Mayo Clinic Network Guaranteed Issue Rights
A major change for 2027 is that Iowans will no longer be able to purchase Medicare Advantage plans that provide in-network coverage with the Mayo Clinic with the cancellation of both Wellmark and Medica’s Medicare Advantage PPOs.
Guaranteed Issue Rights
Iowans whose Medicare Advantage plans are canceled qualify for a "Guaranteed Issue" right. This allows them to switch to Original Medicare and purchase an available Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policy without medical underwriting—meaning insurers cannot deny coverage or charge higher premiums due to pre-existing health conditions.
"Having the ability to switch from Medicare Advantage to Original Medicare with guaranteed issue is a rare opportunity that isn't typically available to Medicare Advantage enrollees," Griffith noted. "It is vital for Iowans to weigh all their options given these significant changes."
Key Deadlines to Avoid Coverage Gaps
- December 7, 2026: Standard Open Enrollment deadline for comparing and selecting 2027 Medicare Advantage and Part D plans.
- December 31, 2026: Deadline for individuals losing their plan to select new coverage without experiencing a gap in coverage starting January 1, 2027.
- February 28, 2027: Deadline to make changes under a Special Enrollment Period for those whose plans were canceled.
Medicare beneficiaries who fail to enroll in a new plan by December 31, 2026, risk coverage gaps on January 1, 2027, which could lead to substantial unexpected medical and prescription expenses.
Tools and Support for Iowans
With over 700,000 Medicare beneficiaries in Iowa, SHIIP-SMP is offering self-service resources alongside 1-on-1 counseling:
- Online Self-Service Resources: The SHIIP-SMP website offers answers to frequently asked questions and instructional video guides on creating a Medicare.gov account, using the Medicare Plan Finder tool, and comparing Part D or Medicare Advantage plans.
- 24/7 National Helpline: Call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) for around-the-clock help comparing plans.
- Local 1-on-1 Assistance: Visit the "Find a Counselor" page at shiip.iowa.gov or call 1-800-351-4664 to connect with a local SHIIP-SMP site. Counselor availability is limited, and appointments fill up quickly.
About SHIIP-SMP
The Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) and Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) is a free, unbiased service provided by the Iowa Insurance Division. Powered by 430 trained and certified volunteer counselors, SHIIP-SMP assists more than 55,000 Iowans annually—including low-income seniors and individuals under 65 with disabilities—in making informed decisions about their Medicare benefits.