Thousands of Idaho seniors currently insured on Medicare Advantage (MedAdvantage) plans are losing their health insurance beginning January 1, 2026. According to the Idaho Department of Insurance, approximately 51% of Medicare eligible Idahoans were enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan in 2024.

Annual Notice of Change letters were sent by Idaho’s major insurers, Regence Blue Shield of Idaho and Blue Cross of Idaho, as well as other insurance companies to notify their insureds that coverage will end on December 31, 2025.  

What happened? The primary reason for Med-Advantage plan cancelations for 2026 across the country is the sharp reduction in Federal government reimbursements, estimated to be 20% lower than 2023 levels. The addition of rising costs has caused insurers to make significant changes to Medicare Advantage plans, including leaving certain markets, reducing plan benefits, and/or narrowing provider networks.

Act Now During Open Enrollment. American Insurance and the Idaho Department of Insurance (ID-DOI) are urging all Medicare beneficiaries to shop for new Medigap Supplement and Part D Rx Insurance now during Medicare Open Enrollment that runs now through December 7, 2025. 

Medicare beneficiaries should carefully review their options this year to replace their coverage beginning January 1, 2026.

Schedule an appointment. American Insurance is scheduling meetings now with their experienced and certified health agents. Call Rachel Simpson to schedule your appointment (208)413-6242 or Request an Appointment online.  

“Consumers should use this annual Open Enrollment Period to compare plans, confirm that their doctors and prescriptions are covered, and seek free, objective help from the Department of Insurance, SHIBA, or a local trusted agent,” said DOI Director Dean Cameron. “Taking action early ensures uninterrupted coverage and continued access to quality care. Most importantly, consumers should know they are not alone – our team is ready to help every step of the way.”

Options for Impacted Consumers. Beneficiaries whose plans are ending will qualify for a Special Enrollment Period, allowing them to:

• Switch to another Medicare Advantage plan, or
• Return to Original Medicare (with the option to add a standalone Part D prescription drug plan and, in most cases, a Medigap policy without medical underwriting).

“While some carriers are exiting the market, Idaho still offers a competitive selection of plans and strong consumer protections,” Cameron said. “We strongly encourage Medicare beneficiaries to review their options and take advantage of free help from SHIBA or a licensed agent.” 

 Source: Idaho Department of Insurance, News Release, September 19, 2025 “Idaho Department of Insurance Urges Medicare Beneficiaries to Review Plans During Open Enrollment.”