2026 Medicare Update: Limited Medicare Advantage Options in Central Oregon — What You Need to Know
If you’re on Medicare in Central Oregon, big changes are coming for 2026. Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan options are extremely limited for the 2026 plan year. For many seniors in Bend, Redmond, La Pine, Sunriver, and across Deschutes County, this may be the right time to consider switching from a Medicare Advantage plan to a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan paired with Original Medicare.
At Bancorp Insurance, we’re already helping our Central Oregon clients prepare for these changes so they can feel confident about their coverage going into 2026.
Why Central Oregon Seniors Are Considering Medicare Supplement Plans
Here are some of the top reasons many Medicare beneficiaries are rethinking their coverage:
- Freedom to choose providers – See any doctor or hospital nationwide that accepts Medicare. No restrictive provider networks.
- Predictable costs – Many Medigap plans cover deductibles, coinsurance, and copays.
- No referrals needed – Go directly to specialists without jumping through hoops.
- Travel-friendly coverage – Use any Medicare provider nationwide, with some plans even offering limited foreign travel emergency benefits.
- Stable benefits year after year – Unlike Medicare Advantage, Medigap benefits don’t change annually as long as you pay your premium.
- Flexibility with prescriptions – Choose a standalone Part D drug plan that fits your medications and budget.
Timing Is Everything: Medicare Annual Enrollment Period
The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) runs from October 15 to December 7, 2025. This is the crucial window to:
- Leave a Medicare Advantage plan and return to Original Medicare (effective January 1, 2026).
- Enroll in a standalone Part D prescription drug plan to pair with your new Medicare Supplement.
💡 Important Note: You can technically apply for a Medicare Supplement plan any time of year. However, unless you qualify for a special right, your application may be subject to medical underwriting. That’s why AEP is the best time to review your coverage and make the switch.
What This Means for Central Oregon Medicare Beneficiaries
With only one Medicare Advantage plan available in Central Oregon for 2026, options are limited. Fortunately, there are many different Medicare Supplement plans to choose from in our area.
Our licensed agents at Bancorp Insurance can help you:
- Compare Medicare Supplement plans side by side.
- Review premiums, deductibles, and prescription coverage.
- Check if your doctors and hospitals are covered.
- Give you the tools to select the right Part D drug plan for your needs.
Ready to Review Your Medicare Options for 2026?
The changes for 2026 mean now is the time to act. Let us help you review your Medicare coverage before the December 7 deadline.
👉 Click here to Book a free 20–30 minute review with a licensed agent here.
Or call us directly at (541) 536-1726. Please have your Medicare card and a current list of prescriptions handy—we’ll walk you through everything step by step.
Don’t Wait — Prepare for 2026 Medicare Changes Now
If you live in Bend, La Pine, Redmond, Prineville, Sunriver, or anywhere in Central Oregon, these changes could impact your Medicare coverage. With fewer Medicare Advantage options available in 2026, reviewing your Supplement plan choices now can give you peace of mind and stable, predictable coverage for the future.
📅 Remember: The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period ends December 7, 2025.
Call Bancorp Insurance at (541) 536-1726 today to schedule your review and make sure you’re ready for the year ahead.
✅ Bancorp Insurance — Helping Central Oregonians navigate Medicare with confidence for over 35 years.
