If you live on Florida’s Treasure Coast, Medicare isn’t just a federal program — it’s a major part of everyday life. With a large retiree population across Martin County, St. Lucie County, and Indian River County, staying informed about Medicare updates is essential to protecting both your health and your finances.
As we move further into 2026, several important Medicare trends and planning opportunities are affecting local beneficiaries. Here’s what residents of the Treasure Coast should be paying attention to right now.
Why Medicare Planning Matters on the Treasure Coast
Communities like Stuart, Palm City, Jensen Beach, Port St. Lucie, and Vero Beach have one of the highest concentrations of Medicare-eligible residents in Florida. That means:
More Medicare Advantage plan options
Competitive Medicare Supplement (Medigap) pricing
Frequent provider network changes
Increased marketing — and unfortunately, increased scam activity
Because plan availability and provider networks can vary by ZIP code, local guidance matters more than ever.
1. Medicare Advantage Plan Changes in 2026
Each year, Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans adjust:
Monthly premiums
Maximum out-of-pocket limits
Copays and coinsurance
Provider networks
Prescription drug formularies
In the Treasure Coast area, we’re seeing:
Continued emphasis on $0 premium Medicare Advantage plans
Expanded dental, vision, and hearing benefits
Changes in specialist copays
Network adjustments affecting certain local physicians and hospitals
Even if you’ve been happy with your plan in the past, it’s important to review your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC). Many beneficiaries are surprised to learn their doctor is no longer in-network or that prescription tiers have shifted.
2. Medicare Prescription Drug (Part D) Updates
Prescription drug costs continue to be one of the biggest concerns for seniors in Martin County and surrounding areas.
Recent Medicare reforms have:
Reduced certain out-of-pocket prescription costs
Adjusted catastrophic coverage rules
Changed how plans structure their formularies
If you take specialty medications or brand-name prescriptions, reviewing your Part D coverage annually is critical. A small formulary change can mean thousands of dollars in difference over the course of a year.
3. Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Stability
Many Treasure Coast retirees prefer the predictability of Medicare Supplement plans paired with Original Medicare.
Benefits include:
Freedom to see any provider nationwide who accepts Medicare
Minimal referral requirements
Predictable out-of-pocket costs
However, premiums can increase annually. 2026 has brought rate adjustments in several Medigap plans across Florida. If you’ve had your supplement for years, it may be worth reviewing whether comparable plans are available at a more competitive rate (subject to underwriting in many cases).
4. Medicare Scams Are Increasing in Florida
Florida consistently ranks among the top states for Medicare-related fraud. On the Treasure Coast, we regularly hear reports of:
Phone calls claiming to be from “Medicare”
Offers of free braces or medical equipment
Requests for Medicare numbers over the phone
Door-to-door sales attempts
Important reminder:
Medicare will not call you unsolicited to ask for your number or personal information.
If you suspect fraud, report it immediately and never share your Medicare ID with unknown callers.
5. When Can You Make Changes?
Knowing your enrollment windows is critical:
Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)
October 15 – December 7
Change Medicare Advantage or Part D plans.
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period
January 1 – March 31
Switch Medicare Advantage plans or return to Original Medicare (if eligible).
Special Enrollment Periods (SEP)
Triggered by life events such as:
Moving
Losing employer coverage
Qualifying for Extra Help
Because so many residents relocate to Florida mid-year, Special Enrollment Periods are especially common on the Treasure Coast.
Why Working with a Local Medicare Advisor Matters
Online plan comparisons don’t always show:
Local provider network nuances
Real-world feedback about plan service
How plans perform specifically in Martin, St. Lucie, or Indian River counties
A local independent Medicare advisor can:
Compare multiple carriers
Explain plan tradeoffs clearly
Review prescription coverage
Ensure your doctors are in-network
Help you avoid costly enrollment mistakes
Most importantly, local support means you have someone to call year-round — not just during enrollment season.
Medicare Planning for Treasure Coast Retirees
Whether you’re turning 65, relocating to Florida, or reviewing your current coverage for 2026, proactive Medicare planning can:
Reduce unexpected out-of-pocket costs
Protect access to preferred doctors
Improve prescription affordability
Provide peace of mind
Medicare isn’t “set it and forget it.” With annual plan changes and evolving regulations, reviewing your coverage each year is one of the smartest financial health decisions you can make.
Need Help Reviewing Your Medicare Options?
If you live in Martin County or anywhere on Florida’s Treasure Coast, now is the perfect time to schedule a Medicare review. Even a quick plan check can uncover savings opportunities or prevent costly surprises.
Staying informed today protects your health — and your wallet — tomorrow.