Open Enrollment Is Coming: Know Your Health Insurance Options

Fall brings important opportunities to review your health insurance and choose coverage for the year ahead. Heartland’s insurance eligibility specialists can help you understand your options and find coverage that fits your needs and budget.

Medicare open enrollment begins Oct. 15, and Health Insurance Marketplace open enrollment begins Nov. 1, 2026. 

Medicare: Oct. 15 through Dec. 7

If you have Medicare, this is your annual opportunity to review and make changes to your Medicare health and prescription drug coverage. Take time to compare costs, check prescription coverage and confirm that your preferred providers participate in the plan you’re considering.

For help understanding your options, Heartland’s CHWs can help. The Senior Resource Center for Douglas County also offers free, unbiased Medicare counseling through the Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas, or SHICK, program.

Health Insurance Marketplace: Nov. 1 through Jan. 15

Open enrollment for 2027 Marketplace coverage runs Nov. 1, 2026, through Jan. 15, 2027. You can apply for insurance, renew your coverage or choose a different plan.

• Enroll by Dec. 15 for coverage beginning Jan. 1.

• Enroll Dec. 16 through Jan. 15 for coverage beginning Feb. 1.

Coverage begins after you pay your first premium, if one is required.

Already have Marketplace insurance? Review your options and update your expected income and household information. Plans and costs can change each year, and updating your application helps determine the financial assistance you qualify for.

KanCare: Apply Any Time of Year

KanCare, Kansas’ Medicaid program, accepts applications year-round. You do not need to wait for open enrollment to apply. Heartland’s insurance eligibility specialists can assist with understanding eligibility requirements and completing your application.

Questions About Coverage? Heartland Can Help.

Understanding health insurance can feel overwhelming. Heartland offers free, personalized assistance with KanCare, Medicare, and Marketplace coverage. Our insurance eligibility specialists can help you compare plans, check eligibility for financial assistance and complete enrollment.

With or without insurance, you are welcome at Heartland. Our sliding fee discount program helps eligible patients reduce out-of-pocket costs based on household income and size.

Call 785-841-7297 and ask to schedule an appointment with an insurance eligibility specialist.