10 KEY MEDICARE CHANGES TO KNOW IN 2026
FROM BALTIMORE WASHINGTON FINANCIAL ADVISORS
with
Thad Ismart | CFP®, ChFEBC, CEPS
Senior Financial Planner
Medicare is changing in 2026, and the updates will impact premiums, drug costs, and benefits. In this episode, BWFA’s Thad Ismart, CFP®, ChFEBC, CEPS, breaks down the 10 most important changes retirees and families need to know to stay prepared.
Full Description
Medicare plays a central role in retirement planning, but the program is constantly evolving. Beginning in 2026, significant changes are scheduled that will affect millions of Americans. Some updates may help retirees save money, while others could increase costs or reduce benefits.
In this episode of Healthy, Wealthy & Wise, BWFA’s Thad Ismart, CFP®, ChFEBC, CEPS, Senior Financial Planner, explains the 10 biggest Medicare changes coming in 2026 and what they mean for you. Among the most notable: Part B premiums are projected to increase by more than 11%, making healthcare more expensive for many retirees. On the other hand, prescription drug costs are expected to drop as new pricing rules take effect, and out-of-pocket caps will help limit spending.
Thad also highlights program adjustments that may surprise beneficiaries. Medicare Advantage plans could scale back supplemental benefits, while Original Medicare is introducing new pre-authorization requirements in pilot states. These changes underscore the need for proactive planning to ensure coverage continues to align with your healthcare and financial goals.
Listeners will gain practical strategies to navigate these shifts. Thad explains how to budget for rising premiums, how to take advantage of reduced drug prices, and why reviewing coverage annually is more important than ever. By understanding these changes in advance, retirees can avoid unpleasant surprises and adapt their plans to maintain stability.
At BWFA, we integrate healthcare costs into every financial plan, helping clients prepare for Medicare updates and the long-term expenses of retirement. This episode offers clear guidance on what’s ahead in 2026 and how to protect your financial future.
For more resources, visit BWFA’s Financial Planning Services.
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: RSS