Medicare Changes in 2026: Everything Tampa Bay Area Residents Need To Know
Yes, we are already talking about 2026, and before you know it, it will be here. This is the article you need to read if you have Medicare. In this article, “Medicare Changes in 2026: Everything Tampa Bay Area Residents Need To Know,” we will explain what you need to know so you are up-to-date.
IMPORTANT NOTE: This article is a living article that will be automatically updated as new information or numbers are released by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).
Rising Premiums and Deductibles: What Tampa Bay Seniors Can Expect
ne of the most talked-about Medicare changes for 2026 involves increases in premiums and deductibles, particularly for Medicare Part B (which covers doctor visits, outpatient care, and preventive services) and Part D (prescription drugs). According to recent announcements, Medicare Part B premiums are projected to rise.
Before the official announcement, the annual Medicare Trustees Report provides projections for the upcoming year. Some estimates show double-digit increases in certain areas. This could mean an additional $10 to $20, or more, per month for many beneficiaries, depending on their income levels and plan choices.
For instance, the 2025 report projected a standard Part B premium of $206.50 for 2026; however, this is not yet final. The updated numbers are usually released around the end of October or the beginning of November by CMS. We will update this article as soon as that happens.
Medicare Part A deductibles are also set to increase!
Potentially by around 3-5% based on historical trends and recent projections. While most people don’t pay a premium for Part A if they’ve worked long enough to qualify, the deductible for inpatient hospital stays with Original Medicare could climb to over $1,600. This is especially relevant for seniors in Hernando or Citrus counties, where access to hospitals might involve longer drives, making cost predictability even more important.
✅ Major Reforms to Medicare Part D: Lower Out-of-Pocket Caps and Payment Plans
Perhaps the biggest headline for 2026 is the ongoing implementation of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) provisions, which continue to reshape prescription drug coverage. The out-of-pocket maximum for Medicare Part D plans will increase slightly to $2,100, up from $2,000 in 2025, due to inflation indexing
Once you hit this cap, you’ll pay nothing more for covered drugs for the rest of the year—a huge relief for those with chronic conditions requiring expensive medications.
Another exciting update is the expansion of the Medicare Prescription Drug Payment Plan, which allows beneficiaries to spread their drug costs over the year in predictable monthly payments. This is particularly beneficial for residents in Polk or Sumter counties, where seasonal income from tourism or agriculture might fluctuate. However, Part D deductibles may rise, potentially to $590 or more, so budgeting ahead is key.
The Extra Help program (Low-Income Subsidy) is also expanding, making it easier for low-income individuals to qualify for reduced or zero premiums and deductibles.
Medicare Advantage (Part C) Updates: Opportunities and Challenges in Florida
Medicare Advantage plans, popular in the Tampa Bay area for their extra benefits like dental, vision, and gym memberships, will see several tweaks in 2026. CMS has finalized a 5.06% average benchmark payment increase for MA plans, injecting over $25 billion in new funding. This could lead to more robust offerings from carriers like UnitedHealthcare, Humana, and Aetna, which MyPhss represents as an independent broker.
A positive change for Florida residents: Starting in 2026, Medicare Advantage, Medicaid, and ACA plans must provide decisions on urgent medical procedures within 72 hours. This speeds up prior authorizations, reducing delays for critical care, which is vital in areas like Pasco County, with its growing senior population.
However, average MA premiums might edge up slightly, and some plans could adjust benefits to manage costs. In Tampa Bay, where hurricanes and flooding can disrupt access to healthcare, choosing a plan with strong network coverage in Hillsborough or Pinellas is crucial. Additionally, enhanced provider directory requirements will make it easier to find in-network doctors.
How to Prepare for 2026 Medicare Changes in the Tampa Bay Area
To make the most of these updates, start by reviewing your current plan during AEP. Here’s a quick checklist tailored for local residents:
- Assess Your Needs: Consider your health conditions and frequent providers. If you live in Manatee County and need dental coverage, look for MA plans with strong extras.
- Compare Options: Use tools like the Medicare Plan Finder or MyPhss’s free quote tool at MyPhss.com to compare Part D plans, especially with the new cap.
- Budget for Increases: Factor in higher Part B premiums—projected around $185 monthly for standard beneficiaries—and rising deductibles.
- Explore Payment Plans: If drug costs are high, consider enrolling in the Prescription Payment Plan to alleviate upfront financial burdens.
- Seek Personalized Advice: House calls are our specialty at MyPhss. We serve the entire Tampa Bay region, from Hernando to Polk, with in-home consultations.
>> Don’t forget: Changes take effect January 1, 2026, so acting now during AEP ensures a smooth transition.
Why Choose MyPhss for Your 2026 Medicare Needs
Here in the Tampa Bay area, Pasco, Hernando, Hillsborough, Pinellas, Citrus, and Polk counties, plan availability and provider networks can vary by neighborhood. We stay focused on the exact plan types that fit your doctors, pharmacies, and budget.
📍 Local, Personal Service in Tampa Bay
At MyPhss, we’re not a call center or some out-of-state company. We are licensed local brokers who live and work right here in Tampa Bay.
We serve clients in:
Pasco County: New Port Richey, Dade City, Zephyrhills, Land O’ Lakes
Hernando County: Spring Hill, Brooksville
Pinellas County: Clearwater, Largo, St. Pete, Tarpon Springs
Hillsborough County: Tampa, Brandon, Plant City, Lutz
Polk County: Lakeland, Winter Haven, Bartow
Citrus County: Inverness, Crystal River, Homosassa
Whether you want to meet in person, talk on the phone, or do everything online, we make it simple. There’s no cost, no pressure, and no obligation — just honest help.
Contact Us Today
Whether you’re new to Medicare or considering switching your plan or you are looking for a fair and competitive quote for an Final Expense / Burial plan, we’re here to help you every step of the way.
📞 Call us at (813) 328-4664
📧 Email us at support@myphss.com
🌐 Visit us online at MyPHSS.com
Let’s protect your golden years with peace of mind and the right Final Expense or Medicare plan.
I intended to address most of your questions in this article, but if I missed anything, please email me at daniel@myphss.com, and I will be happy to answer your question.
