What is OEP (Open Enrollment Period)?

Definition

The Medicare Open Enrollment Period (OEP) runs from January 1 through March 31 each year. During this period, people already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan can switch to a different Medicare Advantage plan or return to Original Medicare (and join a Part D plan). Note: This is different from the ACA Open Enrollment Period for marketplace health insurance plans.

Why OEP (Open Enrollment Period) Matters for Insurance

OEP provides a second sales window for Medicare insurance agents after AEP. While volume is typically lower than AEP, conversion rates can be higher because prospects are actively dissatisfied with their current plan choice. Smart agencies maintain staffing and marketing during OEP to capture these high-intent leads.

Key Points

• Medicare OEP runs January 1 through March 31 annually
• Only available to people already in a Medicare Advantage plan
• Can switch MA plans or disenroll from MA to return to Original Medicare
• Changes take effect the first of the month after the plan receives the enrollment request
• Different from ACA Open Enrollment (typically November 1 - January 15)

OEP Strategy for Call Centers

OEP call volume typically runs 30-50% of AEP volume but conversion rates can be 15-25% higher because callers are actively dissatisfied with their current plan. Expected call volume spikes occur in early January (new plan effective date) and late March (deadline rush). Staffing considerations: maintain 40-60% of AEP headcount; focus on experienced agents who can handle plan-comparison conversations. Medicare OEP differs from ACA OEP: Medicare OEP (Jan 1–Mar 31) applies only to those already in Medicare Advantage; ACA Open Enrollment (Nov 1–Jan 15) is for marketplace plans. Agencies serving both need separate staffing and marketing strategies.

Best Practices for OEP Readiness

Prepare lead lists of current MA enrollees who may be shopping. Train agents on plan comparison and disenrollment scenarios. Update scripts for OEP-specific messaging (one-time switch opportunity). Monitor compliance—CMS rules remain strict. Use DNIS to track OEP-specific campaigns separately from AEP.

Read ACA Open Enrollment Strategies and explore Medicare Dialer.