Treasure Mike Pieciak spoke today about time running out to sign up for Medicare plans and Vermont Health Connect as time is running out. Also speaking were, from right, Christina Oliver, Mike Fisher, Senator Kesha Ram Hinsdale and Senator Ginny Lyons. VermontBiz photo.
Vermont Business Magazine Today at the Community Health Centers of Burlington, Treasurer Mike Pieciak, Chief Health Care Advocate Mike Fisher, legislative leaders, and healthcare coverage specialists held a press conference urging Vermonters to act as soon possible to secure their health insurance for 2026.
As Congress lets the enhanced Affordable Care Act subsidies expire, and most Medicare Advantage plans pull out of the state, officials gathered to highlight deadlines, offer guidance, and provide resources to help Vermonters understand their options. The MA plans are now unavailable in most counties, representing about 50,000 Vermonters, while some plans are still available in a handful of counties in southern and eastern Vermont.
Treasurer Pieciak stressed that the changes could leave tens of thousands uninsured or underinsured, driving up health care costs across the state.
“Right now, tens of thousands of Vermonters face an impossible choice: pay skyrocketing premiums or risk financial ruin from a health emergency,” said Treasurer Pieciak. “As Vermonters make difficult decisions with their budgets, we want them to know that resources are available to help them understand the best options for themselves and their families.”
Due to congressional inaction, the cost of health insurance on Vermont Health Connect is rising for many Vermonters. To avoid any lapses in coverage, Chief Health Care Advocate Mike Fisher encouraged those who get their health insurance through the exchange to evaluate their options as soon as possible and secure their coverage before December 15, 2025. The final deadline for Vermont Health Connect open enrollment is January 15, 2026.
“For too many Vermonters, these premium spikes are simply unaffordable,” said Fisher. “At the Health Care Advocate office, we’re hearing from families who are seeing their monthly costs double or even triple overnight. If you get your insurance through Vermont Health Connect, please do not wait—explore your options and ask for help if you need it so you and your family stay covered.”
For Vermonters whose Medicare Advantage plans are leaving the state, officials noted there is a special enrollment period to secure a Medigap or Medicare Part D prescription drug plan. To avoid any lapses in coverage, Vermonters must switch to a Medigap or Medicare Part D plan before December 31, 2025. The deadline to enroll in a Part D plan is February 28, 2026.
Vermonters enrolling in a Medigap plan are entitled to a Guaranteed Issue Right until March 4, 2026. This status prohibits providers from charging higher premiums due to health factors like a pre-existing condition, making plans more affordable.
Christina Oliver, a health insurance broker with NFP & Northeast Insurance Broker Services, emphasized the changes have been challenging for Vermonters to navigate.
“This is a difficult situation for Vermonters because the financial impact is significant and time is limited,” said Oliver. “In most cases, seniors need multiple plans to replace their Medicare Advantage and maintain coverage for prescriptions, dental, vision and hearing. It’s imperative that Vermonters act now to avoid any gaps in their coverage.”
Senator Ginny Lyons, chair of the Vermont Senate Health & Welfare Committee, said Vermonters are facing real uncertainty from Medicare Advantage plans leaving the state.
“Elimination of Medicare Advantage plans presents an unexpected crisis for many Vermonters,” said Senator Lyons. “The Vermont Senate and the Health and Welfare committee will continue to do everything it can to make health care more affordable and accessible for Vermonters regardless of age or income, and as Legislators, we stand ready to guide constituents in need of support toward services."
Senator Kesha Ram Hinsdale offered support for Vermonters, noting the changes have left constituents and businesses in her district scrambling for solutions.
“For many Vermonters this is difficult news to absorb but understanding what’s happening—and knowing the deadlines—is the best way to protect yourself and your family. None of us should have to navigate this alone. Having honest conversations now and reaching out for help can make this moment far more manageable, and we are committed to ensuring every Vermonter gets the clarity and support they need.”
Treasurer Pieciak also underscored that additional steps are needed to ensure healthcare is truly affordable and accessible for every Vermonter. “Vermonters deserve stable, reliable healthcare coverage,” Pieciak said. “I will continue advancing efforts to make healthcare more affordable and accessible, and I look forward to sharing more on this soon.” Earlier this year, Pieciak led a statewide initiative that will eliminate up to $100 million in medical debt for working and middle-class Vermonters, offering relief to thousands of families.
Resources from Vermont Legal Aid are available to help Vermonters understand the 2026 Vermont Health Connect changes and the 2026 Medicare Advantage changes. Vermonters with questions about health insurance or access to care can contact Vermont Legal Aid by calling 1-800-917-7787 or visiting Vtlawhelp.org/health.
12.9.2025. Office of the Vermont State Treasurer
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