Medicare Open Enrollment Is Here — SHINE Counselors Ready to Help, But Appointments Are Filling Fast Cape Cod & Islands SHINE Program
Published on: October 15, 2026
Medicare’s annual Open Enrollment period is officially underway, running from October 15 through December 7, 2026. During this critical window, Medicare beneficiaries can review, compare, and change their health and prescription drug coverage for the coming year and the Cape Cod & Islands SHINE (Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Everyone) Program is here to help residents navigate their options at no cost.
Each year, Medicare plans can change their costs, covered medications, and provider networks. Even beneficiaries who are satisfied with their current coverage are strongly encouraged to review their plans during Open Enrollment, as a quick check can often reveal meaningful savings or better-suited coverage for the year ahead.
High Demand Across the Region
Interest in this year’s Open Enrollment has been exceptionally strong, and SHINE’s trained, certified counselors are working hard to meet the demand. As a result, several of our most popular counseling sites are now fully booked, including:
- Barnstable Adult Community Center
- Sandwich Center for Active Living
- Harwich Council on Aging
- Martha’s Vineyard Healthcare Access Program at Dukes County
In addition, the Regional SHINE Office in Barnstable Village has reached capacity for in-person appointments and is currently booking phone appointments only.
How to Get Help
If your preferred location is full, please don’t be discouraged — help is still available:
- Call your local Council on Aging to ask about SHINE appointment availability at nearby sites.
- Request a telephone appointment through the Regional SHINE Office, a convenient option that allows you to receive the same expert, one-on-one guidance from the comfort of home.
- Plan ahead and schedule as early as possible, as availability continues to fill quickly throughout the enrollment period.
- Attend a local presentation or webinar. Click here for more info.
SHINE counseling is always free, confidential, and unbiased. Our counselors do not sell or endorse any insurance plans; their only goal is to help you understand your choices and make the decision that’s right for you.
If you received notice that your health or prescription drug plan is ending—including Aetna SilverScript Part D or Fallon Health Medicare Advantage (Orange and Green)—
You qualify for a Special Enrollment Period and may schedule an appointment through December 31 to review your options.
To schedule an appointment, contact your local Council on Aging or the Regional SHINE Office today.
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