If health insurance choices make your head spin, you’re in very good company. And when you live with type 1 diabetes (T1D), the stakes feel even higher. Your plan decides what you’ll pay for insulin, sensors, pump supplies and visits with your endo all year long.
The good news? You don’t have to figure it all out today, and you don’t have to do it alone. This guide covers the 2027 open enrollment dates, what to check if you have T1D, and free places to get help. Skim for the section that fits you.
When is Open Enrollment for 2027?
Time is the one thing you cannot get back, so check your date first.
| If your coverage is… | Your window |
| Marketplace (ACA) | Opens Nov 1. Most states close Jan 15. Enroll by Dec 15 for coverage starting Jan 1. Some states set their own dates, so be sure to check yours. |
| Medicare | Oct 15 to Dec 7 |
| Medicaid and CHIP | Open all year |
| Through your employer | Ask HR for your window |
If you or someone you love has diabetes
Insurance choices can feel even bigger when insulin, supplies and devices are part of the picture. These resources are made for you.
- American Diabetes Association or call 1-800-DIABETES
- Breakthrough T1D Health Insurance Guide
- GetInsulin.org (from Beyond Type 1)
- Manufacturer programs: insulin, CGM and pump makers often offer copay and assistance programs, so check their websites.
If your insurance comes through work
- Start with HR. Ask for the Summary of Benefits and Coverage (SBC) for each plan. It’s a standard format, so it makes plans easy to compare side by side. Then call member services at the number on your insurance card to ask about your insulin, devices, and doctors.
- U.S. Department of Labor (EBSA) or call 1-866-444-3272
- Your state Department of Insurance
Tip: Write down your questions before you call, such as “Is my doctor in network?” and “What does my prescription cost?” You will feel much calmer with a short list in front of you.
If you are buying your own plan
- Shop and enroll in your state’s marketplace.
- Talk to a real person: the Marketplace Call Center is open 24/7 at 1-800-318-2596.
- Find local help
- See what help with costs you might get: KFF calculator
- Read plain-language guides for your state
If you only do one thing here, try the KFF calculator. It can show you what your costs might look like before you commit to anything.
Medicare, Medicaid and CHIP
Medicare’s window closes Dec 7, so if this is you, it’s worth acting soon. Free counselors can walk you through it.
- Medicare or call 1-800-MEDICARE
- Free Medicare counseling (SHIP)
- Medicaid and CHIP or your state Medicaid agency
- Coverage for kids
Free help with denials, appeals and costs
Getting a “no” from your insurance company is frustrating, but it is not always the final answer. These groups help people through denials, appeals and high costs, for free.
- Patient Advocate Foundation
- Triage Cancer. Their guides are great for anyone with a chronic condition, not only cancer.
One small step for today
You don’t have to pick a plan today. Pick one small step instead: check your deadline, send HR one email, or save one phone number from this page.
Every plan is a choice you can work through one piece at a time, and plenty of free, friendly people are ready to help you do it. You’ve got this.
Blue Circle Health offers free virtual care for adults with T1D in select states, including clinical care, education, and support alongside your existing care team. Check your eligibility.
This content is for general informational purposes only and isn’t insurance, legal, or medical advice. Dates and rules can change, so confirm with your plan or marketplace.
