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Braven Medicare Advantage Announces Exit from NJ
Braven Medicare Advantage has announced its exit from NJ at the end of 2026.
Braven members have many options in choosing a new Medicare Advantage plan or going back to Original Medicare.
Braven members who do nothing will be put back into Original Medicare on 1/1/27.
The brokers at NJ Life and Health are here to help.
Written on 10/1/26
If you received a letter from Braven letting you know they are leaving the market in 2027, you are not alone. Tens of thousands of NJ residents will be faced with a difficult decision as they look for new coverage. This article will help you understand the timeline associated with Braven leaving and a quick overview of your options.
If you want to compare your options with a local professional – contact NJ Life and Health by calling 848-226-6897. You can also call 1-800-Medicare, visit medicare.gov, or visit your local SHIP office.
Affected by Braven’s departure? Explore your 2027 coverage options with our local Medicare brokers.
Big Dates to Know
September - October 2026: Braven cancellation letters arrive.
October 1st: New 2027 Medicare Advantage and Part D plans become public on medicare.gov.
October 15th - December 7th: Standard Medicare Annual Enrollment Period.
November 1st, 2026 - February 28th, 2027: Special enrollment period for people whose MA plans were discontinued. (Note: if you sign up for a new MA or PDP plan in January, the policy won’t start until February 2027.)
January 1st, 2027: Old plan ends; new coverage begins.
Potential Coverage Options
Choose a New Medicare Advantage Plan
Best for: People who want to stay in the Medicare Advantage system.
Benefits:
Smooth transition.
Plans are often more similar in cost than you may think.
Can enroll during standard or extended enrollment periods.
Switch to Original Medicare + Supplement
Best for: People who no longer want Medicare Advantage.
Important to know:
Requires medical underwriting in most states.
Insurance companies can deny you for pre-existing conditions.
Generally higher monthly costs but can potentially have a lower out-of-pocket cost overall.
Some states and situations give you Guaranteed Issue rights, meaning there are no health questions or evaluation required for your policy.
Original Medicare Only
Not recommended due to significant coverage gaps and no out-of-pocket maximum. You could face exponential costs for major medical events.
What to Evaluate in Any New Plan
Doctor Networks
Call your doctors' offices directly and ask:
Which plans do they accept
Which plans do they prefer working with?
Which create administrative problems?
Prescription Coverage
Every plan has a "formulary" - the list of covered drugs and their costs:
Are your medications covered?
What tier are they on? (affects your cost).
Any quantity limits or prior authorization needed?
Do they work with your preferred pharmacy?
Costs & Extra Benefits Comparison
What are the copays and costs for the services you use most.
What is your out-of-pocket maximum?
Do they give extra benefits and perks like dental, vision, gym memberships, Part B givebacks and OTC Cards?
Get Professional Help
Licensed Medicare brokers like NJ Life and Health can:
Compare options in your area.
Help you avoid coverage gaps.
Help ensure you meet all deadlines.
Provide ongoing annual reviews.
Look through drug coverage changes.
Help you when plans like Braven leave the market
Author Bio
Ken Connolly is a licensed life and health insurance broker who has helped over 500 people with their Medicare and life insurance needs.
To learn more about Medicare talk to NJ Life and Health. Visit us https://www.njlifeandhealth.com/ or call their Toms River, NJ office at 848-226-6897.
We do not offer every plan available in your area. For information on all of your options, visit medicare.gov, contact 1-800-Medicare, or vist your local SHIP office.
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