Medicare’s Annual Open Enrollment period begins October 15th and ends December 7th. This annual event gives Medicare recipients the opportunity to make changes to their existing plans. Considering changes to things such as costs and providers, have you considered making changes this open enrollment period? You should at least consider reevaluating your needs and coverage options to see if you should, in fact, take the opportunity to make some changes.
Those who are already enrolled in Medicare should have received an “annual notice of change” back in September. The notice sets forth changes on the horizon for the coming year. These changes may relate to things such as premiums, deductibles, and copays. To see if you currently have the best Medicare coverage available to you, start by reviewing the past six months of your medical expenses and see if perhaps a different Medicare plan would best serve your needs.
Are you familiar with all that Medicare has to offer in the way of coverage? Medicare beneficiaries without some sort of Medicare Supplement Insurance, Medigap, may face Medicare cost-sharing if they have health problems. Original Medicare pays for much, but not all of the cost for covered health care services and supplies. A Medigap policy can help pay some of the remaining health care costs. If you are not able to purchase a Medigap policy, a Medicare Medical Savings Account (MSA) might be a good option.
You may also want to investigate more into something such as Medicare Advantage. Medicare Advantage plans are a type of Medicare health plan offered by a private company that contracts with Medicare to provide all of your Part A and Part B benefits. Most Medicare Advantage plans also offer prescription drug coverage. Before switching to a Medicare Advantage plan, be sure to examine it closely to see if it makes sense.
To access more Medicare plan information or compare plans, call 1-800-MEDICARE or visit Medicare. Many of our attorneys are also available to help you find the best Medicare coverage for your own unique circumstances. Use our Find a Lawyer feature on our website to reach out to them today to schedule an appointment.