From Florida Blue
Are you ready for Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period, also referred to as AEP? Medicare AEP lasts until December 7th. It’s the time each year when you can switch your Medicare plan or add to your coverage. Most plans change a little from year to year, so it’s a smart idea to evaluate your coverage and find out if another plan better meets your needs. Check out these tips to get the Medicare plan that’s best for you.
Related: Florida Congressional members warn about Florida’s looming health care crisis.
“With Medicare's Annual Enrollment Period just around the corner, make sure you carefully consider all your plan options, ask important questions, and put your needs first to find the right plan,” said Alisha Pieraccini, senior vice president for Florida Blue Medicare. “A licensed agent can help guide you through the process and support you every step of the way.”
- Know your options
Medicare isn’t one size fits all. If you choose Original Medicare, you can add a Medicare Supplement plan to help cover out-of-pocket expenses and a Part D plan to cover your drugs. Or you can choose a Medicare Advantage plan that combines all your benefits into one easy-to-manage plan
2, Ask questions.
Just because your Medicare plan met your needs last year doesn’t mean it meets them now. If you had a Medicare Advantage plan last year, pay close attention to your Annual Notice of Changes (ANOC) letter when you get it in the mail. Review the changes to see if your plan’s still meeting your needs. Ask yourself:
- Has my health changed?
- What has changed with my current plan?
- Are the services I need covered?
- Are my doctors still in network?
- Are my prescriptions covered?
- Does my current coverage travel with me wherever I go?
- Set priorities and determine must haves
Before you start shopping, know what matters most to you. Perhaps keeping your costs low is most important or maybe it’s making sure your doctors are in the plan’s network. Dental and hearing care are not included in Original Medicare (Parts A and B). Medicare Advantage plans include the same coverage as Original Medicare, often with extra benefits, like dental, hearing, and care. Some plans also include over-the-counter allowances and fitness benefits. Figure out your top priorities to help in your decision-making process.
- Make a list of your doctors and all your prescriptions.
Make a list of your doctors and drugs so you can make sure your Medicare plan covers them and you understand any costs.
- Review your potential health care needs.
Even if you’re active and healthy, make sure you understand the costs and how various health scenarios are covered. Don’t get caught unprepared.
- Calculate your out-of-pocket expenses.
Add up your out-of-pocket expenses and compare it with the total costs for other Medicare plans. Make the most informed decision for your health and budget.
Have questions about Medicare or want help? It’s good to talk with a licensed agent to find about the options that might be a good fit your you. You can also visit FloridaBlue.com/Medicare.
