Please click the following link to see more newsletter articles published on our blog:

http://longtermcareinsurancescottsdale.wordpress.com/

  Your comments are welcome!

CLICK HERE 

Your Medicare Health Plans

Important tips to consider during the Medicare annual election period.

If the pandemic is teaching us anything at all, it's that maintaining good health is of paramount concern.

Some people realize this firsthand because they contracted COVID-19 last fall, including some physicians, nurses and other medical professionals. Those fortunate enough to recover from the experience helped them reinforce the importance of having a health plan that met their needs.

People who are age 65 and over will have a chance to make sure they have the coverage needed during the 2022 annual election period (Oct 15th thru Dec 7th).

If you are Medicare-eligible, now is the time to begin thinking about your health needs and plan your strategy.

Remember that during this period, you can receive a review of your Part C (Medicare Advantage) or Part D (prescription drug) plan then choose a new option that takes effect January 1, 2022. If you are happy with your current plans, no changes are necessary.

The key is understanding your benefits and also anticipating the health care you may need next year. Our health status changes year to year as we enter new phases of life.

Wondering where to start? It's always recommended to begin with YOU. Why? Because you know yourself better than anyone.

Think about where you are in terms of your health and expectations for what you will need in the year ahead and, from there, move forward.

If you already have a Part C Medicare plan, make a list of your preferences. What are the aspects of the better things you consider mandatory – for example, a favorite  physician, vision coverage or a fitness benefit. Will you need to see a specialist in the near future? Are you planning on moving?

As with other important life decisions, choosing your health plan can be daunting and confusing. The good news is there are many information resources available to you. Ask advice from your doctor, friends and family until you're comfortable.

You can also have your questions answered by experts through computer screen-share and phone calls with independent health plan brokers.*

Here are a few of the essential tips to keep in mind this year when reviewing plans:

Consider All Expenses

To estimate total costs, first, know your Part C or Part D plan's current premium or monthly cost.

Second, check your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) letter mailed in late September for any changes to out-of-pocket costs, including co-pays and deductibles on doctor and hospital visits and prescription drugs.

Finally, check to see what the cost will be if you need to see a specialist. In some Part C plans, you may pay more if you go outside your network and may need to fill the gaps with ancillary insurance.

Confirm In-Network Doctors

Another reason you might want to change your coverage is that your plan no longer has your favorite doctors in the network. Make a list of the doctors and any specialists you expect to visit in the upcoming year. Confirm that your current providers are still in your plan or any new doctors who accept new patients that you will be visiting. If not, you might either have to change plans or switch doctors to avoid paying higher out-of-pocket costs. 

Review Your Prescriptions

Make sure you review the drug pricing tiers to know whether your Medicare Part D prescription plan will cover your current medications and the costs. Some drug plans might require prior authorization for certain brand-name drugs.

Weigh the Extras

Pay attention to extra benefits not available with original Medicare but which may be built into a private insurer's Medicare Part C plan at no additional cost, such as limited dental, vision, transportation or even an allowance for purchasing certain over-the-counter items. There may also be other health and wellness benefits that help you stay healthy such as fitness programs or telehealth for non-emergency medical care.

Travel Restrictions

As some travel restrictions are being eased, or even if you have a second home in another state, consider a plan with those needs in mind.

Having a checklist of questions will make it easier when reviewing all of your options.*

Remember that it is up to you to be sure your health plan works for YOU. Once you have found one that meets your individual needs, take advantage of the benefits so you can thrive all year long.

*Schedule a review with EHB Insurance Group for assistance to compare your current plan.