Joining Medicare is simple if you follow the proper steps. You may enter the federal government’s healthcare plan for retired seniors during Fall Open Enrollment.
Here are essential points to know about how to approach, secure, and adjust a Medicare plan.
Open Enrollment Period
Medicare’s Fall Open Enrollment occurs each year from October 15 through December 7. You might also come across sources that refer to it as the Annual Election Period. During this time, you can join a new Medicare Advantage Plan and/or choose Part D, which encompasses prescription drugs.
Review Your Medicare Plan
The best way to adjust your Medicare plan for the future is to thoroughly review your current healthcare and drug coverage. Make sure it includes all the medications and treatments you expect in the coming years. This information may change in the future as your health changes, so it’s a good idea to update your plan once per year.
Adjust Your Plan Annually
If you are dissatisfied with your coverage for next year, make changes during Fall Open Enrollment. Any changes you elect to make during this time will take effect on January 1.
Reach Out for Professional Help
Since Medicare is such a vast program, it can be confusing and frustrating for seniors to navigate. The process will be less stressful and more insightful if you get in touch with a professional Medicare consultant.
How to Enroll in a New Medicare Plan
The best way to enroll in a new plan is to call 1-800-medicare. You’ll enroll faster if you do so directly through Medicare. When you speak with a Medicare representative, take notes that include the name of the Medicare representative, the date, and results of the conversation.
Can You Switch from Medicare Advantage?
After you’ve enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you may choose to switch back to Original Medicare during the next Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (MA OEP). If your health condition requires taking prescription drugs, you’ll need Medicare Part D to go with it. You can use Medicare’s Plan Finder tool to navigate through different prescription drug plans.
Understand Different Enrollment Periods
It’s helpful to know the difference between Medicare’s Fall Open Enrollment and Open Enrollment for the state or federal marketplaces, also called exchanges. These special channels usually don’t target individuals who are eligible for Medicare, as they are meant more for the uninsured and the underinsured.
Getting Proper Medicare Coverage
Medicare is available to seniors who have reached the age of 65. Some Americans end up paying more after missing the Open Enrollment period. If you would like to know more about your Medicare enrollment options, contact us at Medicare Advisors. Our team is ready to help you take greater control of your healthcare choices.