Hey everyone,
I wanted to share a crucial tip for those of us on Medicare Advantage or Supplement plans: reviewing your plan annually. It might not seem like a big deal, but trust me, it can make a world of difference.
Every year, Medicare Advantage and Supplement plans change. Yes, every single one of them! They adjust coverage, costs, and benefits. What's more, they often introduce new benefits that could be incredibly useful to you.
One of the biggest mistakes I've made in the past was assuming that my plan would stay the same. I found out the hard way that plans can drop benefits that I needed. Imagine my surprise when a critical feature I relied on was no longer covered!
By taking the time to review your plan each year, you can stay informed about any changes. This allows you to make sure you're still getting the coverage you need. But the real hidden gem in this process is discovering new benefits.
Healthcare is constantly evolving, and so are these plans. You might find that a new benefit has been added that could greatly benefit your health and well-being. It could be anything from expanded prescription coverage to fitness memberships or even telehealth services.
Here are a few quick steps to make this process easier:
**Mark Your Calendar**: Set a reminder for yourself to review your plan before the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP). This usually runs from October 15th to December 7th each year.
**Check for Changes**: Look at the Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) that your plan sends out. This document details any changes to your plan for the upcoming year.
**Compare Plans**: Don't be afraid to shop around! There are plenty of resources available online, including Medicare's official website, where you can compare plans based on your needs.
**Consider Your Health Needs**: Think about any changes in your health over the past year. Do you need different coverage now? Are there new treatments or medications you're considering?
**Ask for Help**: If you're feeling overwhelmed, there are counselors available through State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIP) who can help you navigate these decisions.
Remember, your health and well-being are worth this extra effort. Don't miss out on potential benefits that could make a real difference in your life. Take the time to review your Medicare plans annually—you'll thank yourself later!
Stay healthy, everyone!
https://form.jotform.com/laurenmichaelspr/EasyMedUpgrade
original posted by TheRealLaurenPR to r/personalfinance on Mon, 04 Mar 2024 20:05:58 GMT.