How to get ready for Medicare Open Enrollment

Medicare Open Enrollment will be here before you know it. It begins October 15. But before then, you will receive your Annual Notice of Change from your current Medicare Advantage carrier. This document contains important information on all the changes you will see in your plan for 2020.

Evaluate your 2020 coverage.

Some people keep the same Medicare Advantage/Prescription Drug plan year after year, never questioning whether it’s their best choice. This is a mistake. Plans change their costs and coverage from year to year. Plus, your health care needs may have change as well. It is important for you to take some time to look over your Annual Notice of Change to be sure your plan continues to serve you well.

Begin by looking at any changes in costs. Note any increases or decreases in your deductibles, co-pays, co-insurance and monthly premiums. Check the out-of-pocket maximum you will pay before the plan covers all your medical costs. All these costs can vary from plan to plan and from year to year, so this is a good place to begin your comparisons.

Next, make sure your doctors, hospitals and other health care providers will be in your plan’s network in 2020.

Finally, review any changes in your benefits. Are your prescriptions in the formulary? See if there will be any changes in your share of prescription costs. Also, make sure your preferred pharmacy is included in your plan.

Double check on any changes or addition of extra benefits not normally covered by Original Medicare. These may include routine vision and dental care, hearing exams, hearing aids and fitness club memberships. Some plans have added additional options including allowances for over-the-counter medications, home safety devices, meal delivery following a hospital stay and much more.

If you have questions

Call me to make an appointment to discuss your needs. As an independent broker, I represent a number of companies and can show you how coverage differs and help you find a plan that fits your needs. And remember, you pay no more to purchase insurance through an agent or broker than through an 800 number. Brokers and agents are compensated by the insurance company, not the customer.

Call me, Laura Mutsko at Mutsko Insurance Services at 440-255-5700 or email me at Lmutsko@mutskoinsurance.com to set up an appointment today. Together, we will find the right plan for you.