Don't Leave these Benefits on the Table

Fall is a good time to take a look at where you stand with your health insurance benefits. There are a number of benefits you may lose if you do not use them before the end of the year.

Dental Benefits

Maxing out benefits is especially important when it comes to dental coverage. Most Medicare Advantage plans with dental coverage provide a set amount of coverage that goes away if it is not used. For example, if you don’t get that second cleaning in December, it doesn’t mean you can get three cleanings the following year. The problem arises when dentists get booked up as everyone tries to use their benefits before they lose them. If you have benefits remaining, schedule your appointment for your exam and any procedures now, before appointment times with your dentist become scarce.

Vision, Hearing & Podiatry Benefits

Check whether your insurance covers vision, hearing and/or podiatry care. Don’t miss your chance to get in an exam or get new glasses, contacts or hearing aids using this year’s benefits. If you are in the market for any of these services, start by calling your insurer for a list of their preferred providers and set up an appointment soon.

Immunizations & Tests

If you have not yet had your annual Medicare physical, make an appointment for it now. Your physician will update any immunizations and order any tests and screenings you need. If you have already met your deductible for 2018, your share of the costs will be minimal.

Important Dates & Information

You will be receiving important information concerning Medicare, your Medicare Advantage Plan or Medicare Prescription Part D coverage before the end of September. Your “Medicare and You” handbook outlines your Medicare benefits and is your reference guide for 2019. The Annual Notice of Change from your insurance provider outlines changes in cost, coverage, network providers and prescription drug costs for 2019.

Please set aside some time to review this information in detail. If you find your plan is making changes and no longer works for you, your time to switch to a new plan is coming soon. Medicare’s Open Enrollment period begins on October 15 and ends on December 7.

At Mutsko Insurance Services, we offer a complete line of health and life insurance products, including Individual, Group and Family Health, Annuities, Long Term Care Insurance, Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement Plans, Medicare Part D Prescription Coverage, Vision, Dental and Life Insurance. You can reach us at 440-255-5700 or through email at Lmutsko@mutskoinsurance.com.