Medicare Open Enrollment: Oct. 15 - Dec. 7, 2020
By Ailene Gerhardt, MA, BCPA, Founder, Beacon Patient Solutions LLC
Any change you make during Fall Open Enrollment will take effect January 1, 2021
The Annual Election Period for Medicare (also known as Medicare Open Enrollment) has arrived. It’s the time Medicare health and drug plans can make changes to cost, coverage, and which providers and pharmacies are in their network. October 15 to December 7 is when all people with Medicare can change their Medicare health plans and prescription drug coverage for the following year to better meet their needs.
Useful Resources for learning more:
Look at the eHandbook
Call 1-800-MEDICARE during Open Enrollment (10/15-12/7/2020).
Things to Consider When Choosing Medicare Part D and Medicare Advantage Plans
Do your homework:
Make sure to review any correspondence such as “Evidence of Coverage” (EOC) and “Annual Notice of Change” (ANOC) from your health plan or prescription coverage about changes for 2021.
Consider all costs involved with Medicare Advantage plans, not just monthly premiums
Think ahead to any major health procedures you expect to have next year
Learn what’s new for 2021:
reduced out of pocket costs for Insulin coverage
New offerings in some Medicare Advantage Plans: coverage for telehealth visits; coverage for acupuncture for chronic lower back pain; coverage for non-medical services that impact beneficiaries' health
Seek out Help and Advice:
SHINE: Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Everyone: provides FREE unbiased health insurance counseling information and assistance to Massachusetts residents with Medicare, their caregivers and those approaching Medicare eligibility. To find a local counselor in a city or town near you click here.
Do you need assistance in a state other than Massachusetts? Visit the National Program’s website: State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs)Useful Articles about Medicare Open Enrollment Available:
CMS.gov, Kaiser Family Foundation, AARP’s Open Enrollment Information Page, Next Avenue’s How to Make Smart Medicare Open Enrollment Choices in 2020, USA Today, Tips for Choosing Prescription Drug Coverage (Part D), Verywell Health, NerdWallet
There are a lot of decisions we make every day. Making informed decisions about our current and future medical care and coverage is an important tool that should not be overlooked.
During this uncertain time is it more important than ever that we are prepared. Contact me to help you!
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Connect With Us: When the complexity of your healthcare situation is too challenging to navigate on your own working with an independent board certified patient advocate can help cut through the “red tape” and reduce complications at an emotional time. Contact Ailene to learn more about the value of working with a private patient advocate.