Did you renew your Medicare Advantage plan only to find that its coverage is not affordable, or switch plans and discover that you’re paying more than you’re able to? Don’t worry. Medicare has an enrollment period that allows you to make the coverage changes you need.
The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period runs from January 1 to March 31 every year. If you are currently enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you can take advantage of this enrollment period to make changes to your coverage. That can mean switching to a different Medicare Advantage plan or returning to Original Medicare and adding a Medicare Part D plan if you need to maintain the same level of coverage.
Switch Medicare Advantage Plans
During Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment, you can switch from one Medicare Advantage plan to another. You can sign up for any plan that provides coverage to your area. A local independent insurance agent can help you compare and analyze the available plans to find one that is a better fit for you.
When comparing Medicare Advantage plans, it is important to focus not only on cost but on the coverage you will be receiving. Beyond that is the quality of customer service you can expect from the insurance company. If you want insight into the company’s reputation, you can view each plan’s Medicare star rating. Each plan is rated in different categories and has an overall rating for easy comparison.
Return to Original Medicare
If you find out that Medicare Advantage is not a good fit for you, it’s not a problem. You can use the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period to drop your Medicare Advantage plan and return to Original Medicare. When you make that change, you will be able to see any health care provider that accepts Medicare. If you need to find supplemental coverage for dental, vision, or hearing care, our team can match you with the right provider.
Medicare Part D
If you had prescription drug coverage through your Medicare Advantage plan and chose to drop your Medicare Advantage plan and return to Original Medicare, you can add a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan during the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period. These plans will have equivalent coverage, but you will want to make sure you select a plan that covers the prescription drugs you are currently taking.
Would you like assistance navigating the change in coverage? My Healthcare Direct has a team of experts ready to advise you and help you maximize your coverage. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.