What is Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period?
Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period is Oct. 15 to Dec. 7. During this time, Medicare beneficiaries can make changes to their coverage for the next calendar year.
As we head into Annual Enrollment, here are some helpful tips to keep in mind so you can be prepared. Our team is here to support you if you need to make any changes to your coverage.
Review your Annual Notice of Change.
Your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) is a document (either physical or digital) that outlines any changes to your Medicare Advantage or Prescription Drug plan for the upcoming year. Your health insurance company is required to provide your ANOC no later than Sept. 30.
Be careful not to dismiss your ANOC as just another insurance document. It’s important to review and understand the information in this document and consider how it may affect you.
As you read your ANOC, look for potential changes to the following:
• Monthly premium
• Maximum out-of-pocket expenses
• Provider visit copays
• Inpatient hospital coverage
• Prescription drug deductibles and/or copays
• Plan benefits
If you have questions about your plan or your ANOC, we’re here to help!
Be vigilant and protect yourself from potential scams.
During Annual Enrollment, Medicare scam activity spikes. Con artists know that individuals may be curious about their health care coverage during this period, so be extra cautious.
Only share private information (such as your Social Security number, bank account details, or your Medicare ID number) with authorized individuals. Remember that reputable agents, including those from RetireMed, will never show up at your door.
Remember, you have options.
If you’re currently enrolled in a Medicare Supplement plan, you may notice that your premium increases every year. But you have other options if you’d like to see what else is available to you.
A popular option is Medicare Advantage, also called Medicare Part C. Medicare Advantage plans provide additional benefits not offered by Supplement plans. They also have an out-of-pocket maximum that caps the total annual amount you will pay for health care expenses. Benefits vary by plan, but many Medicare Advantage plans cover:
• Dental
• Vision
• Hearing
• Prescription drugs
• Over-the-counter allowances
• Fitness memberships
If you’re curious about the benefits offered by plans in your area, our advisors will help you compare your options.
We support you during Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period and beyond.
During Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period, you can make changes to your Medicare plan for the next calendar year. This could mean reviewing your current plan and possibly exploring other coverage options, such as Medicare Advantage.
If you have questions or want to compare your options, contact us at 877.222.1942 or client@retiremed.com.
Not a RetireMed client? Contact us at 937.915.3563 or advice@retiremed.com to learn more about Medicare and how we can customize your coverage options.
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