Every fall, Medicare recipients have the opportunity to switch plans to better suit their needs. However, very few individuals take advantage of this time to explore their options, with one study finding that only 11 percent of those enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans voluntarily change plans each year. Even if you are satisfied with your current coverage, it’s a good idea to at least take a look at your options to determine whether there is another plan that better addresses your specific needs. Open enrollment begins on October 15 and remains open until December 7, so here’s a few things to consider before this window closes.
Basic Questions to Ask
While it can seem daunting to take the time to investigate the various Medicare plan options, there are few helpful questions to ask as you begin to navigate the process. For instance, are your preferred doctors still participating in your Medicare Advantage plan’s provider network? Are your prescribed medications still on the prescription plan’s formulary list? Could switching to a different plan still provide you with the still coverage, while saving you some money? The Medicare website provides several tools to help you explore your options, so this is a great place to start.
Be Wary of Scams
Unfortunately, many scammers will use this open enrollment period to target the personal and financial information of vulnerable seniors. Do not give out any information to anyone who claims to be selling Medicare-related services or products over the phone, by email, or in person. If you suspect that you’ve been the victim of identity theft or other type of fraud, alert Medicare right away.
Seek Help When You Need It
There are many Medicare options out there, and it’s common to feel overwhelmed by your choices and your eligibility for certain services. Speaking to a knowledgeable elder law attorney is a great way to obtain the guidance you need as you make these important decisions about your wellbeing and your future.
If you need assistance with understanding your Medicare coverage options in the Spokane Valley area, reach out to the dedicated and friendly elder law attorneys at Legacy Law Group by calling (509) 315-8087 today.
