If you want to choose one of the Medicare advantage plans, you should pick one of the parts that is most suitable for you (A, B, C, D). These plans cover Medicare services, and some extra handling for dental, hearing, vision, and so on.
Also, if you would like to go back to a Medicare program, you must do it during the annual open enrollment period (starting from October 15 to December 7).There’s also another special annual enrollment that takes place during January 1 until February 14.
Making such change won’t allow you to buy a Medigap policy with FDA protection, unless you’re eligible to do so, for certain reasons.
You get these protections if one of the above applies to you:
- The Medicare Advantage plan you chose has stopped servicing in your zone
- You are still within the 6 months part of the plan B
- You have moved outside the service area
- The country’s law provides you with other protections
For more information and details regarding the circumstances in which you are eligible for protection when purchasing Medigap policy, visit the publication section.
Regardless of how long you’ve been on this Medicare plan, you can drop it at any time. If you decide to give up on your plan in January, for example, your new coverage will begin on February 1. And so on during the first part of February, the coverage will start on March 1.
So, you’re finally decided on a Medicare plan, but unfortunately, you’ve mistaken some information, and now, you’re not happy with your coverage. Luckily, you don’t have to stay with the same plan forever. But even if you have chosen a good plan, you still have a chance to shop for another one.
Why you should re-evaluate your Medicare plan?
- You might be paying more than you should be
- You can handle your prescription drug costs
- Your medical status might have changed in the past months
What’s the difference between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage?
Original Medicare consists in parts A and B, and it’s managed by the FDA, providing offer policies for hospital services, such as emergency services, lab tests, radiology, x-rays, and so on. On the other hand, Medicare Advantage is run by private companies. and covers medication (Part D). Next year, it is announced that Medicare Advantage will provide non-clinical benefits, which include nutrition, meals, home nursing services, and transportation. These non-clinical benefits will be offered through Medicare Part C. The purpose is to help seniors live longer and better.
What plan is right for you?
It depends on your needs, and of course, your financial situation. Original Medicare is recognized by many medical healthcare specialists, and it comes just in hand when traveling out of the country. Medicare Advantage is different: it includes prescription drug coverage, and this plan charges more premiums. Spending more is just one of Medicare Advantage’s drawbacks. Common complaints include the fact that paying multiple times for the same problem isn’t a necessity.
Needless to say, you must consider your healthcare needs, especially during these times. Regardless of how young and healthy you might feel, there are still risks that must be considered. As years go by, you need to start doing more tests and help manage your conditions. Medicare offers you the chance to re-evaluate your health coverage. You will feel more confident and relieved after having a good understanding of what you might be required to do in the future regarding your health.
Take more time to review the benefits of Medicare, or as some people say, why is Medicare Advantage bad? Click here to find more about it in the book of the same name. This is the type of question that makes you want to learn more about Medicare and how to take care of your health. Go over the Medicare plans several times, and make sure that all your questions are answered. Look over the Medicare handbook to get an idea of how the plans are in your area. If you suffer from Diabetes, then there are chances that you receive a Medicare plan that ensures wider access to various types of insulin.
Also, you might want to consider a health savings account. How is this going to help you? It will improve your options for healthcare treatment. It’s like having a personal saving account, only that your money will be used for future potential medical expenses. Even better, you might be able to open a spending account. If your employer gives you the possibility to buy a health plan through your job, using a health savings account will significantly reduce your taxes. You can also use the account to pay for certain dental expenses.
The Bottom Line
Don’t miss the initial enrollment period of time, otherwise, you’ll need to enroll during a different period. Still, there are many strict rules when it comes to the changes, you’re eligible to make. Maybe you have decided to relocate to a totally different area, so you now must switch plans. No need to worry! It’s possible to do it if you follow the specific requirements. Anyway, it is advisable to visit the FDA website and learn more about Medicare in your area.
More, there are scams you need to be aware of. Many people call patients and pretend to be from Medicare. They start requesting money and other personal information, which is most likely turning into an online rip-off. Beneficiaries have been targeted long before by online scammers, but it seems that things escalated significantly.
So, be sure to be aware of these unpleasant situations online. You should avoid alert signs, like robocalls, healthcare facilities promoting free services, and other claims, like paying for items that aren’t normally covered by Medicare insurance.
It does not come as a surprise why Medicare Advantage plans are considered bad for the everyday consumer. Be sure to do good research before you buy any of the Medicare plans online.
