The Medicare open enrollment period begins on November 15th, most seniors are aware of this. Most seniors are aware that they have until December 31st to change their benefit option.
Seniors and their loved ones should review their Medicare options in detail at this time. Like any year, this year’s reimbursement levels could change and out-of pocket costs may increase. Due to the economic downturn, seniors may find their retirement income has decreased. Others on fixed incomes might need to adjust their benefit levels.
Amir Mostafaie, eHealthMedicare.com, has six tips for seniors to get the best out of Medicare coverage in 2010.
1. Know your changing healthcare needs. If you have a chronic condition such as diabetes or heart disease, ensure that your 2010 coverage is up-to-date by visiting your specialist or primary care physician. Make sure your plan covers elective surgery if you need it in 2010.
2. Check to see if your doctor is included in the plan. Private sector Medicare plans have a tendency to change the contracted networks of hospitals and doctors. You should confirm that the plan you are on will be accepted by your primary care doctor and other specialists. If you choose traditional Medicare, which allows for you to visit any doctor and hospital that accepts Medicare as well, it is still a good idea verify that your doctors participate in Medicare.
3. Different family members may require different plans. Your spouse and you may have the same plan in 2009; however, one of your needs may change in 2010. You should review your plan options and find the right insurance to meet your needs.
4. Prescription drug coverage
In 2010, medications
Talk to your doctor about these issues first. To ensure you have the right drugs, check your Part D coverage. It covers generic and prescription medications. If you need assistance with the calculation, eHealthMedicare.com offers a handy ‘Doughnut Hole Calculator. This calculator allows you to confirm coverage and search for generic-equivalent medications.
5. Look out for premium and deductible increases: Both traditional Medicare (Parts A & B) as well as private-sector plans in the Medicare Advantage program (Part C) and Prescription Drug (Part D) program are likely to have changes in 2010. These changes may lead to savings or increased cost depending on which coverage you choose.
6. If you have any questions, seek help. Medicare changes are common every year. You can review all options and select a new one.
Plan can be confusing for both consumers and those trying to help them. You can get help at
The government’s website (www.Medicare.gov) as well as volunteer organizations, private-sector plans and other resources like the AARP (American
Association of Retired People) Site at www.aarp.orgThe National Council on Aging (NCOA), site at www.ncoa.orgThe Medicare Rights Center site is at www.medicarerights.org. You can also look at the State Health Insurance Plans, (SHIPs), that are part of a federal network consisting of State Health Insurance Assistance Programs in all 50 states.
Readers can also attempt www.eHealthMedicare.comThe website is user-friendly and easy to use than the more complicated online resources offered by government agencies or advocacy groups.
