Fall refers to shorter days and brighter leaves. It also marks the beginning of open enrollment for American citizens’ health insurance.

Employer-sponsored benefits are confusing. It is worth doing your research and getting expert advice to make sure you get the best possible plan.

Confusion around health insurance continues to be a problem. In fact, nearly 76 percent of American workers stated that they were unsure about certain aspects of their health insurance according to the 2017 Aflac WorksForces Report by Lightspeed GMI for insurance provider Aflac.

Respondents to the survey expressed concern over copays, deductibles, and how to determine if a provider of health care is in-network.

Aflac offers three top tips to maximize your health insurance.

Be prepared. Take the time to research all options before your employer opens enrollment this year for health insurance. Aflac’s consumer survey found that 83% of workers spent less time researching potential benefits and 20% did not research any health insurance plans.

Take care. Get expert help. Aflac found that almost two-thirds (67%) of workers believed that they understood all aspects related to the health insurance plans that they have signed up for.

When asked about copays, deductibles, in-network providers and copays, however, only 24% said they understood everything.

-Be enhanced. To fill gaps in employer-offered insurance plans, consider adding voluntary coverage. According to Aflac, 81 percent of employees feel they need to have voluntary insurance. 90 percent consider voluntary insurance essential for a comprehensive health benefits program.

Examples of voluntary insurance include insurance for health, accident insurance, insurance for critical illnesses, and insurance for hospitalizations. This insurance is not covered by the employer’s insurance. Individuals with injuries or illnesses that keep them from working can also use voluntary insurance to pay for gas, groceries, and rent.

Visit Aflac.comFind out more about the benefits plans available to you and how they can be chosen.