Annual Enrollment Period is Here

AssociatesMD can help remove the stress

The leaves are starting to change. The summer heat is starting to break. You know what that means. Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is here!!

This period is your chance to evaluate your needs and whether your plan still works for you. The Annual Enrollment Period is too often a lost opportunity for people with Medicare. Research shows that only about 10% of individuals use this chance to switch plans. The result is: overspending for coverage you don’t need or use and missing out on benefits.

How AssociatesMD can help you prepare for Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period

Your Personal Healthcare Assistant (PHA) can connect you with a licensed agent who will conduct a needs analysis, giving you the opportunity to make an informed decision- without all of the hassle.

Before scheduling an appointment with your PHA, we recommend:

• Reviewing your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) This is typically mailed in the fall prior to AEP. Your ANOC will highlight all the changes in cost and coverage that are coming to your plan. This may be your first indication that you’ll need to find a new plan during AEP.
• Reviewing your Medicare Summary Notice (MSN) or your Explanation of Benefits (EOB). If you’re enrolled in Original Medicare, you’ll receive a Medicare Summary Notice a few months after you receive any benefits. Medicare Advantage enrollees receive an Explanation of Benefits. Both forms detail the benefits you received, and how much your plan pays for them. These can be great tools to use when comparing prospective plans to your current one.

During your appointment the agent can help you to:

• Review any changes to your health that could have an impact on your benefits.
• Make sure your doctors, specialists and medications are covered.
• Advise you on your best plan options based on your needs, NOW.
• Learn about the Federal and State Programs available for financial assistance you may qualify for.

Is Medicare Advantage Better Than Original Medicare?

Medicare Advantage and Original Medicare offer Part A and Part B, but your health needs and location can affect the benefits you receive from each. Likewise, your costs can vary based on whether you choose a Medicare Advantage plan or Original Medicare. Here’s a look at some of the pros and cons of a Medicare Advantage plan.