IT IS OPEN SEASON FOR MEDICARE -by Dianna Tafazoli
As the year nears its end there are so many things to do to ensure our readiness for the coming year. We need to make a list and check it twice to find out if we are covered or not of if we simply need to make a few changes to take care of our health needs. We don’t make a pot of stew and leave it sitting on the oven for days without it going bad. By the same token we shouldn’t choose a health care plan then set it aside and never go back to see if it is taking care of our changing health care needs. Needs yesterday may not be needs of today or even tomorrow.
Every year the Center for Medicare provides an opportunity for Medicare recipients to examine and evaluate their current policies to determine if the level of coverage is suitable for their health care needs. The period of open enrollment runs from October 15, 2015 through December 7, 2015. It is worth the effort to take the time to compare the many Medicare plans on the market from original Medicare to Medicare Advantage.
Every state does not offer Medicare Advantage plans that in most cases uniquely combine Parts A, B, C & D covering everything from doctors’ visits, to hospital stays, to prescription drugs. You don’t need a Medicare Supplement generally when you have a Medicare Advantage Plan. Some other plans may or may not have a prescription drug component (Part D) which may require you to find a supplement for the additional coverage needed. Remember Federal employees when Medicare eligible don’t need to ever purchase a supplement if they have remembered to always keep their FEHB (Federal Employees Health Benefit) plan. Medicare and FEHB provide enough coverage to take care of your health care needs as you prepare to enjoy your life in retirement.
Always read any brochures and all other information provided by your health care carrier so that you can stay on top of the changes taking place in your policy and if your carrier will continue to provide services in your state or locality.
P. S. Always Remember to Share What You Know.
Dianna Tafazoli
