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Medicareful
How to Prepare for Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period
Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is right around the corner, so it's time to get ready. You should explore your options each year, since it can ensure that your Medicare plan fits your needs and saves you money. Preparing for AEP allows your search to be as stress-free as possible.
Evaluate Your Plan Usage and Upcoming Medical Needs
Before you begin looking for your next plan, you should evaluate the one you already have.
Looking Back
First, look back at the last year for how your plan covered your medical needs. Did it cover the services you needed and used the most or were there gaps you're hoping to fill? Did you use out-of-network services or spend more out of pocket than you planned? Asking these questions and more will help answer whether your plan covered your needs last year?
Looking Ahead
Next, think about how your plan will cover you in the future. Getting an annual checkup is a good start. There, you can ask about any developing medical conditions or concerns to plan for. Will you need joint replacement surgery next year or a new medication that may not be covered by your current plan or is very expensive? These are a few of the medical circumstances that may make it worth changing your plan.
Explore Your Enrollment Options
After evaluating your current plan, you should see what's available in your area. Using a tool like Medicareful’s Plan Finder can show you Medicare Advantage plans, Medicare Part D plans, and Medicare Supplements near you and compare your favorites. Medicare Star Ratings can tell you about how well a plan performs at a glance. However, your options for the upcoming plan year will only be available when they're announced around the start of AEP for the current year.
Talk with an Agent
If you’re struggling to choose a plan, we suggest connecting with a licensed insurance agent. Finding a great insurance agent isn’t hard, and, you don’t need to pay a dime for an agent to help you choose a plan. You can easily get in touch with a licensed sales agent using the Medicareful Plan Finder or in your neighborhood, either by searching online or at a specific insurance company.
If you’re unprepared for Medicare’s AEP, you may find yourself getting stressed out or giving up your search and keeping your current plan, even if it’s not a great match. By taking a little time before October 15 to evaluate, explore, and talk with an expert, you can be better prepared for the start of AEP and more likely to make a good choice for you and your situation.
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For more information on the Medicareful’s Plan Finder, call (412) 910-1588 or visit medicareful.com.
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