Three important tips for finding the right Medicare Advantage Plan
Have you wondered how to choose the Medicare Advantage plan that best fits your health needs and budget? If you are a Medicare user, you are part of the approximately 31 million people in the United States enrolled in Medicare Advantage, representing nearly 50% of all Medicare beneficiaries in the country. With the enrollment period open until December 7, this is the ideal time to select a plan that best fits your needs.
Below, you’ll find 3 essential tips for choosing your ideal Medicare Advantage Plan:
1. Out-of-Pocket Costs: Evaluate the costs associated with the plan you choose to avoid unexpected expenses. With Medicare Advantage, your covered medical costs, including doctor visits and necessary emergency care, will never go above a maximum out-of-pocket amount, which you know beforehand. This level of predictability can make a significant difference, particularly if you require regular medical care.
2. Plan Changes: It’s always important to review the information you receive from your insurance carrier to ensure you get coverage that meets your needs. Plan benefits and costs can change year to year, so it’s important to stay informed about differences. This year, a significant adjustment to federal Medicare policy has reduced the out-of-pocket maximum for prescription drugs, which is especially beneficial for those who depend on costly medication to manage ongoing healthcare needs. This change applies for any Medicare beneficiary with Part D coverage, whether it is part of a Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug plan or a stand-alone Prescription Drug Plan that is supplementing Original Medicare.
3. Networks: Check to see if your preferred doctors are part of the plan’s network and understand the in-network and out-of-network costs to ensure the plan fits your budget and lifestyle. With Medicare Advantage plans, the network rules vary depending on the type of plan. Some have limited networks and require referrals to see a specialist, while others allow you to see out-of-network providers with no referrals for specialists.
You have until Dec. 7 to choose a plan for 2025. Take the time to assess your options and choose the right plan for you or a loved one. Explore your Medicare coverage options through Medicare.gov . You can find information on Humana plans at Humana.com/MedicareFAQ or reach out to a licensed sales agent.
