- ORIGINAL NEWS
Here’s how to reduce your health-care costs during Medicare Advantage open enrollment
- SUMMARY
For retirees enrolled in Medicare Advantage, there’s a limited-time opportunity until March 31st to review and adjust their coverage.
Medicare Advantage is offered by private companies that provide health insurance through Medicare.
You can switch to another Medicare Advantage plan or opt out and transition back to original Medicare, which includes both Part A and B hospitalization and outpatient care.
One reason to consider switching is cost.
Original Medicare may require higher savings for retirement health care costs compared to Medicare Advantage.
However, Medicare Advantage plans often have limited networks and restrictions on certain medications or services.
To determine if Medicare Advantage is right for you, consider your health status.
If you anticipate significant medical needs, original Medicare with a Medicare supplement might be better.
If you’re generally healthy, Medicare Advantage could offer cost savings.
Before making any changes, visit your local State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) or check Medicare.gov or call Medicare’s 800 number to compare plans and make an informed decision.
It’s crucial to start the process soon due to potential enrollment time delays.
- NEWS SENTIMENT CHECK
- Overall sentiment:
neutral
Positive
“If you’re healthy, you could save money, then this is probably the right option with Medicare Advantage.”
“Medicare Advantage plans have largely been put in place because of baby boomers, who have become used to managed care plans in their working years.”
Negative
“Medicare open enrollment periods can be an opportunity to identify potential ways to save.”
“There are potential drawbacks to Medicare Advantage, the research notes, particularly because those plans tend to have limited networks or require approval before covering certain medications or services.”
“Retirees may be tempted to go with Medicare Advantage once they see the lower premiums, particularly if they live in an area with a strong network.”