Turning sixty-five is a big milestone, and along with celebrating your birthday, it's time to make some important decisions about your healthcare. We know it can be a bit overwhelming to dive into the world of Medicare, but we're here to help guide you through it. At Sonder Health Plans, we're proud to be Georgians caring for Georgians, and we're committed to helping you understand your Medicare Advantage options.
What is Medicare Advantage?
Medicare Advantage, or Medicare Part C, is a type of Medicare health plan offered by private companies that contract with Medicare. These plans provide all of your Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance) coverage and usually include extra benefits like dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage. Sonder Health also offers unique plans for people living with chronic conditions such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease, as well as unique wellness options such as a $400 monthly grocery card in our Tiers plan.Why Choose a Medicare Advantage Plan?
Choosing a Medicare Advantage plan can offer several benefits that make managing your healthcare easier and more comprehensive:- All-in-One Coverage: Many Medicare Advantage plans bundle hospital, medical, and prescription drug coverage into one plan. This can simplify things for you and reduce the number of separate policies you need to manage.
- Extra Benefits: Plans often include additional benefits not covered by Original Medicare, such as dental, vision, and hearing care. Some plans even offer wellness programs, gym memberships, and transportation to medical appointments.
- Cost Savings: Medicare Advantage plans can be more cost-effective. They often have lower out-of-pocket costs and may include an annual cap on your out-of-pocket expenses, providing you with financial peace of mind.
How to Choose the Right Medicare Advantage Plan: Six Easy Steps
- Selecting the right Medicare Advantage plan is all about finding what fits your unique healthcare needs and lifestyle. Here’s how you can start:
- Think About Your Health Needs: Consider your current health, any chronic conditions, and the healthcare services you use frequently. Make a list of the medications you take and any specialists you visit regularly.
- Compare Plans: Pay attention to details like premiums, copayments, and out-of-pocket maximums.
- Check Provider Networks: Ensure your preferred doctors, hospitals, and pharmacies are included in the plan’s network.
- Review Drug Coverage: If you take prescription medications, make sure the plan covers your drugs. Check the formulary and understand the cost-sharing details.
- Consider Extra Benefits: Look at the additional benefits offered and decide if they are valuable to you. For example, if you need dental or vision care, find a plan that includes these services.
Enrollment Periods
It’s important to know when you can enroll in or change Medicare Advantage plans:- Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): This is the seven-month period that starts three months before your sixty-fifth birthday, includes your birth month, and ends three months after. During this time, you can enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan for the first time.
- Annual Enrollment Period (AEP): From October fifteenth to December seventh each year, you can join, switch, or drop a Medicare Advantage plan. Changes take effect on January first of the following year.
- Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period: From January first to March thirty-first each year, if you’re already in a Medicare Advantage plan, you can switch to another plan or return to Original Medicare.
