By Tanya Hamel
October is here. Everywhere we look, there are signs of maturity. The preparation of hibernation. Getting ready and planning for those cold months of winter ahead.
We see it in our plant life; the leaves are changing colors and reminding us of that favorite old orange sweater in the back of the closet. The smell of autumn and that chill in the air have moved in. School is back in full swing, cheering for our home town football team, warm days and bundling up in the evenings. We are busy thinking ahead. Putting the garden to bed, wrapping up the season with the last of those outdoor festivals … Octoberfest, anyone?
This time of the year is indeed a time for reflection and preparation. In the world of Medicare, we call this time of year the Annual Enrollment Period (or AEP). A time to be considering options and a possible change.
AEP happens every year from October 15 to December 7. During this period each fall, a person on Medicare can shop around and change their Medicare plan, if they choose to do so. It is comforting to know that AEP comes around every year, so you are never locked into one plan forever. Besides, there is no “one size fits all” when it comes to one’s health.
Our health is an ever-changing element of our lives. Your unique situation may indicate the need for a change in your health coverage. Did your current plan change, and does it still suit your needs? Have your medication needs changed? Taking new prescriptions or treatments for a chronic illness? Did your primary care provider retire or relocate, or are you seeing new specialists? Are you visiting hospitals or clinics more often?
Ask yourself these questions. Take the time to really examine your “needs” and then determine your “wants.” Would you like to start going to the gym more often or start traveling more?
There’s a lot to consider, and we know it can be confusing. So how can you best prepare yourself for the upcoming AEP? Start by making a list of your current prescriptions. Include dosage, frequency and the costs for each. Then make a list of your current providers, clinics and hospitals you use. Include how often you see each and why you see them.
Now you can start shopping for plans. Medicare.gov is a great place to start. By entering your ZIP code, you will be able to see which plans are available to you. It’s easy to navigate and packed with information. You can visit your local Agency on Aging. They offer impartial counseling services for people who are eligible for Medicare. Find one near you at dshs.wa.gov/altsa/resources. Finally, HealthAlliance.org/Medicare gives a nice overview of the plans we offer in your county.
Once you have found a plan to consider, be sure to check out the provider directory and the drug formulary to confirm if your prescriptions are available and your providers are in the network. If you find a plan you like, you can securely sign up right there online.
Now, if you prefer to sit down with someone face to face, contact a local Medicare broker; they are very knowledgeable in all of your options. Health Alliance also has local offices in Wenatchee and Yakima where you can sit down with one of our wonderful representatives. We are happy to help you sign up or just answer what questions you may have. Give us a call at 1-877-561-1463.
Now you are prepared to choose wisely. Change can be scary, but sometimes it’s necessary. Remember, we are always here to help guide you through the Medicare seasons.
Tanya Hamel is the community liaison for Health Alliance Northwest, serving Chelan, Douglas, Grant and Okanogan counties in Washington. Tanya was born and raised in the Pacific Northwest. She loves the outdoors and spending time with her family and their two dogs. Like this article? Feel free to respond to Outreach@HealthAlliance.org. Thanks for reading!