Important 2019 Medicare AEP Open enrollment period 10/15 – 12/7/2018
To the many hundreds of clients and friends who depend on our guidance for their Medicare Supplements, Advantage Plans and/or Part D Prescription plans and to those you refer to our office: I want to offer a simple snapshot of the options before you for 2019. I address each of the possible scenarios in hopes that you can identify your current situation and determine what additional steps you wish to take so that you can proactively work with us, to maximize your program value during this open enrollment season as we move into 2019.
Medicare Supplement policyholders
If you like what you have and it is meeting your expectations for coverage and budget, you are probably in the right place as rates adjust for cost of living only and are fairly stable with nominal increases. Your age is locked in at entry age so moving to a different carrier does not typically yield savings. Exception: You wish to learn more about Advantage plans like an HMO or PPO or PFFS or SNP.
Medicare Advantage policyholders
If you like what you have and it is meeting your expectations for coverage and budget you are probably in the right place, but you should review the renewal information from your current carrier to make sure the premium is still affordable and the formulary for the drug component is still covering all medications. If so, than we should stay the course. We will also monitor these programs and if a significantly better value emerges, we will reach out to you via phone call and/or email. Note: A zero cost plan will be offered by Harvard Pilgrim Stride this year. Exception: You are unhappy with your plan or wish to explore a supplement.
Prescription Drug Plans (PDP)
This is an area we encourage all of our supplement clients and anyone with a stand-alone PDP to evaluate yearly as premiums change, formularies change, plan designs change, carriers change, your medications change and carriers come and go each year. It is the most volatile component in your program. If you do nothing you will be automatically re-enrolled if the carrier is remaining in the marketplace but alternatives are worth a look. Exception: You have evaluated the renewal communications from your current carrier, are satisfied your drugs are on the formulary, the carrier has performed to your satisfaction and new premium is acceptable to you.
What Dublin Health will do for you
- Current clients: We will reach out to you by phone and/or email over the next two weeks to invite and answer questions about plan changes either in person at the office or over the phone.
- We will serve you and/or someone you know who desires guidance as an AEP (existing Medicare beneficiary) or IEP (New to Medicare friends you are referring) and SEP (Special election period) beneficiaries going through a life change needing guidance.
- After receiving a signed Scope of Appointment (click the link to complete and sign) we will assist you in learning about and enrolling in any plan changes or new plans you wish to pursue.
We will always relentlessly pursue the best values existing in the current marketplace and be a resource to you in your effort to understand and select the best options based on your needs and financial resources. Contact our office at 603-563-8820 or email us. All of our agents are properly licensed and appointed to handle Medicare Products and look forward to working with you.