United Medicare Advisors Makes Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period Easy
Use these seven expert tips to ensure you’re prepared for annual enrollment
United Medicare Advisors (UMA), a leading, independent Medicare Supplement insurance comparison shopping agency, is offering Medicare-eligible adults a simple guide to ensure they enter Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) with confidence.
Analysis of thousands of conversations between UMA’s licensed agents and Medicare-eligible adults highlights a growing concern about the impending changes to Medicare as a result of MACRA (Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act of 2015) going into effect. In fact, from July through September 2109 questions about MACRA and Plans F and C were mentioned over 2,500 times.
“For adults on a fixed budget, changes to financial commitments can be a source of worry and frustration,” said Lauren Guinta, VP of United Medicare Advisors. “When someone calls us with questions regarding MACRA, we emphasize that the changes may not affect them, and we are here to educate consumers on their choices.”
Along with adjusting physician payments, adults becoming Medicare eligible on or after January 1, 2020 will not be able to purchase Medicare Supplement Plan F or C. However, any consumer who turned 65 prior to 2020, including consumers enrolling in 2019, can keep their current plan or apply for a new Plan F or C policy at any time.
While these changes to Medicare may be confusing, United Medicare Advisors reminds adults across the country that AEP shouldn’t be a complicated process. UMA’s sophisticated digital platform, complimentary resources, and expert advice has helped over 300,000 adults save an average of $634 a year on their premiums when switching Medicare Supplement plans.
To help adults prepare for Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period, UMA developed a short list of questions to help Medicare-eligible adults feel confident in their health care decisions, through AEP and beyond.
7 important questions to help you navigate AEP:
- Does AEP apply to me?
If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan and/or Part D Prescription Plan, this is the time of year you can switch to a new plan or apply for a Medicare Supplement plan.
- Does my coverage still meet my needs?
Your health care and budget needs can change. Make sure your plan still aligns with all your needs.
- Do I understand my options?
UMA’s in-depth, industry expertise ensures you'll find a great plan that meets your needs and fits your budget.
- How much can I afford?
Our licensed agents will work with you on your budget and determine the best plan for your needs, including discussing the additional costs to just your premium.
- Are all my needs covered?
Have you considered dental and vision coverage? Consider a new plan to fill in the gaps.
- Do I plan on traveling during retirement?
Be aware, some coverage options such as Medicare Advantage plans have networks and restrict your benefits while traveling. Medicare Supplement plans all provide coverage throughout the U.S. at any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare. Additionally, some Medicare Supplement plans provide coverage when traveling abroad.
- Have I compared costs?
UMA can help you compare costs across dozens of carriers available in your area.
According to Guinta, “Our mission is to empower confident consumer health care decisions through education and a truly consultative relationship. UMA agents are united in your Medicare Journey.”
