Weighing your Options: How to Choose a Medicare Plan

Sometimes, the more important the choice we need to make, the greater our indecision, especially when it comes to our health care.  Between Original Medicare, various Advantage Plans, or other Medicare health plans, it can sometimes seem difficult to know where to begin when choosing your plan.  By focusing on a few key areas, however, you can compare your options to your medical needs and make a confident, self-assured decision.

 The first thing you may want to think about is what, specifically, your coverage needs are.  If you use prescription medication on a fairly regular basis, or think you may in the future, make sure you sign up for a Medicare drug plan – or that your plan includes drug coverage.  If you have additional needs, like dental or vision, you may want to choose a plan that offers extra benefits. 

 Next, you will want to look at your choices in health providers.  Because most Advantage Plans require you to use certain doctors and hospitals only, it is important to find out if your doctor is on an Advantage provider network or not.  You will also want to consider how important choices in hospitals and doctors are and how convenient you need your care. It’s a good idea to look at network care provider’s hours and locations and whether or not you are confident of the quality of care offered at these sites.

 Finally, consider the costs.  Premiums, coinsurance, copayments, and deductibles all make a difference in your expenses.  Find out how much you will be required to pay in each plan, where there may be extra fees involved, and how you can best afford care that meets your medical needs.

 By considering coverage, providers, and costs, you can reflect on your needs and successfully compare plans.  Most importantly, you will be able to select a plan that offers you sense of security and peace of mind.