Things to Know about The Medicare Fall Open Enrollment Period

The Medicare Fall Open Enrollment Period, also known as the Annual Election Period (AEP), is an important time for Medicare beneficiaries to review and make changes to their Medicare coverage. Here are some key things to know about this enrollment period:

• You can Join a new Medicare Advantage Plan or stand-alone prescription drug plan (Part D) plan
• Switch between Original Medicare with or without a Part D plan and Medicare Advantage
• Fall Open Enrollment occurs each year from October 15 through December 7.
• Any modifications you make during the Fall Open Enrollment period go into effect on January 1.
• Typically, the only opportunity to select a new Medicare Advantage or Part D plan is during the fall open enrollment period.
• You can switch to Medicare Advantage even if you currently have Original Medicare.
• You need to also enroll in a Part D plan to receive prescription coverage.
• Join, drop, or switch a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan.
• You might be eligible to get a Medigap policy to assist with your Original Medicare expenses.
• There are restrictions on who can purchase a Medigap and when you can do it.
• You should get an Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) and/or Evidence of Coverage (EOC) from your plan if you have a Medicare Advantage Plan or a Part D plan.
• Examine these notices to see if the fees, advantages, or rules of the plan have changed for the upcoming year.
• Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan or vice versa.
• If you find the Medicare enrollment process confusing or need assistance, you can contact your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) or seek advice from a licensed Medicare insurance agent or broker.
• Examine your current Medicare prescription medication and health coverage. During Fall Open Enrollment, you can make adjustments if you are unhappy with your coverage for the coming year.

MedHelpCenter.us recommends that you call the Senior Health Insurance Agency at 813-592-8568 for further explanation on Medicare Advantage.