How to Evaluate a Medicare Advantage Plan to Make Sure It’s the Right Fit

Posted by Pattie Scoma
Estimated Reading Time 1 minute 17 seconds

Choosing a Medicare Advantage plan is an important decision, and it is not uncommon for beneficiaries to realize after enrollment that their plan may not be the best match for their healthcare needs. The good news is that Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment provides an opportunity to reassess your coverage and make changes if necessary.

Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment runs each year from January 1 through March 31. During this time, individuals already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan can switch to a different Medicare Advantage plan or return to Original Medicare with or without a Part D prescription drug plan. This period is designed specifically for fine-tuning your coverage if your original choice is no longer working for you.

One of the first factors to evaluate is your current healthcare usage. Review how often you visit doctors, specialists, or receive treatments. If your plan has a limited provider network, confirm that your preferred doctors, hospitals, and specialists are still in network. Provider networks can change annually, and out-of-network care can be significantly more expensive.

Prescription drug coverage is another key consideration. Even small changes to a plan’s formulary can affect how much you pay for medications. Check whether your prescriptions are still covered, what tier they fall under, and if any new restrictions, such as prior authorizations or quantity limits, have been added.

Costs deserve close attention as well. Look beyond the monthly costs and consider deductibles, copays, coinsurance, and the plan’s annual out-of-pocket maximum. A plan with a low cost may end up costing more overall if you require frequent care.

Finally, think about any changes in your health or lifestyle. New diagnoses, upcoming procedures, or plans to travel or relocate can all impact whether your current plan still fits your needs.

If you have questions or need assistance, please contact one of our licensed insurance agents.