How to Get Ready for Medicare’s Open Enrollment

Did you know Medicare’s open enrollment period is from October 15, 2019, to December 7, 2019? During this period, you’ll want to evaluate your current health plan to make sure you’re comfortable with any adjustments that start in 2020. If you are already covered by Medicare, here are three important steps you can take to ensure you are ready to continue your health care coverage without any delays.

3 Ways to Prepare for Medicare’s Open Enrollment Period

1. Set up calendar reminders

Again, Medicare’s 2020 open enrollment period is from October 15, 2019, to December 7, 2019. Coverage will then start on January 1, 2020. 

2. Don’t be afraid to get help

There are a variety of free resources in Portland, Oregon that answer questions or offer assistance without hesitation. Willamette Valley Benefits runs education seminars and meets with individuals during open enrollment who need help reviewing their Medicare benefits should you need it. The National Council on Aging (NCOA) is another free and trusted online resource that aids aging adults by providing complimentary access to a licensed benefits advisor along with other helpful support tools.

3. Review your plan annually 

It’s always important to stay up to date on any coverage changes that may start in 2020. It’s also smart to research new insurance plans that may improve your quality of care in Portland or elsewhere. Read up on the following aspects of your policy to make sure you’re getting the benefits you’ll need:

•     Medicare Coverage
•     New Benefits
•     Policy
•     Drug Coverage Costs

You should also review your benefits alongside a trusted licensed agent like Willamette Valley Benefits to make sure you’re getting the insurance coverage you need. Their resources will guide you through any updates concerning changes in doctors, hospitals, premiums, copays, deductibles and more that could prevent issues with your plan before any visit. It’s also always important to talk with your health care provider to make sure your insurance is accepted by your Portland clinic or the hospital you visit regularly.

If you’re new to Medicare and eligible, sign up

Remember, you have three months prior to your birthday month, your actual birthday month,  and three months after your birthday to sign up for Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance). That means you have seven months total to sign up for insurance during Medicare’s Initial Enrollment Period. If you are covered by an insurance plan through your employer, please check with a trusted licensed agent like Willamette Valley Benefits before signing up.

NWPC is here to answer your questions about Medicare

Northwest Primary Care offers our Portland patients a number of resources to help them maneuver Medicare’s annual enrollment period every year. If you would like to know if we accept your insurance, feel free to contact us or call 503.659.4988 to schedule an appointment.

View NWPC’s Medicare services and accepted Medicare insurance plans