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We’re coming up on that time of year again. Annual Election Period is from Oct. 15 until Dec. 7.
It’s always a good idea to check how your benefits will be affected in the new year. You may find that a plan that worked for you this year may not be the best option next year.
One important change that you should consider during AEP is whether you’ll still be able to see your preferred doctors for care. Your insurance carrier may be dropping primary care physicians and specialists effective January 1.
What could affect a change in doctors that I have?
Healthcare plans are measured by a star rating system.
In order to achieve a higher star rating, insurance companies and their network doctors must abide by strict guidelines, ensuring that you get the best quality of care possible.
Several factors can affect ratings. For example, under certain plans, your doctor may be required to spend more time talking to you during an appointment.
If they’re not spending enough one-on-one time with you, something could be missed, causing you to need costlier treatments or hospital stays that could have been avoided.
The more you benefit from the care provided by the plan and doctor, the more likely the plan may receive a higher star rating.
Providers will be sending out notification letters about the network changes starting in January, well after AEP ends.
Be sure to contact your doctors now to ask, “Will you be accepting my Medicare plan next year?”
If someone you love may be affected by these changes, let them know in time for AEP. At Trusted Senior Specialists we can guide you to find the right carrier.
