Medicare Open Enrollment: What You Need to Know
It is important for Medicare beneficiaries to understand their coverage options and benefits. Medicare Open Enrollment runs October 15- December 7. Medicare beneficiaries have a chance to make changes to their existing plans and switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you make decisions regarding your health care:
- Medicare covers preventative care whether you are in Original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage plan.
- A Medicare Supplement Policy (Medigap) is private insurance that helps pay for health care costs that Original Medicare doesn’t cover, such as copayments, coinsurance and deductibles.
- Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C) are offered by private companies whom Medicare pays to cover hospital (Part A) and medical (Part B) benefits.
If you’re new to Medicare our Senior Health counselors can explain how it works, what is covered and what costs you are responsible for paying. SHIIP offers free help with Medicare and other health insurance. If you have Medicare questions, call us at 1-800-259-5300.
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Avoiding Insurance Scams
Fake insurance companies take advantage of consumers by collecting money for premiums on bogus policies with no intention of paying claims. Scammers may offer policies at costs significantly lower than competitors’ prices. Always find out if the seller represents a legitimate, licensed insurer before purchasing a policy.
Consumers can also be guilty of insurance fraud. The most common forms of policyholder fraud are with auto insurance and workers’ compensation. Fraud is a criminal act leading to higher rates for all consumers. Deliberately staging an accident, exaggerating a legitimate claim or knowingly providing false information on an application are all examples of insurance fraud. Here are a few tips to help you avoid becoming a victim of insurance fraud.
- Do not buy the first policy you find. Shop around and compare prices.
- Purchase a policy from an authorized company or agent. You can verify their information by searching for the company or agent on the LDI’s website.
- Always pay premiums by check or money order.
Click here for more tips on preventing insurance fraud.
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Safe Driving Tips
From running errands to traveling to work, driving is a common daily activity for many. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), traffic fatilites increased by six percent from 2015 to 2016. There are a few steps you can take to ensure you arrive at your destination safely.
Pay attention to the road. Distracted driving is dangerous and the cause of frequent, costly and often deadly accidents. Limit your distractions and never use electronic devices to text or surf the web while driving.
Maintain speed limits. Obey all speed limits and watch out for hazardous road conditions.
Buckle up. Seat belts use is one of the most effective ways to save lives to reduce injuries after a crash.
Map out your route. Taking your eyes off the road to program or look at a map can be a major distraction.
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