As open enrollment season begins, healthcare advocates are encouraging Maryland residents to review their coverage options before the deadlines pass.
Medicare’s annual open enrollment period, which started on October 15, runs through December 7. During this time, beneficiaries can assess and make changes to their Medicare plans. Marylanders who receive health insurance through employer-sponsored plans are also entering their respective open enrollment seasons.
Dr. Rhonda Randall, chief medical officer and executive vice president of UnitedHealthcare Employer and Individual, stressed the importance of taking a close look at coverage options, especially in light of potential changes to health and financial needs.
“You want to consider if your current benefit plans still meet your health care needs and your budget needs,” Randall advised. “And, has anything changed with your plan? For example, is your doctor still in the plan? Is the medication you take still covered by the plan?”
In addition to Medicare, Marylanders seeking health insurance through the Affordable Care Act can enroll in plans beginning November 1.
Medicare Choices for Maryland Seniors
Maryland seniors have multiple options when it comes to Medicare. They can stick with original Medicare, which includes Part A for hospital insurance and Part B for medical insurance, or they can opt for Medicare Advantage (Part C), which often provides additional benefits such as dental, vision, and hearing coverage. For those requiring prescription drug coverage, plans are available under Medicare Part D.
To assist with navigating these choices, Julia Schreiber, director of the Maryland State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), recommends using the plan finder tool available at Medicare.gov.
“They can enter in their medications,” Schreiber explained. “They can enter in their pharmacies and see what the different plans will cost based on their unique needs.”
The Medicare plan finder tool also features star ratings based on users’ experiences with different plans. These ratings cover various aspects, such as chronic care management, appeal wait times, and overall customer service. This information helps enrollees make more informed decisions about their healthcare options.
Important Changes for 2025
Looking ahead to 2025, Medicare enrollees will see some significant changes, particularly concerning out-of-pocket prescription drug costs. Thanks to provisions in the Inflation Reduction Act, Medicare Part D will implement a cap of $2,000 per year for out-of-pocket prescription drug costs. Additionally, beneficiaries will have the option to spread their drug costs over monthly payments, making it easier for individuals to manage expenses.
For those who need assistance with the Medicare enrollment process, Maryland offers several resources. Schreiber emphasized that SHIP counselors provide unbiased guidance and are not affiliated with any insurance plans.
“If anyone is looking for help from a trained counselor that is also totally unbiased, not associated with any plans, they are welcome to call the State Health Insurance Assistance Program,” she stated. “Our counselors receive extensive training on Medicare.”
Final Reminders for Open Enrollment
As the open enrollment period progresses, Marylanders are encouraged to carefully consider any changes to their healthcare needs. Factors like doctor availability, prescription drug coverage, and the cost of premiums can all impact which plan is best for an individual or family.
With the open enrollment period for Medicare ending on December 7 and the Affordable Care Act enrollment window opening soon, residents are urged to take advantage of tools like Medicare.gov and the guidance available through the State Health Insurance Assistance Program to ensure they are making informed decisions.
