INSURANCE

Q:How can I make the most of my Medicare Advantage plan this fall?

A:Fall is a good time to go over where you stand with your Medicare Advantage plan benefits. There are some benefits you will be missing out on if you do not use them before the end of the year. Make sure you have taken full advantage of the following:

Dental Benefits

Maxing out benefits is especially important because your coverage does not carry over to the following year if you do not use it. For example, if you are allowed two cleanings a year and don’t get the second one done by the end of December, you will not be reimbursed for three cleanings the following year. Problems often arise when there is a rush of people trying to use their benefits before the end of the year and your dentist does not have enough openings. You can avoid this problem if you schedule your appointment now.

Vision, Hearing & Podiatry Benefits

Take advantage of your plan’s coverage for routine vision, hearing and podiatry visits. If you have coverage, contact your insurance carrier for a list of their in-network providers and set up appointments now.

Immunizations & Tests

Fall is a good time to schedule your annual Medicare wellness visit. Your physician will update any immunizations and order any tests and screenings you may need.

Enhanced Benefits

If your plan provides enhanced benefits, have you used them? Or, did you forget to use your plan’s allowances for over the counter non-prescription drugs, coverage for alternative medicine, free fitness club memberships, smoking cessation programs, transportation to and from medical appointments and more.

Important Information

Before October 1, everyone who has a Medicare Advantage plan or Prescription Part D coverage will receive an Annual Notice of Change from their current carrier. It details all changes your plan will make for 2020. Please take a close look at this information and evaluate your coverage. If you are not satisfied with your plan’s coverage for 2020, you will have an opportunity to change plans during Medicare’s Open Enrollment Period beginning October 15 and running through December 7. Contact me with your questions on health insurance, including Medicare Advantage Plans, Medicare Supplements or plans that provide enhanced benefits. You can call me at 440-255-5700 or email me at Lmutsko@mutskoinsurance.com. We will set up an appointment to discuss your insurance needs

Laura Mutsko Mutsko Insurance Services, LLC

6982 Spinach Drive, Mentor, OH 44060 440-255-5700 www.mutskoinsurance.com