Las Vegas Review-Journal (Sunday)

How to choose the right Medicare Advantage plan

Timely tips from Dr. Tony Alamo

- Tony Alamo, MD Chief Medical Director Optum Care Network – Nevada

This time of year, I’m usually asked more than a few questions about Medicare Advantage, how the plans work, and how to choose the right one. That’s completely understand­able. There’s a great deal of informatio­n out there, and a lot of it is confusing. Below, I’ve shared some informatio­n that I hope helps you find the

Medicare Advantage plan that’s just right for you.

– Tony Alamo, MD

Medicare Annual Enrollment

Now is the time to choose a Medicare Advantage plan that gives you access to the care you need. Remember, Medicare Annual Enrollment ends December 7. One of the first things you need to know is that when compared to traditiona­l Medicare, Medicare Advantage could save you up

to 40 percent* on your personal health care costs.

Know your needs

Determinin­g your needs, especially what you’re looking for in a provider, is the first

step in preparing to choose the right Medicare Advantage plan. Optum Care Network – Nevada

offers a wide range of primary and specialty care providers across the valley to make sure you get the care you need, when you need it. This includes access to Southwest Medical. Here in Nevada, the Optum Care Network has more than 5,000 primary care and specialty care providers as well as urgent care centers, hospitals, and other health care facilities.

Consider your medication­s

A number of us take three or more medicines every month, and as you know, the cost can add up. So, when looking at available Medicare Advantage plans, be sure you know which ones

will pay for your specific medication­s.

Get more with Medicare Advantage

The right Medicare Advantage plan covers many services not covered by Traditiona­l Medicare, including:

• Dental

• Vision

• Hearing

• Transporta­tion

• And other programs to help you be healthier

Choose a provider that is senior-focused

Every plan provider can address your health needs, but some are more focused on the needs of seniors than others. Optum Care Network – Nevada offers:

• Primary and specialty care providers across

the valley

• A 24/7 Telephone Advice Nurse Line

• 24/7 Virtual Visits – a video visit from the

comfort of your home

• At-home Visits with Dispatch Health – a

board-certified clinician comes right to your home or workplace

Get help from a licensed agent

Licensed insurance agents can help you with every step in finding a plan. These agents will help you: • Compare Medicare Advantage plans

• See if your doctors are in the network

• See what plans cover the medicines you need • Find plans that include vision, dental, and

other services important to you

Medicare Annual Enrollment

ends December 7.

Optum Care Network – Nevada can connect you

with a licensed insurance agent today.

Speak with a licensed insurance agent to learn more about your Medicare options. Call 702-530-5906 or visit optum.com/aep2023.

Accepting Unitedheal­thcare, Anthem, and now, Humana.

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