Getting the most in a Medicare Advantage Plan
Many plans offer healthand-wellness benefits over and above Original Medicare, including dental, vision, hearing, transportation, over the counter (OTC) drugs, alternative medicine and fitness programs.
Oct. 15 – Dec. 7 is the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) when Medicare beneficiaries decide whether to remain in their current Medicare Advantage Plan, choose another plan or return to what is commonly referred to as Original Medicare or Medicare Fee for Service.
AgeWell New York encourages Medicare beneficiaries to look out for these covered services to get the most out of your plan to enhance your health coverage and access to health-and-wellness services.
Many plans cover screenings and immunizations. These services help you identify and treat health issues early. Identifying risk factors, unhealthy lifestyle habits, getting recommended screenings and vaccinations, and routinely seeing your doctor are all part of ongoing health prevention and management.
Routine dental, vision and hearing visits are vital to maintaining overall health and identifying other issues. Look for preventive and/or preventive and comprehensive and diagnostic dental, routine vision exams, eyewear, routine hearing exams and hearing aids as part of your covered services.
Look for a plan that promotes a healthy lifestyle. Many plans offer a wellness or fitness program at no additional cost and include access to fitness equipment, gym memberships, group exercise classes and more. Alternative therapies are becoming more popular in preventing and treating disease and promoting health. Some plans include covered acupuncture and chiropractic care.
Having a dedicated person to help you navigate all of these services gives you easier access to all your benefits. Some plans have a care navigator or care manager who assists with things such as such as medication management, care planning, routine screenings and preventative services. Call your plan for more information and find out whether these services are available.
Details of these benefits are included in the plan’s Evidence of Coverage, or call your plan to learn more and take advantage. AgeWell New York gives you flexibility in choosing a Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plan that’s right for you. Call today for eligibility and enrollment at 866-586-8044 or www.agewellnewyork.com.