The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period between every year when Medicare beneficiaries can make changes to their Medicare coverage. This includes enrolling in Medicare for the first time, switching from one Medicare plan to another, or disenrolling from Medicare completely.
Two enrollment periods for Medicare Advantage Plans:
AEP – Annual Enrollment Period
This is the time of year you can change your plan for the following year’s benefits. The AEP enrollment dates are Oct 15th – Dec 7th of every year.
It’s important to note that changes made during the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) will take effect in January. Beneficiaries who don’t make any changes during this time will be automatically re-enrolled in their current Medicare plan.
For most people, the Medicare Open Enrollment Period is the only time of year when they can change their Medicare coverage. However, there are a few exceptions. For example, newly eligible for Medicare due to age or disability can enroll anytime.
Additionally, people with a Medigap policy can switch to another policy at any time, regardless of the Medicare Open Enrollment Period. People with a Medicare Advantage Plan can disenroll and return to their Original Medicare at any time during the year.
OEP – Open Enrollment Period
As a Medicare Advantage Plan holder, you have the opportunity to switch plans if you find the plan you are in does not meet your needs. This period starts January 1 – March 31.
The Medicare Open Enrollment Period runs from Jan 1-March. During this time, Medicare beneficiaries can compare plans and choose the coverage that best meets their needs. They can also switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan or vice versa.
When Does Medicare Start For Seniors?
Medicare coverage begins when an individual turns 65 years old. However, individuals who are already receiving disability benefits from Social Security at age 64 will be automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B.
Enrollment for those not receiving disability benefits at age 64 generally starts three months before the individual’s 65th birthday.
Coverage includes hospital stays, doctor visits, prescription drugs, and other medical services. Seniors can also sign up for Medicare Advantage plans, which offer additional coverage options like vision and dental care.
The Advantages of a Medicare Advantage Plan
Benefits
Original Medicare
Medicare Advantage
Doctors visits
Specialist visits
Hospitalization
Skilled Nursing Facility
Nursing home care
Home health services
Preventive services
* Benefits Vary Based On Plan
Benefits
Original Medicare
Medicare Advantage
Prescription drug coverage
Out-of-pocket maximums
Dental
Vision
Hearing
Transportation benefits
Over-the-counter(OTC) items
Meal plan after hospitalization
Fitness/gym membership
Nursing hotline
Wellness programs
Extra benefits vary by plan.
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Connect With a Trusted Medicare Specialist In Your State! We Will Check If Your Zip Code has NEW Benefits & Compare Plans To Meet Your Needs!
Speak to an Agent Today And Get The Right Plan For You.
At Senior Healthcare Advisors, we understand how important it is to choose the right Medicare plan. We also know that the process can be long and confusing.
That’s why we have a team of licensed Medicare agents who are ready to answer all your questions and help you make the best decision for your needs.
We’re dedicated to being thorough and efficient, and we are open Monday to Thursday from 9 AM to 9 PM Eastern Standard Time and 9 AM to 6 PM on Friday.
During Annual Enrollment Period AEP – Oct 15th – Dec 7th We are also open on Saturdays 10 AM -6PM
So if you’re nearing 65 or are already a Medicare beneficiary, don’t hesitate to give us a call. We’ll be happy to help you navigate the Medicare system and find the best plan for you.