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Making it count: 5 tips for choosing a health plan
T
his fall millions will head to the polls to cast their For most people, changes made during this time will take
vote in the mid-term elections, but they have another effect Jan. 1, 2019.
important choice to make as well: their health care
coverage for 2019.
Choosing health benefits can feel stressful, but it doesn’t
have to be. Rebecca Madsen, chief consumer officer
People will have the opportunity to select or switch their of UnitedHealthcare, shares five tips to help make the
health insurance plans for 2019 during open or annual process easier and ensure you are choosing the right
enrollment.
option for you:
Review your options
But unlike Election Day, the dates to keep in mind aren’t
the same for everyone and vary depending on your Take the time to explore your options and understand
the benefits and costs of each plan so you can find the
situation:
coverage that works best for you. Beyond the monthly
* For the more than 175 million Americans with employer- premium, you also should understand what out-of-pocket
provided coverage, many companies set aside a two- costs, including the deductible, copays and coinsurance,
week period between September and December when you may be responsible for. Also, consider any changes
employees can select health benefits for the following year. to your health over the last year or if you have any major
health events planned for 2019 - such as having a baby
* For the more than 60 million people enrolled in or surgery - to determine if your current coverage still
Medicare, Medicare Annual Enrollment runs from Oct. fits your needs.
15 to Dec. 7 each year.
Prevent financial surprises
* Health insurance marketplace or individual state Before you select a plan, check if your doctor is in your
exchange open enrollment runs from Nov. 1 to Dec. 15. health plan’s care provider network. Visiting doctors
that are in-network is one way to help keep your costs
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WINTER GARDEN MAGAZINE
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DECEMBER 2018