10/04/2022 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/04/2022 09:58
Three ways to help your parents avoid Medicare mistakes 
October 4, 2022Three ways to help your parents avoid Medicare mistakes
Tips to help parents save money and get the best Medicare coverage for their lifestyle and needs
Champaign, Ill. - It is not uncommon for adult children to assist their naturally aging parents in navigating many of the age-related decisions they face. It is especially true when it comes to Medicare.
Beginning at age 65, Medicare is the primary way most people will meet their healthcare needs in retirement, but the complex system can be less than simple to understand. This is where adult children can make a difference. By using problem-solving skills to match their parents' needs with the plans, options and other benefits available, adult children can help assure their loved ones walk away with coverage that fits their lifestyles, health status and budget.
But where to begin? Missing deadlines, delaying enrollment or choosing the wrong plan can cost your parents money and needed care.
Listed below are three significant ways you can help ensure your parents get the best Medicare coverage for their lifestyle and needs.
Tip #1 Learn the Basics.
Timing: The annual open enrollment period for Medicare runs from Oct. 15 through Dec. 7. It is the same time period every year.
Choices: Everyone has two broad choices for Medicare coverage - traditional Medicare and Medicare Advantage.
The differences between the two plan options are summarized below.
Original Medicare
Medicare Advantage plan (also known as Medicare Part C)
"With a comprehensive Medicare Advantage plan, members are given the same convenient access to benefits all on one plan as they may have had from an employer," says Terra Mullins, Director of Community Outreach with Health Alliance. "These Medicare Advantage plans are designed to work within a variety of budgets and often include additional coverage for fitness activities and discounts for over-the-counter items."
Tip #2 Talk with your parents about their needs, must-haves and like-to-haves.
You may not be accustomed to talking with a parent about their health and finances, but having that conversation is important to understanding both their specific health insurance needs and what can be afforded. Talk with parents about their:
Matching your parents' needs to what different plans offer makes the decision process easier. Once you have the "must-haves" covered, focus on the "like-to-haves". Medicare Advantage plans often include other benefits to help keep people well.
Tip #3 Know where to turn for help.
Now is the time to compare Medicare plans and save - help is out there. Whether you determine a parent would do best on original Medicare or with an all-in-one Medicare Advantage plan, like those offered by Health Alliance, the focus should be on his or her health and wellness needs and which option offers coverage for the things that matter most.
Need more information about Medicare plans and enrollment?