Before Open Enrollment, Compare Plans on the Costs You’ll Actually Pay
Premiums are the easiest number to see. Deductibles, drug formularies and provider networks often matter more.
By Priya Anand, Reporter, Medicare and Health Costs
Published 6 min read
Each fall, Medicare beneficiaries can switch between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage, or change Part D drug plans, during the annual open enrollment period from Oct. 15 through Dec. 7. Changes take effect Jan. 1.
Plans revise premiums, deductibles, covered drugs and networks from year to year. Reviewing the annual notice of change from your current plan, and checking your prescriptions and doctors against any plan you are considering, is the most direct way to compare total costs.
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Reporter, Medicare and Health Costs
Priya Anand writes about Medicare enrollment, prescription drug coverage and the health costs that fall to retirees.
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