(It’s been a few months since my last post, due to an unexpected health issue. I am now back to regular blogging.)
Open season
The term describes the time of year when a particular 
wildlife species is allowed to be hunted. Each state creates its own laws and codes governing the season dates and species Establishing these involves a complex process.
Open Enrollment season
October 15 to December 7 this year marks Medicare Open Enrollment. A complex process which takes place in the midst of serious, significant advertising.
The hunted target: seniors.
The aim of the advertisers: increasing membership in Medicare Advantage plans.
The strategy: focus on the many benefits of Medicare Advantage..
What the advertisers don’t tell you can cost you.
Age Happens. Commonly bringing unexpected physical changes, often requiring costly medical attention.
A Cautionary Tale
One year ago, I changed from a traditional Medicare-plus-supplement plan. I opted for the advertised short-term gains—”including $0 monthly premiums, free dental and vision plans,” plus a gym membership–over longer-term risks. For several months all was well.
But then! Because of an unforeseeable, unavoidable surgery, my estimated financial responsibilities–up to the MA $6,750 limit on out-of-pocket expenses– could be more than twice what they would have been had I paid a year’s monthly premiums for traditional Medicare.
My Medicare DIS-Advantage experience. Others’ experiences may be different.
Special Enrollment Period/SEP
This year during Medicare Open Enrollment I plan to take advantage of a little-publicized, one-time-only benefit. Seniors who’ve been in an Advantage plan for less than a year can opt with no penalties to return to their previous, traditional Medicare plan under what’s called SEP – a Special Enrollment Period. The caveat: the Medicare Advantage plan must have been in force for LESS THAN A YEAR.
Look before leaping
Or put another way–Research before signing. Any licensed Medicare broker at www.medicare.gov or 1-800-Medicare can provide further information, explanations and plan comparisons.
