5 Tips for Choosing Your Health Benefits for 2025

by Marc Neely, CEO of UnitedHealthcare in Colorado and Wyoming

As millions of Americans explore their health insurance options now during the fall open enrollment season, a new survey finds that three in five Americans have misdefined key health care terms. This gap in knowledge can result in less than optimal choices, which can result in you missing out on plans that better suit your needs and offer potential cost savings.

Registration time: For those with coverage through their employer, open enrollment typically occurs within a two- or three-week period between September and December. For those eligible for Medicare, the annual Medicare enrollment period runs from October 15th to December 7th each year. The insurance coverage decisions made in the fall will come into force on January 1, 2025. For people purchasing individual plans on the Health Insurance Marketplace, open enrollment in most states begins November 1, 2024 and ends January 15, 2025. Enroll by December 15 for active coverage on January 1 2025.

Here are some tips to consider when choosing a plan that can help you achieve better health and cost savings:

1. Plan ahead. Take time to understand the benefits, benefits and costs of available plans – including possible changes to your current coverage. Pay attention not only to the monthly premium, but also to what out-of-pocket costs you will incur, such as deductibles, copayments and co-insurance.

Medicare members and caregivers: As you weigh your options, evaluate the differences between them Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage. Visit MedicareEducation.com to find answers to questions about eligibility, plan selection, prescription coverage and more.

2. Help you avoid unexpected costs. Check to see if your doctor is in your plan’s provider network, as visiting in-network providers can help reduce out-of-pocket costs. Make sure your medications are covered for the next year by the plan you choose. And consider filling your prescriptions at an in-network pharmacy or via home delivery – more cost-effective options.

Medicare members and caregivers: Original Medicare generally does not cover prescription drugs. Consider enrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan with prescription drug coverage to keep drug costs under control.

3. Find out about mental health coverage. Beyond in-person mental health care, you may have access to a virtual network of therapists and psychiatrists Supporter to help find the right behavioral health care or resources.Medicare members and caregivers: Look for plans that offer virtual mental health care with a $0 copay.

4. Find out about special services. Additional benefits such as dental, vision, hearing, or critical illness insurance are often available and can contribute to overall well-being.

Medicare members and caregivers: Original Medicare doesn’t cover most dental, vision and hearing services, but many Medicare Advantage plans do.

5. Consider wellness programs. Many health insurance companies offer incentives for healthier measures, such as: B. completing a health survey or physical activity. Others offer Individual support for people with common chronic illnesses such as: Type 2 diabetes.

Medicare members and caregivers: Many Medicare Advantage plans offer members gym memberships and wellness programs at no additional cost.