HOUSTON – Last fall, you may have been amongst the millions of Americans who made choices about their Medicare coverage, but being proactive about your coverage in care doesn’t end after enrollment.
Lindsay Olaiya with UnitedHealthcare, Medicare, and Retirement in Texas shared some of the many ways that you can and should get more from your Medicare benefits.
“Your Medicare plan can have a huge impact on your health and your financial situation. So first thing I recommend is that you take advantage of what it’s offered in the way of preventative care,” said Olaiya.
A majority of the plans have cancer screenings as well as an annual wellness exam that will not cost you a thing. Taking advantage of these are “ a great place to start,” said Olaiya.
When it comes to taking preventative steps that benefit your health, be sure to check if your Medicare plan includes a fitness benefit. “We’re still kind of at the beginning of the year, and it’s never too late to get started, and focused on your physical fitness,” said Olaiya.
If you qualify for Medicare, there is a good chance you are either retired or living on a fixed income and if this is the case, every dollar really does count. Olaiya said this means taking advantage of what is included within your plan is important.
“Taking the time now to understand your benefits and the costs that are associated with the plan that you selected is really critical. If you have original Medicare, 80% of part B medical expenses, that’s doctor services, outpatient care are covered. However, you are responsible for 20%, and there is no out-of-pocket limit on that 20%. So you’ve got to prepare, for what may be coming,” explained Olayia.
If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, copays are more predictable and with this choosing a doctors that in network means you can take advantage of those fixed cost.
In 2024, UnitedHealthcare will again have the largest network of doctors and hospitals, which will help you coordinate your care and keep those costs predictable. So, that is definitely one benefit of Medicare Advantage,” said Olaia.
Watch the video above for more tips and to take a deeper dive into your Medicare plan, visit UHCMedicareHealthPlans.com