1. Know the enrollment restrictions...

...There is an Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) beginning November 15, and ending December 31 each year. Anyone that is eligible for Medicare Part A and enrolled in Medicare Part B is eligible to choose a new plan during this season. Other enrollment times are available different times of the year. Contact our office and we can help you determine if you are eligible for another enrollment period.

2. Know the difference between Medicare Parts A & B

Medicare Part A covers Hospital, Skilled Nursing Facilities, Home Health, and Hospice for example. Medicare Part B covers Physician Services, Outpatient hospital services, and durable medical equipment for example.

3. Know your premiums and requirements

Make sure you know the ins and outs of your premiums in regards to both A and B parts. Often members are required to continue to pay Part B premiums regardless of which Advantage plan they choose.

4. Know the plans provider network

Make sure your current provider accepts the Medicare plans you are choosing. If you are willing to change providers or do not have a relationship with a provider, FamilyCare will help you choose a provider that can work with you.

5. Know what your maximum out of pocket is

Maximum out of pocket is a very important benefit that protects you from high medical costs. Once all of your co-payments and co-insurance have reached a certain point, you will not have any more costs other than your monthly premium for that calendar year.

6. Know what medications your plan covers

Every plan has a Formulary or list of covered drugs. Make sure that you check with your plan that your drugs are covered or check with your doctor to see if there are alternatives to your current drugs.

7. Know what resources are available for getting your questions answered

If you have questions, problems or just need to talk with someone regarding your plan, call our Member Services. FamilyCare prides itself on providing top notch personal service to all of our members.

8. Know your plan’s extra benefits

Some plans offer extra benefits such as; dental, vision, hearing alternative care, etc.

9. Know what plan works best for “you”

Shop around, and remember that Medicare plans are individual policies. It is important to select a plan and benefits that are right for you. What works for your friend or spouse may not work for you, and it's okay to enroll in a different plan.

10. Know that you have a local expert willing to walk you through the whole process

FamilyCare is a local company based in Portland, Oregon. If you have additional questions or need assistance please contact us at (800) 225-CARE (TTY (800) 735-2900) from 8 am - 8 pm M-F. We would like to talk with you about your individual situation and help get you started.