SHELTON, Conn., Aug. 12 /PRNewswire/ -- Health Plan One, a general agent in the online health insurance market, seeks to guide seniors to choose carefully when selecting their Medicare Advantage (MA) or Medicare supplement (Medigap) plan. Seniors will have only one opportunity to make changes to their Medicare plans during the Annual Enrollment Period this November 15 through December 31.

Here are five tips for seniors researching their plan options from the experts at Medicare Solutions:

    1. Check your coverage. Although seniors were promised no changes to
       Medicare in recent legislation, be sure your existing plan was not
       changed or eliminated. You should be notified by your carrier.
    2. Revisit your RX costs. Because prescription drug coverage is not
       available as part of a Medicare supplement, those who choose a Medigap
       plan typically also enroll in a Part D Prescription Drug Plan (PDP). MA
       plans, governed by private carriers, can change their plan's prescription
       drug formulary outline or change co-payments.
    3. Consider your out-of-pocket costs. Though some MA plans cost an
       additional monthly premium, some with different coverage options are
       available at zero premium. Review changes in your out-of-pocket costs,
       including office, hospital and surgery co-pays.
    4. Location, location, location. MA plans available to seniors differ based
       on the state in which they reside. Seniors usually have many health plans
       to choose from based on their residency. If you spend part of the year in
       different states, you'll want a Medigap plan or a MA plan with a national
       network.
    5. Most Medigap plans increase rates on dates other than January 1. So
       review last year's rate change and consider that you may get a similar
       increase at the same time next year.

ABOUT Health Plan One

Seniors needing help with their Medicare coverage may find a more affordable option by using MedicareSolutions.com or by speaking with our knowledgeable licensed agents. Medicare experts are available Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, to answer questions and to assist users. (800) 328-7305

Contact: Karin Holmgren (203) 402-2503 kholmgren@healthplanone.com

SOURCE Health Plan One