NEW YORK, Oct. 12, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- With so many choices and variables to consider, choosing a Medicare plan can often be a challenging process for seniors. Fidelis Care makes it easy with the Affordable Care Advisor, an online calculator found on fideliscare.org that compares benefits and costs of available plans and also allows seniors to make an appointment with a licensed Fidelis Care Medicare Representative. When considering options, Fidelis Care reminds seniors to include a family member so they are comfortable with their decision.
"It's important for seniors and their family members to find the Medicare Advantage product that best meets their needs," explained Pamela Hassen, Fidelis Care Chief Marketing Officer. "At Fidelis Care, we know that researching Medicare plans isn't always as simple as A-B-C, which is why we try to provide as many tools and resources as possible to help people make the best decision for themselves."
The open enrollment period for Medicare begins on October 15 and ends on December 7. When comparing Medicare plans, Hassen offers the following research tips:
• A: Add up all possible costs. Consider the monthly premiums, copays, coinsurance, deductibles, and out-of-pocket maximums each plan presents to estimate your possible costs in 2017. Fidelis Care Medicare Advantage members can look up their past claims online using the Member Portal, to estimate how much they spent on health care within the previous year.
• B: Balance the price with your health care needs. The Medicare Advantage option you select should offer a good value. For example, some plans have higher monthly premiums but low copays for provider visits, while others have no monthly premium, but higher copays. Determine what works best for you based on your budget and how often you might need health care.
• C: Check your medications. Always take a look at the plan's drug formulary to see if your medications are included, as well as how much they will cost you under the plan you are considering. Talk with your provider if you have questions.
• D: Decide on your providers. Make sure the doctors and hospitals you want will accept the plan that you choose. Further, if you're considering switching providers, make sure they are conveniently located.
About Fidelis Care:
As a faith-based, mission-driven health plan, Fidelis Care offers quality, affordable coverage for children and adults of all ages and at all stages of life, including products available through NY State of Health: The Official Health Plan Marketplace. With more than 1.5 million members Statewide, Fidelis Care was founded on the belief that all New Yorkers should have access to affordable, quality health insurance. For more information, call Fidelis Care at 1-888-FIDELIS (1-888-343-3547) or visit fideliscare.org.
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