Millions of Americans evaluate their health options during open enrollment. But a recent survey found that 43% of people regret a health decision they made because of bad information, and 1 in 5 admit that content creators, or influencers, without medical credentials have influenced these same types of decisions.
Registration dates
For people with coverage through their job, the open enrollment period generally occurs for two or three weeks between September and December.
For people looking for individual plans through the health insurance marketplace, the open enrollment period begins November 1 and ends January 15 in most states.
This is the crucial time to select coverage that benefits you. Consider the following tips to help you choose a plan that can help your health and wallet:
1. Start early.
Take the time to understand and compare the benefits, services and costs of each available plan, including updates to the plan you already have. Look beyond the monthly premium and consider out-of-pocket expenses like deductibles, copays and coinsurance.
2. Learn the terms.
Health care terms can be confusing, but there are resources available to help you. To help you make more informed decisions, use the glossary justplainclear.com in Spanish.
3. Avoid unexpected expenses.
Before selecting a plan and to help you reduce costs, confirm that your doctor is in-network. Check to see if your medications are covered, even if you’re not changing plans. Consider using in-network pharmacies or opt for home delivery to save money. Some plans are designed specifically to help you manage health care costs.
4. Prioritize mental health.
Check what type of mental health services are included in each plan, such as in-person and virtual visits, 24/7 mental health support lines, and digital self-care tools. Some insurers, like UnitedHealthcare, can offer a wide range of mental health services, including immediate support tools, like Calm Health.
5. Don’t forget about the extra benefits.
Dental, vision or hearing coverage, as well as financial and critical illness protection, may be available and help support your overall well-being.
6. Consider virtual care.
If you prefer care from home, choose a plan that includes 24/7 virtual visits. Digital resources can help make it simpler to search for doctors and compare costs. Today’s health apps offer everything from wellness visits to maternity care in one place.
How to verify health information
There is a lot of health information online, but not all of it is correct. Here are three ways to help you spot bad information:
– Check the source:
Does it come from a trusted doctor or health group? Does it include official statistics?
– Be alert for red flags:
Be wary of messages that offer quick fixes or products without explaining risks or that use scare tactics.
– Check before acting:
If something sounds extreme or too good to be true, ask your doctor or verify it with a trusted source of information.
Visit GetTheFacts to help you clear up any confusion and better understand how the healthcare system works.
For more helpful articles and videos on open enrollment, visit HealthPlans.com.
