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Open enrollment is a period each year when employees or individuals can sign up for their health plans. Since many plans start or renew on January 1, fall is a popular time for open enrollment, which means it is just around the corner.
As the cost of healthcare continues to rise, it's important to take advantage of open enrollment and select the plan that's right for you and your family. All too often, people simply allow their plan to roll over into the next year, without taking the time to see if there are additional options to consider.
1. Do your research. Prepare for open enrollment by doing your own research. You should have a good understanding of common healthcare terms, and you should understand the specifics of your current plan, so you can decide whether it’s time to make a switch.
2. Ask questions. Ask your employer, benefit administrator, or insurance carrier for the specifics of the plans being offered. Request a detailed benefit and cost analysis to help you decide which plan is best for you. You should also ask for a summary of benefits and coverage, so you can easily evaluate components such as deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums, instead of focusing solely on premiums.
Open enrollment is also the perfect time to ask whether there are additional programs and services available. Ask if your plan offers any health and wellness, incentive or discount programs to help you save on your healthcare costs.
3. Join in. If there are meetings, health fairs, or webinars scheduled during open enrollment, join them. It’s the easiest way to get more information. These meetings can give you the opportunity to ask direct questions about benefits and the value-added extras that your plan offers. Plus, there are often free giveaways and drawings for prizes.
4. Be prepared. Once you select the plan that's right for you, prepare to enroll. Whether you do it on a paper form or electronically, be sure that you have all of the information needed to enroll. This includes personal information about yourself and your dependent(s).
In the end, it's up to you to be your own healthcare advocate and to select a plan that's right for you and your family. Talk to your employer, benefit administrator, or insurance provider about the dates and requirements for open enrollment.
This post was created by SLM Partner Studio on behalf of HealthLink. Visit HealthLink's website to learn more about how to become a smart healthcare consumer.
