Medicare registration opens in a month: What retirees need to know about health insurance in the US

Open Enrollment for Medicare begins in just one month. USA Today spoke about three important aspects of health insurance in the United States that all retirees should know.

It is a big misconception that once you enroll in Medicare you can expect to see lower health care costs. ЗдравоохранениеFor many, the opposite happens.

Health problems don't get any better as you age, and Medicare doesn't cover everything and has some costs. This combination can put enormous pressure on pension savings and budget.

That's why it's important to choose and use your Medicare plan wisely.

The Medicare open enrollment period runs from October 15 to December 7 each year, but there are a few things all seniors need to know.

1. You can't sign up for Medicare for the first time during open enrollment.

Open enrollment is only for existing Medicare members—those who need to renew their coverage for another year, choose a new plan, and so on.

You have seven months to sign up for Medicare for the first time: the month you turn 65, plus three months before that, and three months after that.

If you miss this initial period, you will have to wait until the general Medicare enrollment period, which runs from January 1 to March 31 of each year.

2. You should review your policy, even if you are happy with the coverage.

Many people are looking forward to Medicare Open Enrollment because they are frustrated with their coverage and want to change plans. But even if you have no complaints about your current plan, it’s still worth exploring your options in October—you might find something that’s an even better fit for you.

On the subject: Why you shouldn't listen to health advice from centenarians

There may be a cheaper plan available for the same level of coverage you currently have. Why not save some money? Also, if your health care needs have changed during the year, it’s especially smart to review your plan choices to find a better fit.

3. Be careful with Medicare Advantage: You may be overpaying for things you don't use

Many seniors choose Medicare Advantage over original Medicare because these plans offer additional services that original Medicare doesn't cover. For example, original Medicare doesn't pay for dental care, eye exams, or hearing aids. But Medicare Advantage plans often cover these services.

Some Medicare Advantage plans go well beyond dental, vision, and other services. They offer benefits that include gym memberships and meal delivery. But if you're paying for a Medicare Advantage plan with a lot of benefits, it's important to make sure you're using what you're paying for. If you're not using your plan's extra benefits, it may be worth dropping.

It's not uncommon to find that another Medicare Advantage plan offers more basic, additional benefits you need at a lower cost.