Your health needs can change from year to year. That’s why you need to be prepared, and use the annual Medicare Open Enrollment period to compare health insurance plans and coverage options.
The Medicare open enrollment period is the right time to see if you qualify or can find lower costs or better coverage, or just make sure your current plan is still the best way to go. You may find a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C) or Medicare prescription drug plan (Part D) that lowers your out-of-pocket costs, or provides better coverage for your current health care needs — or both.
From now until Dec. 7, you can visit Medicare.gov to see your options, benefits and costs if you qualify for Medicare. Use the annual Medicare Open Enrollment period to compare Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C) and Medicare prescription drug coverage (Part D) offerings to find the best plan for you.
Find the care you want, when and where you need it.
What is Medicare?
Medicare is federal health insurance. It’s available for people 65 and older and some younger people with disabilities, end-stage renal disease or ALS. You can learn more about your eligibility at Medicare.gov.
What are my Medicare plan options?
It’s important to understand your options, benefits and costs if you qualify for Medicare. You can sign up for Medicare during certain times of the year. When you do sign up, you choose how you get your coverage.
There are two main ways to get Medicare.
- Original Medicare includes Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance). You can go to any doctor or hospital that takes Medicare in the U.S. You can also buy supplemental coverage to help pay for out-of-pocket costs. You can also join a separate Medicare drug plan to get Medicare drug coverage (Part D).
- Medicare Advantage is also known as Medicare Part C. This combines hospital and medical coverage. It may also include prescription drug coverage, with extra benefits. Private insurance companies offer these plans and must follow rules set by Medicare. In most cases, you’ll get your care and services from doctors, other health care providers or hospitals in the plan’s network. However, you have the flexibility to seek care out of network. But that care is usually for a higher copay.
What dates do I need to know for open enrollment?
Oct. 15, 2023 – annual enrollment period begins
Dec. 7, 2023 – annual enrollment period ends
Jan. 1, 2024 – plans selected during the annual enrollment period begin
Tips for choosing the Medicare plan that’s right for you
When enrolling in Medicare coverage, choose a plan with in-network access to Novant Health care. Our convenient options for care include numerous clinic locations near you, video and e-visits, same-day appointments and free online health management tools. You can start your search here.
Why enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan?
A Medicare Advantage plan provides all the Part A and Part B benefits of original Medicare, plus additional benefits. Most Medicare Advantage plans have a $0 monthly premium. This plan includes coverage for dental, vision, hearing and much more. Part D prescription drug benefits are also included, so there’s no need to pay for a separate prescription drug plan.
Will I get to visit Novant Health doctors and hospitals?
Novant Health accepts Original Medicare at all locations. Find an updated list of Medicare Advantage plans that Novant Health participates in at NovantHealth.org/Medicare.
New for 2024: insulin savings
The cost of a one-month supply of each Part D-covered insulin will be capped at $35, and you won’t have to pay a deductible. For help comparing plan options and costs for 2023, call 1-800-MEDICARE.
Who can help me select the right Medicare plan?
The State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) can help. It provides local, in-depth and objective insurance counseling and helps Medicare-eligible individuals, their families and caregivers. Visit ShipHelp.org or call 877-839-2675 to find trained people in your community who can help you select a plan and enroll. It’s free. Most of these groups are available to meet in-person.
Where can I learn more?
Visit NovantHealth.org/Medicare to learn more about the Medicare Advantage plans in which Novant Health participates.
Visit Medicare.gov or call 800-633-4227 for the most up-to-date resources.
