Every fall, thousands of Medicare beneficiaries review their coverage during the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP). While many people focus on comparing premiums and benefits, the most successful plan reviews actually begin before enrollment starts.
Gathering a few key documents ahead of time can help you make a more informed decision, avoid surprises, and ensure the plan you choose fits your healthcare needs and budget for the coming year.
Here are seven documents every Medicare beneficiary should have ready before comparing plans.
Your Current Medicare Card
Your Medicare card contains important information you’ll need when reviewing coverage options, including your Medicare number and the effective dates of your Part A and Part B coverage.
Having your card available helps ensure any plan comparisons are based on accurate eligibility information.
Your Current Plan Documents
Gather:
- Medicare Advantage Evidence of Coverage
- Annual Notice of Change (ANOC)
- Part D drug plan information
- Medicare Supplement policy information
These documents explain what is changing next year and what is staying the same.
A Current Medication List
One of the most common mistakes beneficiaries make is assuming their prescriptions will remain covered the same way each year.
Create a list that includes:
- Prescription name
- Dosage
- Frequency
- Preferred pharmacy
This information is critical when reviewing Part D plans and Medicare Advantage plans that include drug coverage.
Your Doctor and Specialist List
Healthcare provider networks can change annually.
Include:
- Primary care physician
- Specialists
- Preferred hospitals
- Outpatient facilities
Verifying provider participation before enrollment can help avoid unexpected out-of-network costs.
Recent Medical Bills and Explanation of Benefits
Looking at your healthcare utilization from the past year can reveal patterns.
Ask yourself:
- How often did I visit specialists?
- Did I have any hospital stays?
- Do I expect similar healthcare needs next year?
These answers can help determine whether a lower-premium or lower-out-of-pocket plan may be a better fit.
Income Documentation
Certain Medicare costs may be affected by income.
Having recent income documentation available can help you:
- Understand potential premium obligations
- Review subsidy eligibility
- Prepare for future Medicare-related expenses
Questions and Concerns List
Before reviewing plans, write down:
- Coverage concerns
- Benefit priorities
- Budget goals
- Upcoming healthcare needs
This simple step helps keep your plan review focused on your specific situation.
Common Questions to Ask During Your Review
Are My Doctors Still In-Network?
Always verify provider participation directly with the plan and provider office.
Are My Prescriptions Covered?
Review formularies annually. Drug coverage and tier placement can change.
Have My Costs Changed?
Compare:
- Premiums
- Deductibles
- Copays
- Coinsurance
- Maximum out-of-pocket limits
Do I Need Additional Benefits?
Consider whether you regularly use:
- Dental services
- Vision care
- Hearing services
- Fitness benefits
- Transportation services
Preparing for Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By gathering these seven documents before comparing plans, you’ll be better equipped to make a confident and informed decision.
Need help reviewing your Medicare options?
Contact Carolina Senior Benefits to schedule a no-obligation consultation.
