By Dr. Kevin Dorrance, Chief Medical Officer, Flagship Health

The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is here! From now until December 7, anyone who is Medicare-eligible — including Americans aged 65 and older, as well as those with certain disabilities — can review and select a health plan that best aligns with their needs.

Medicare Advantage plans, offered by private insurance companies, can enhance your health and wellness by providing comprehensive coverage options. Many of these plans also have built-in cost-saving features, such as caps on out-of-pocket expenses for services and prescription medications. Some plans eliminate copayments for primary care visits, allowing you to see your doctor without extra costs.

Additional benefits often available with Medicare Advantage plans include coverage for dental, hearing, and vision care. Some plans also offer added perks, such as gym memberships, discounts on healthy food and over-the-counter medical items, and even the "Giveback Benefit," where certain plans contribute to members' Medicare Part B premiums.

Steps to Take During the Annual Enrollment Period

1. Start with Medicare.gov
   Visit the official Medicare website and enter your zip code to explore the available Medicare Advantage plans in your area. This is a good starting point to see a list of options.
   
   
2. Seek Guidance From an Expert
   Medicare can feel complex, so consider reaching out to a trusted local broker or community advisor for help. They can walk you through different plans and answer questions to make sure you’re well-informed.

We also invite you to attend any of Flagship Health's free informational sessions on AEP, Medicare, and Medicare Advantage. These events feature trusted, physician-approved brokers who can answer all your questions and help you choose the plan that is best for you.

–> Click here for our San Antonio events 

–> Click here for our Colorado Springs events

Key Considerations When Choosing a Medicare Advantage Plan

• Evaluate Costs
  Each plan has unique costs, such as premiums, deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. Reviewing these details can help you understand the financial impact of each option and ensure it aligns with your budget and health needs. 
  
  
• Check the Network
  If you have a preferred pharmacy, doctor, or hospital, confirm that they're in-network with any plan you're considering. Staying within a network can often mean lower costs and continuity of care. If you’re looking to switch providers, make sure they’re also included in your new plan’s network. 
  
  
• Review Your Medications
  Make a list of your current medications and check if they’re covered under the plan’s formulary. Some plans offer better coverage for certain prescriptions, and understanding these details can help you avoid unexpected costs for medications.

Taking time to understand and select the right plan is an important step toward managing your healthcare effectively and responsibly. Contact us if you need a referral to one of our trusted insurance brokers for guidance on choosing the right health plan.

About Dr. Kevin Dorrance

Dr. Kevin Dorrance serves as Flagship Health’s Chief Medical Officer and has over 25 years of experience caring for patients in the veteran community. He served in the U.S. Navy for more than 35 years, achieving the rank of Captain. His distinguished military service includes roles as Chief Medical Officer for the U.S. Navy and Chief of Medicine at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. Dr. Dorrance holds an academic appointment as Associate Professor of Medicine and is a faculty member in the Department of Health Services Administration at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USUHS). He earned his medical degree from USUHS, graduating with distinction, and holds a BS in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology from the University of Colorado Boulder.

Contact Flagship Health

At Flagship Health, we’re here not only to provide primary care but also to offer guidance on how healthcare decisions impact your well-being. We’re a trusted healthcare partner, not an insurance provider, dedicated to offering comprehensive, quality care for seniors and veterans. Contact us to learn more about our primary care practice or to book an appointment.