First, when comparing Medicare Advantage Plans (MA or MAPD), you need to review the plan’s network of doctors, copays, coinsurance, deductibles, and any other out of pocket costs, including the plan’s annual maximum out of pocket expense cap that you may be responsible for paying. Plus you should also consider any additional benefits the plan may offer such as prescription drugs, dental, vision, hearing, fitness club memberships, Over The Counter benefits all which may possibly be included in a plan at no additional premium.
Similarly, when comparing Part D stand alone Medicare Prescription Drug Plans (PDP) you need to review the plan’s network of pharmacies, the plan’s preferred pharmacies (where you may have lower costs), all your drug's copays, coinsurance, and deductibles expenses that you may be responsible for paying.
After you have reviewed all the particulars of the plans, you should also review the current year’s star ratings of that plan. The star ratings can, and many times do change annually! So be sure to review the most current star ratings provided by Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, also known just as “CMS.” (Note: CMS is a government agency, not a private company. So star ratings are impartial.)
Medicare star ratings help rank the plans from best (5 stars) to the worst (1 star). The star ratings are based on the plan’s quality of care and measurement of customer satisfaction.
Using the Medicare Plan Finder (located at: https://www.medicare.gov/plan-compare ) you can find a plan’s star rating.
Understand how to use Medicare star ratings when choosing a Medicare Advantage or Medicare Prescription Drug Plan. (Note: Medicare Supplement Plans do not have star ratings.) Important: Don’t just look at one rating category, but consider the “Overall Star Rating" when making a plan decision.
Medicare Advantage Plans
Medicare Advantage plan star ratings are based on these 5 categories:
- Member Experience
- Plan Performance
- Customer Service
- Staying Healthy
- Chronic Conditions
Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plan (PDP)
Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plans star ratings are based on these 4 categories:
- Member Experience
- Plan Performance
- Customer Service
- Drug Safety and Pricing
Note: Medicare Insurance information can be overwhelming and confusing to many people. As an independent licensed agent I can explain things to you in simple terms so you feel comfortable making a decision. Then I can help you choose and enroll in a plan that you feel fits your needs.
By the way, it doesn’t cost you any more if you enroll in a Medicare Insurance plan through me as an independent agent versus directly with an insurance company either over the phone or via the Internet, since I get paid by the insurance companies for your enrollment. Plus you will have personalized service by a local agent. If you would like my assistance, please call me at 941-404-5334.
By calling this number, I understand I will be directed to a licensed insurance sales agent.