Autumn is officially here, and along with pumpkins, changing leaves, and cooler temperatures, it’s also enrollment season for health insurance. Open enrollment is a time to renew, change, or enroll in an insurance plan.
At Prima Medicine, we understand how challenging it can be to select the right plan for your family, and we’re here to help. Our experienced providers offer comprehensive internal medicine services as well as urgent care for patients in Fairfax and South Riding, Virginia. And, if you’re a new patient, you can rest easy knowing we take most major insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid.
With different plan options to choose from, we want you to feel confident that you’re picking the right one for you. To help you make the best choice, we’ve put together our top four tips to consider when choosing a plan.
1. Understand your plan options
One-size-fits-all doesn’t apply when it’s time to select your insurance plan. Regardless of whether this is your first time choosing a plan or if you’re considering making a change to your current coverage, it’s important to be sure you understand your options and compare the costs, benefits, and services of each plan.
Take time to ensure you have a good grasp of what key insurance words and phrases mean, such as premium, deductible, coinsurance, and out-of-pocket maximum. If you’re eligible for Medicare, make sure you understand the different options and how they can affect your coverage.
2. Think about your health needs
It’s impossible to anticipate every health care need you may have over the next year. However, if you’re anticipating a major life change, such as the addition of a baby or a planned surgery, be sure to compare the differences in how different plans handle these needs, including out-of-pocket maximums.
You’ll also want to think about any chronic conditions you or a family member may have. At Prima Medicine, our team provides coverage for many health conditions in addition to wellness visits. Be sure to evaluate the differences between plans with these concerns in mind.
3. Consider the importance of telehealth
The COVID-19 global pandemic has brought telehealth to the forefront, but there are many reasons telehealth is a good option for many patients. Virtual visits make health care more manageable if you’re trying to balance family schedules, work obligations, and other responsibilities.
Look for a plan that covers virtual visits and a provider that offers the ability to meet with your doctor from the comfort and safety of your own home. At Prima Medicine, you can meet with your doctor to discuss health issues via your smartphone, tablet, or computer. We also offer curbside testing and lab results
4. Consider your primary care provider
Before making changes to your plan, verify that your primary care provider (PCP) is still part of your plan’s network. It’s especially important to look at this if you know you’ll be switching insurance companies or plans.
Open enrollment season is also a good time to choose a PCP if you don’t already have one. At Prima Medicine, our team also offers preventive care to ensure your overall health and long-term wellness.
At Prima Medicine, your health is our primary concern. For high quality health care, book an appointment online or over the phone, or schedule a telehealth appointment today.
