Health insurance has become a hot topic over the last few years, as it has been difficult for some to obtain. Most of the time, your employer provides health insurance when you meet specific requirements. There are options for those who are not offered health insurance through their employers. When the holidays begin, you may get so wrapped up in spending time with family and friends that you forget this is also time for open enrollment.
During this open enrollment time period, you will be able to review your benefits and make any changes to your current plan. There are exceptions that allow people to make changes at other times during the year, but for most people, changes are made during open enrollment. This is why you want to select the right plan for you, during this time.
Trending Benefits
As times have changed, these benefits ad open enrollment periods may look quite different than other years. There are a few popular benefits that people are now looking for in their insurance plans. A key new widespread change is the availability of telehealth visits that allow patients to meet with their doctors virtually, much like FaceTime. Substance use disorder treatment and mental health programs are other areas of interest for those getting insurance. People have begun to put their health first, and insurance plans are expanding benefits to meet this need.
Tips for Open Enrollment
The open enrollment period for the Marketplace ends on January 15th, unless there is a qualifying life event like a new baby, marriage, or divorce. You can enroll in several different ways. You can do so online, over the phone, by mail, in person, or through an agent. If no changes are needed, then your current plan will automatically renew.
Plan Options
You can make changes to your benefits, and open enrollment allows you to review your dental, vision, and health plans, as well as life insurance policies. You may also have the chance to contribute to a health savings account or flexible savings account. You should consider what the right amount of coverage is for you and the best way to obtain insurance for the right amount of coverage. Consider any out-of-pocket costs such as premiums, co-pays, deductibles, and prescription coverage. You want to compare both your and your spouse’s plan options to find the best fit for your family. Individuals who may not usually be eligible for insurance become eligible during pregnancy, so this is also an important time to talk with a Benefits Specialist.
Health Savings Account (HSA)
During the open enrollment period, you may want to consider a plan that includes health savings accounts. This account will allow you to save for out-of-pocket expenses before paying taxes and will even roll over unused funds to the following year. Another benefit is being able to decide how much you contribute to the plan.
Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
Another option to consider during the benefits and open enrollment period is an FSA account. Similar to an HSA, you contribute money periodically to an account. The most significant difference is that you will lose them if you do not use the funds by the end of the year.
VNA Health Care Can Answer All Your Questions
At VNA Health Care, we accept a range of health insurance plans and provide options for those who have no insurance. Contact us online or call us today at (630) 593-7974 to schedule an appointment.