Seniors Shortchanged on Time as Annual Enrollment Period Shrinks This Fall

SHELTON, Conn., July 20 /PRNewswire/ -- HealthPlanOne, a general agent in the online health insurance market, announced today it will increase staffing for Medicare Solutions during the 2011 Annual Enrollment Period (AEP). The enrollment period for choosing a new Medicare Advantage plan has been significantly compressed by health reform legislation.

Historically, Medicare recipients could select a new Medicare Advantage plan between November 1 and December 31 during AEP; and change or drop their plan between January 1 and March 31 during Open Enrollment Period (OEP). However, health reform legislation eliminated the OEP, so that seniors have only 7 weeks to add or change a Medicare Advantage plan instead of the 21 weeks they had in prior years. Seniors can no longer join or switch an Advantage plan between January 1 and March 31. Seniors will have less time to review and consider new plans.

There are many other changes in Medicare plans that recipients should consider, including the elimination of some plans. Carriers are also eliminating most Private Fee for Service (PFFS) plans. Most seniors with PFFS plans will need to choose a new Medicare Advantage plan or consider a supplement plan and Part D plan. Knowing what services are needed within each plan and their costs is important.

To fulfill demand, the Medicare Solutions team will add several experienced Medicare representatives, who can answer questions and concerns about different plans from those eligible for Medicare.

Seniors needing help with their Medicare coverage may find a more affordable option by using MedicareSolutions.com and by speaking with our knowledgeable licensed agents, reading our free articles and tools for comparing costs. Medicare experts are available Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, to answer questions and to assist users. (800) 328-7305

ABOUT HealthPlanOne

Founded in 2005, HealthPlanOne offers the broadest portfolios of health plans from top-rated carriers available to individuals, families and Medicare recipients.  For more information, visit HealthPlanOne for individuals and families; and Medicare Solutions for Medicare beneficiaries.

Contact: Karin Holmgren (203) 402-2503 [email protected]

SOURCE HealthPlanOne