Getting Older Has Its Advantages

If you’re one of the more than 4 and a half million Floridians enrolled in Medicare, starting October 15 you can review your options and make some changes. It’s the Medicare Annual Enrollment period, and Millennium Physician Group Primary-Care Provider Rick Waks, D.O., warns there’s one thing that’s non-negotiable.

“They want to make sure that their primary care and the specialist that they want to see are available on that plan.

Most Medicare Advantage plans have extra benefits beyond what original Medicare offers such as:

• dental care
• eye exams
• glasses and corrective lenses
• hearing tests and hearing aids
• wellness programs and fitness memberships
• transportation and stipends for over-the-counter necessities

“I would say it’s absolutely a great option,” advises Dr. Waks. “A lot of the patients will get cheaper copays, cheaper medications.”

No and low-cost plans and out-of-pocket caps can be attractive. Dr. Waks says compared to 10 years ago, he is seeing double and triple the number of patients opting for Medicare Advantage plans.

“The Medicare Advantage plans offer a lot more options,” he says. “Things can be cheaper, more tests available. Different doctors are in these plans. You really should look into your different options and see what’s available and works best for you. It’s one of the best benefits of turning 65.”

To learn more about Medicare Advantage and which plan might best suit your needs, head to medicare.gov or YourMedicareConnect.com.