You’ve Enrolled in a New Medicare Advantage Plan; What’s Next?

Congratulations on enrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan! 

Like more than 30 million other people eligible for Medicare (based on 2023 figures from KFF), you’ve chosen to seek out the healthcare coverage and benefits that best align with your needs by substituting a Medicare Advantage (MA) plan for Original Medicare. On average, private insurers offer dozens of MA options in every ZIP code, and the number keeps growing. That makes it more important than ever to take the time each year to check what’s available in your area. 

We’re glad that a GoHealth licensed insurance agent was able to help you sort through all those possibilities and find the right combination of benefits and services. Taking full advantage of your MA plan can make a real difference in your wellness and peace of mind.  

Let’s explore how you can make the most of your coverage and benefits in the months ahead. 

What Happens Next? 

Your new plan will activate soon: 

• If you signed up for your MA plan during the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), between October 15 and December 7, your coverage starts January 1 of the new year. 
• If you signed up at another time, such as during your Initial Coverage Election Period or a Special Enrollment Period, your plan goes into effect the first of the following month. 

You should receive your plan ID card within the next few weeks.  

• Need to refer to your plan details while you’re waiting for the card to arrive? Access the insurance carrier’s online portal. You should have received the login details in a welcome email. 
• If you have any problems logging into the portal or finding your information, contact your carrier for help. 

If you’ve switched from a different MA plan, your old insurance carrier may send a cancellation notice.  

• The cancellation notice might look urgent, but there’s no need to take any action when you receive this message; your new benefits will start automatically on schedule. 
• In the meantime, your current coverage will remain effective until the new plan starts in case you need to see a doctor, fill a prescription, or manage an emergency. 

Start Planning for a Healthy Year 

Now is a great time to start making doctor’s appointments. If your plan includes additional benefits like dental, hearing, and vision care, you can schedule these services as well.  

Most MA plans are HMOs, which require you to see healthcare providers who are part of your network to receive full coverage. Getting to know what local doctors, hospitals, specialists, and pharmacies are in your network will help you plan your care and save money. 

If you’re enrolled in a PPO, you have more flexibility to see your preferred providers as long as they accept Medicare and are able to take payment through your specific plan. Call each provider’s office to confirm. 

GoHealth’s Member Services team will stay in touch. We’re dedicated to helping you reach your health goals and take full advantage of your benefits. Whenever possible, we’ll direct you to the plan features that address your needs or connect you with local organizations that provide free or reduced-cost resources. 

Any concerns about your coverage, benefits, networks, or the services available to you? Don’t hesitate to reach out to us at 1–855-456-0756.

Frequently Asked Questions 

How do I access details on my plan costs and benefits? 

Carriers offer online member portals or apps so you can view your plan details and manage your benefits. Visit your carrier’s website for details. Contact our Member Services team by calling 1–855-456-0756 if you need help accessing the portal. 

What benefits can I use before my plan becomes active? 

You can start scheduling appointments for after your plan becomes active. You may also be able to complete Health Risk Assessments that earn you incentives from your carrier.  

When will I receive my plan ID card? 

You should receive your card seven to 10 business days after your plan is approved.  

If your plan is already active and you have not received your card, contact your carrier for help.   

How do I place an order from my carrier’s over-the-counter (OTC) catalog? 

If your plan includes credit for over-the-counter items like pain relievers, toothpaste, and vitamins, you may be able to submit an order through your carrier’s mobile app (if available). You can also contact an agent by phone or visit a participating retailer. If you don’t receive an OTC catalog automatically, you may need to request that one be sent to you. Not all plans include this benefit; check your plan details. 

How do I set up my fitness membership? 

You can confirm that you’re eligible for a fitness membership by checking your plan materials or reaching out to your carrier. If eligible, you can enroll in a fitness program through a participating location or online. Not all plans include this benefit; check your plan details or reach out to our Member Services team for assistance at 1–855-456-0756. 

How do I enroll in my mail order pharmacy? 

You can confirm that you’re eligible to use a mail order pharmacy for your prescriptions by checking your plan materials or reaching out to your carrier. If you’re eligible, your doctor will be able to transfer your prescription information to the mail order pharmacy. 

What preventive services are covered under my plan? 

Medicare Advantage plans cover all preventive services under original Medicare and may include additional services. Refer to your Summary of Benefits for a complete list or contact our Member Services team for assistance by calling 1–855-456-0756. 

How do I schedule an Annual Wellness Visit or vaccinations? 

Contact your healthcare provider’s office to schedule an appointment or vaccine. If you need help, you can get in touch with our Member Services team at 1–855-456-0756. 

What About Next Year? 

MA plans can change every year, and your needs will evolve as well. That’s why we encourage Medicare consumers to schedule an annual PlanFit Checkup. By reviewing your options with a GoHealth licensed insurance agent, you can make sure you’re still in the plan that’s best suited to your healthcare needs and financial situation. 

About GoHealth 

GoHealth is a leading health insurance marketplace and Medicare-focused digital health company. Enrolling in a health insurance plan can be confusing for customers, and the seemingly small differences between plans can lead to significant out-of-pocket costs or lack of access to critical medicines and even providers. GoHealth combines cutting-edge technology, data science, and deep industry expertise to build trusted relationships with consumers and match them with the healthcare policy and carrier that is right for them. Since its inception, GoHealth has enrolled millions of people in Medicare plans and individual and family plans. For more information, visit GoHealth.com.