Understand Your Medicare Coverage and Know Where to Fill the Gaps

by Natalie Stefan

Medicare is made up of several different parts, and understanding how each one works is key to protecting yourself from life’s unexpected health care costs. While Medicare provides essential coverage, knowing what each part includes, and what it doesn’t, can help you make more informed decisions about your care. The Parts of Medicare Explained Medicare Part APart A helps cover inpatient hospital stays, hospice care, and limited skilled nursing services following hospitalization. Most people are automatically enrolled in Part A when they apply for Medicare. If you’ve worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years, you may qualify for premium-free Part A coverage. Medicare Part BPart B covers medical services received outside of the hospital, including doctor visits,

Medicare Myths Debunked

by Natalie Stefan

Did you know that many people don’t have a clear understanding of how Medicare works? At Health Plans of America, we believe that having accurate information is the first step toward choosing the right coverage. Let’s clear up some of the most common myths about Medicare. Myth #1: Medicare Part B Is Free A common misconception is that Medicare Part B comes at no cost. In reality, Part B requires a monthly premium and also includes a deductible, copayments, and coinsurance just like other parts of Medicare. Myth #2: You Can Enroll in Medicare Anytime Medicare enrollment is limited to specific time periods. While there are certain qualifying situations that allow for Special Enrollment Periods, most people must enroll during

5 Smart Tips to Help You Save Money on Health Insurance

by Natalie Stefan

Many Americans worry about how they’ll cover the cost of medical care, and for good reason. Healthcare expenses can add up quickly without the right coverage. At Health Plans of America, our goal is to help you find a health insurance plan that fits both your needs and your budget. The good news? A few smart choices can make a big difference. Here are five practical tips to help you save on health insurance and healthcare costs. 1. Choose the Plan That Truly Fits Your Needs It’s tempting to judge a health insurance plan by its monthly premium alone, but the lowest price isn’t always the best value. Your family’s healthcare needs should guide your decision. Be sure to consider

Know These Four Tips Before You Pick a Medicare Plan

by Natalie Stefan

Ever wonder which Medicare plan is the right fit for you? Choosing coverage can feel overwhelming, especially with all the options and terminology involved. At Health Plans of America, we’ve broken the process down into four key tips to help you feel confident as you compare plans and make the choice that works best for your health and your wallet. Tip 1: Don’t Focus Only on the Premium It’s common for people to zero in on a plan’s monthly premium, but that number only tells part of the story. A plan with a low premium may come with higher out-of-pocket costs throughout the year, while a slightly higher premium might offer lower copays, deductibles, or coinsurance. When comparing plans, be

HMO vs. PPO: What’s the Difference?

by Natalie Stefan

HMOs, PPOs, EPOs… oh my! With so many types of health insurance plans out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Understanding what each plan offers, and the potential drawbacks, can help you make a confident, informed decision about your health coverage. With open enrollment just around the corner, now’s the perfect time to review your options. To make things easier, we’ve broken down the most common plan types with a quick list of pros and cons. HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) Pros: Cons: PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) Pros: Cons: POS (Point of Service) Pros: Cons: EPO (Exclusive Provider Organization) Pros: Cons: Finding the right health insurance plan can feel like a challenge, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Health

Tips for Choosing the Right Medicare Plan

by Natalie Stefan

Navigating Medicare can feel overwhelming at first — but it doesn’t have to be. The key is to start with what matters most to you: your health needs, prescription medications, how often you see your doctor, and your long-term health goals. Ask yourself: Does my current Medicare plan truly support the lifestyle I want? Health Plans of America offers helpful resources and guidance so you can make confident, informed decisions. Below is a quick guide to important factors to consider before enrolling in or changing your Medicare plan: 1. Look for Extra Benefits That Match Your Health Goals Original Medicare (Parts A and B) covers hospital and medical services, but it doesn’t include vision, dental, or hearing care. If these