How to maximize the benefits of your 2022 Medicare Advantage Plan | Opinion

Doug Haaland
·2 min read

Now that we’re halfway into 2022, it’s important that people with Medicare re-evaluate what is included in their Medicare Advantage health plans to ensure they’re maximizing their coverage throughout the year.

While it’s common for Medicare Advantage members to use benefits such as coverage for doctor’s appointments, preventive screenings and vaccines, many plans offer additional benefits and individuals should look to take advantage of the innovative options that might be included in their plan, such as:

Transportation Benefits

Several health plans cover non-emergency medical transportation to and from doctor’s appointments. If transportation has been a problem for you, or you’d prefer to not drive, inquire with your health plan about transportation benefits in your area.

A page from a U.S. Medicare Handbook in Washington. The federal government is giving insurers who offer Medicare Advantage plans more leeway to pay for things they have not covered in the past.
A page from a U.S. Medicare Handbook in Washington. The federal government is giving insurers who offer Medicare Advantage plans more leeway to pay for things they have not covered in the past.

Fitness Programs

The Silver Sneakers health and fitness program is designed for individuals with Medicare. Members have access to 15,000 participating U.S. fitness locations which may have cardio equipment, pools, and free weights as well as fitness classes and social events. The program also includes yoga, walking groups and on-demand video classes.

COVID Care

In addition to the free tests offered by the government, some Medicare Advantage plans currently offer 14 days of home-delivered meals (up to 28 meals) as well as $0 copays for testing, treatments and vaccinations.

Doug Haaland
Doug Haaland

Insulin Savings

The price of insulin can be a barrier for the 3.3 million people with Medicare who use it. Fortunately, many plans offer a benefit to help members save money on insulin costs. For example, some Humana members pay no more than $35 for a 30-day supply of select insulins at all in-network pharmacies.

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These are just some of the benefits included in Medicare Advantage plans. If you’re currently enrolled in a plan, reach out to your agent or health plan to confirm what you’re eligible for so you can take advantage of these resources, as the only opportunity to change your plan outside of the annual election period is if you encounter certain events, like if you move or you lose other insurance coverage.

Humana is a Medicare Advantage HMO, HMO SNP, PPO, PPO, SNP and PFFS organization and a stand-alone PDP prescription drug plan with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in any Humana plan is dependent upon contract renewal.

Doug Haaland is the president of Humana Medicare for Tennessee.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Are you maximizing the benefits of your 2022 Medicare Advantage Plan?