IS YOUR MEDICARE PLAN NOT WORKING FOR YOU?

A SPECIAL ELECTION PERIOD MAY JUST BE ABLE TO HELP YOU OUT. LET'S TALK ABOUT SPECIAL ELECTION PERIOD'S OR FOR SHORT SEP'S

Francoise Mueller

4/13/20263 min read

Stuck in a Medicare Plan That’s Not Working? You May Have Options

Many people believe they’re locked into their Medicare plan for the entire year—but that’s not always the case.

If your current coverage isn’t meeting your needs, you may qualify for a Medicare Special Election Period (SEP)—allowing you to make changes outside of the usual enrollment periods.

What Is a Special Election Period (SEP)?

A Special Election Period is triggered by certain life events that allow you to adjust your Medicare coverage.

You may qualify if you:

  • Move to a new address

  • Lose employer or union coverage

  • Qualify for Medicaid or Extra Help

  • Are affected by a FEMA-declared emergency

  • Enter or leave a care facility

  • Experience plan changes

  • Have certain chronic conditions

  • Recently became eligible for Medicare

Options You May Not Know About

  • 5-Star Medicare Plans
    You can switch into a 5-star rated plan once per year, even outside normal enrollment periods.

  • Additional Options for Veterans
    Many veterans don’t realize they can combine VA healthcare with Medicare.

    While VA coverage is considered

    creditable for prescription drugs (Part D), it does not always replace the need for Medicare coverage.

    Some Medicare Advantage plans may offer:

    • Dental, vision, and hearing benefits not commonly available through the VA

    • Part B premium reductions (“giveback” benefits) in certain areas

    • Broader access to non-VA providers

  • Supplement vs. Medicare Advantage — Is Cost Matching Your Needs?
    Many people are enrolled in Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans that come with higher monthly premiums.

    These plans can be a strong fit for individuals who:

    • Use healthcare frequently

    • Want very predictable out-of-pocket costs

    • Prefer maximum provider flexibility

    However, if you’re

    generally healthy, rarely visit the doctor, and take few medications, you may be paying more than necessary for coverage you’re not fully using.

    In some cases, Medicare Advantage plans may offer:

    • $0 monthly premiums (plans vary by area)

    • Built-in drug coverage

    • Additional benefits like dental, vision, and hearing

    The key is making sure your coverage aligns with your

    actual health needs and budget.

Signs It May Be Time to Review Your Plan

  • High monthly premiums or out-of-pocket costs

  • Prescriptions not covered well

  • Doctors no longer in-network

  • Too many restrictions or referrals

  • Changes in your health

How I Help

As a licensed independent senior benefits consultant with 26 years of experience serving clients across the country, I provide:

  • One-on-one, personalized plan reviews

  • Guidance on what your options may be based on your situation

  • Clear, pressure-free education so you can make an informed decision

There is no obligation, and reviewing your options does not change your current plan unless you choose to make a change.

Let’s Connect

If your plan isn’t working the way it should, you may have more options than you think.

Call/Text: 808-728-7607
Message me here
https://ohanamedicare.org

Compliance Disclosure

This is for Educational purpose's only. A licensed insurance agent/producer will not contact you.

I provide educational information and personalized, one-on-one service to help you understand your Medicare options. There is no obligation to enroll, and your current coverage will not change unless you choose to make a change.

I do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently, I represent multiple organizations which offer multiple products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.

Enrollment in a plan may be limited to certain times of the year unless you qualify for a Special Election Period