GUEST COLUMN: Tips for choosing your health benefits for 2025

Many New Mexicans will be evaluating their health coverage plan options during this fall’s open enrollment season, and it’s no secret that choosing a health insurance plan can often feel overwhelming. Whether you have a new employer, are recently retired, or you are choosing a coverage plan for the very first time, it is important to know what to look for to find coverage that suits your individual needs and offers potential cost savings.

Enrollment timing• For people with employer coverage, open enrollment typically happens during a two- or three-week period between September and December, with next year’s benefits kicking in on Jan 1, 2025.

• For those eligible for Medicare, the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period runs from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7 each year. Coverage selections made during this window will take effect on Jan. 1, 2025.

• For anyone shopping for individual plans on the Health Insurance Marketplace, open enrollment began Nov. 1, 2024, and ends Jan. 15, 2025, in New Mexico. Enroll by Dec. 15 in order for your coverage to start on Jan. 1, 2025.

Here are several important tips to consider when choosing a plan that may help lead you to better health and cost savings:

1. Plan ahead. Compare the benefits, services and costs of plans available to you — including monthly premiums, deductibles, copays and other out-of-pocket costs.

2. Get to know the terms. Use resources like JustPlainClear.com to understand health care language.

3. Help prevent unexpected costs. Before choosing a plan, check if your doctor and pharmacy are in network, and make sure your specific medications will be covered next year by the plan you choose.

4. Explore mental health coverage. Physical and mental health are both important aspects of a person’s overall health and wellness. In addition to in-person mental health care options, you may have access to a large virtual network of therapists and psychiatrists. Some health insurers also have specially trained advocates available to help members find the right type of behavioral health care and other resources.

5. Look into specialty benefits. Additional benefits, such as dental, vision, hearing, financial protection or critical illness insurance are often available and may contribute to overall well-being.

6. Consider wellness programs. Many health plans offer incentives for taking healthier actions, such as completing a health survey, exercising or avoiding nicotine. Others provide real-time insights and personalized support to those living with common chronic conditions.

7. Embrace digital capabilities. If you’re busy or prefer connecting with a doctor from the convenience of your home, consider a plan that includes 24/7 virtual care. Digital health solutions for everything from wellness visits to weight loss and maternal health care are often available at uhc.com/news-articles/benefits-and-coverage/uhc-hub — so be sure your plan offers these capabilities.

For seniors, it’s crucial to review your Medicare coverage options carefully. There’s a lot to learn about Medicare and medicaremadeclear.com can help you understand the basics, the complexities and everything in between. For instance, while traditional Medicare doesn’t generally cover prescription drugs, Medicare Advantage plans often include prescription drug coverage, as well as additional benefits like dental, vision and hearing services. Visit uhc.com/medicare/medicare-education.html — an online resource with answers to questions about eligibility, plan choices, prescription coverage and more.