Now accepting patients at our New Office in Merrifield (Lee Hwy.) for Telehealth and in-person appointments. Schedule a visit today.

4 Tips for Choosing a Plan During Insurance Enrollment Season

Autumn is officially here, and along with pumpkins, changing leaves, and cooler temperatures, it’s also enrollment season for health insurance. Open enrollment is a time to renew, change, or enroll in an insurance plan. 

At Prima Medicine, we understand how challenging it can be to select the right plan for your family, and we’re here to help. Our experienced providers offer comprehensive internal medicine services as well as urgent care for patients in Fairfax and South Riding, Virginia. And, if you’re a new patient, you can rest easy knowing we take most major insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid.

With different plan options to choose from, we want you to feel confident that you’re picking the right one for you. To help you make the best choice, we’ve put together our top four tips to consider when choosing a plan. 

1. Understand your plan options

One-size-fits-all doesn’t apply when it’s time to select your insurance plan. Regardless of whether this is your first time choosing a plan or if you’re considering making a change to your current coverage, it’s important to be sure you understand your options and compare the costs, benefits, and services of each plan. 

Take time to ensure you have a good grasp of what key insurance words and phrases mean, such as premium, deductible, coinsurance, and out-of-pocket maximum. If you’re eligible for Medicare, make sure you understand the different options and how they can affect your coverage.

2. Think about your health needs

It’s impossible to anticipate every health care need you may have over the next year. However, if you’re anticipating a major life change, such as the addition of a baby or a planned surgery, be sure to compare the differences in how different plans handle these needs, including out-of-pocket maximums.

You’ll also want to think about any chronic conditions you or a family member may have. At Prima Medicine, our team provides coverage for many health conditions in addition to wellness visits. Be sure to evaluate the differences between plans with these concerns in mind. 

3. Consider the importance of telehealth 

The COVID-19 global pandemic has brought telehealth to the forefront, but there are many reasons telehealth is a good option for many patients. Virtual visits make health care more manageable if you're trying to balance family schedules, work obligations, and other responsibilities.  

Look for a plan that covers virtual visits and a provider that offers the ability to meet with your doctor from the comfort and safety of your own home. At Prima Medicine, you can meet with your doctor to discuss health issues via your smartphone, tablet, or computer. We also offer curbside testing and lab results

4. Consider your primary care provider

Before making changes to your plan, verify that your primary care provider (PCP) is still part of your plan’s network. It’s especially important to look at this if you know you’ll be switching insurance companies or plans.  

Open enrollment season is also a good time to choose a PCP if you don’t already have one. At Prima Medicine, our team also offers preventive care to ensure your overall health and long-term wellness.

At Prima Medicine, your health is our primary concern. For high quality health care, book an appointment online or over the phone, or schedule a telehealth appointment today.

You Might Also Enjoy...

Here’s How Arthritis is Diagnosed

Are you wondering if that pain in your joint is caused by arthritis? You’ve got good reason to wonder, since nearly 25% of American adults are affected by this painful joint condition. Here’s a look at how arthritis is diagnosed and treated.

What to Expect from Chronic Care Management for Diabetes

If you’re among the millions of American adults living with diabetes, chronic care management (CCM) offers a way to reclaim control of your health by staying on top of your disease. Here’s a closer look at CCM and what you can expect.

4 Common Signs of a Vitamin D Deficiency

Your body needs the right amount of vitamin D to function properly. If you don’t have sufficient levels, your health can suffer. Here’s a closer look at this essential vitamin and four common signs you’re deficient.

Little-Known Benefits of Your Annual Physicals

Most people go to the doctor when they’re sick or injured, but what about when they’re healthy? Annual physicals can help keep you as healthy as possible and catch problems in their early stages. Read on to learn more.

When to Get Medical Help for Flu Symptoms

The flu affects millions of people each year. While most people recover without any issues, some people have a greater risk of developing flu-related complications. Here’s what you need to know about the flu and when to get help.