If you are 65 or older, you may be receiving a lot of information about Medicare as the annual election period approaches. This period, which runs from October 15 to December 7, is when eligible individuals can review and change their Medicare plans. UCHealth has partnered with an independent insurance broker to help patients understand their options.
Medicare eligibility typically includes those aged 65 and older, as well as some younger people with disabilities or specific health needs like dialysis. Some Medicare plans, such as Parts C and D, require re-enrollment each year. Reviewing available plans during the election period allows individuals to update their coverage if needed.
Medicare consists of four parts: Part A covers inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facilities, hospice, and home health care. Part B covers outpatient services such as doctor visits and preventive care. Part C refers to Medicare Advantage Plans offered by private insurers that combine Parts A and B—and often Part D—into a single plan that may also include additional benefits like vision or dental coverage. Part D focuses on prescription drug coverage.
Individuals have several options for structuring their Medicare coverage. Original Medicare includes Parts A and B; it generally requires patients to pay coinsurance for services and allows them to visit any provider accepting Medicare. Many choose to add a Prescription Drug Plan or purchase supplemental insurance (Medigap) from private companies to cover extra costs not included in Original Medicare. Medigap does not usually cover dental, vision, or prescription drugs.
Alternatively, Medicare Advantage (Part C) is available through private insurers approved by Medicare. These plans often involve fixed copays instead of coinsurance but may limit provider choices due to network restrictions. Some plans offer extra benefits tailored for people with certain health conditions.
UCHealth offers resources for those navigating these decisions. “If you’re feeling overwhelmed in making Medicare decisions, you’re not alone,” the organization states. “UCHealth aims to provide patients with easy access to resources, helping them navigate the process and understand what is covered, so they have all the necessary information to choose a plan that suits their needs.” Patients can compare local plans online or get assistance from the independent broker UCHealth works with.
In Larimer and Weld counties, UCHealth Community Health Improvement serves as a site for Colorado’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), providing free counseling through the Aspen Club. Counselors help answer questions about benefits objectively.
Additional tools are available through government resources such as the official Medicare website, an eligibility tool, an ebook about coverage options, and the “What’s Covered” app on mobile platforms that lets users check if specific doctors or services are included under their plan.
Colorado’s SHIP program also provides free health benefits counseling statewide; more information can be obtained by calling 1-888-696-7213.
