SEATTLE — Millions of Americans will be selecting their healthcare coverage this fall during the annual open enrollment season.
“The time of year when we transition from iced coffee to hot coffee is also open enrollment season,” said Carmen Cooper, vice president of sales and account management, UnitedHealthcare of Washington. “It’s also the time where you can evaluate your different options for health insurance, whether it’s adding or changing or dropping coverage for you or your dependents.”
Research shows more than half of millennials, now the largest group in the workforce, don't understand their benefit selections. This can cause people to miss out on plans that might better suit their needs and offer potential cost savings.
To better understand your options, JustPlainClear.com offers a glossary with common acronyms and words you’ll see during open enrollment. If you’re a Medicare member or a caregiver, MedicareMadeClear.com can help you learn the basics, the complexities and everything in between.
Cooper says it’s important to think about your healthcare needs in 2025 before making a decision for coverage.
“What’s worked for you this past year isn’t necessarily what’s going to work for you in the coming year,” she said.
If you have employer-sponsored coverage, check with your employer to find out when open enrollment is for your company. It’s generally a two to three-week period in the fall. Open enrollment for Medicare coverage is October 15 through December 7.
As you’re evaluating your options, Cooper says it’s important to:
- Plan ahead: Consider what medical needs you need to plan for in 2025, including pregnancies and potential procedures, and ensure your doctors are in-network.
- Embrace the digital world: Many insurance providers, including UnitedHealthcare, offer mental health and wellness resources and virtual visits online.
“Frequently you can actually be incentivized just for doing stuff you do already, like tracking your steps or tracking your sleep,” Cooper said.
- Don’t forget about specialty benefits: Things like oral health and eye care are part of your overall health. Look at all coverage options available to you.
For more information, visit UHCOpenEnrollment.com for tips, resources and information on plans in your area.
Sponsored by UnitedHealthcare
Segment Producer Suzie Wiley. Watch New Day Northwest at 11 a.m. weekdays on KING 5 and streaming live on KING5.com. Contact New Day.