FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Oct. 15, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Open enrollment for Medicare Advantage begins each year from October 15 to December 7. You will know open enrollment has arrived when you see countless radio and commercial ads about $0 Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Supplemental Insurance. Advantage plans have gained popularity in the past few years for having one plan that includes doctor visits, Medicare Part D, Dental, Vision, Hearing, and in some cases a free gym membership. Plus, it helps that most Medicare Advantage plans have no monthly premium! There are endless options of Medicare Advantage plans; however, it can be difficult and overwhelming to figure out which plan is best. Follow these 4 tips for having a successful open enrollment!

1. Check if your physician or local hospital is in the network. You don't want to be stuck with a plan that your doctors don't accept. If you visit a doctor that is out of network, you may pay a lot out of pocket and in some cases, your services may be denied coverage.
2. Have a list of your prescriptions handy. Speak to an agent or broker and have them check how much your co-payment will be for your drugs. Medicare Advantage plans work on a tier system, which can vary in pricing from carrier to carrier.
3. Don't wait last minute! Most individuals wait until the last week of open enrollment to choose a plan. It's best to start shopping October 15 and apply for a plan no later than Thanksgiving. This would give you adequate time to review the materials to ensure you made the right decision.
4. Use an online agency to assist you with the different plans. www.MedicareMedics.com is a great place to start. Insurance Medics; a full service brokerage, allows you to research online. Online researching not your forte? Call them at (866) 396-9140. They can assist with finding the right plan. Either way, it gives you the comfort to shop from home, eliminates the need to go to seminars, and/or have an agent come to your home and drink up your coffee.

Open enrollment comes once a year, so take full advantage. Follow the above tips to have a successful open enrollment and to be confident in the plan you chose.

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