How to Maximize Your Medicare Plan Benefits This Year

Medicare isn’t just about signing up—it’s about making sure you’re getting the most out of your plan all year long. Whether you’re enrolled in Original Medicare, a Medicare Advantage plan, or a Supplement plan, here are smart ways to take full advantage of your benefits in 2025.

✅ 1. Schedule Your Annual Wellness Visit

Medicare covers one free wellness visit every year. This is a great time to:

• Review your health history
  
  

• Discuss preventive screenings
  
  

• Create a personalized wellness plan
  
  

💡 Tip: This visit is different from a full physical—but it’s still valuable for catching issues early.

🦷👁️👂 2. Use Extra Benefits (If You Have Them)

If you're on a Medicare Advantage plan, check for included extras like:

• Dental cleanings and X-rays
  
  

• Vision exams and glasses
  
  

• Hearing tests and hearing aid discounts
  
  

• Gym memberships (SilverSneakers, etc.)
  
  

• Over-the-counter allowances
  
  

💡 Tip: Many people forget to use these before they expire—set reminders!

💊 3. Review Your Prescription Drug Coverage

Drug formularies (covered medications) can change every year.

• Make sure your prescriptions are still covered
  
  

• Check if you could save by switching to generics
  
  

• Compare pharmacy pricing in-network vs. out-of-network
  
  

💡 Tip: Use your plan’s online portal or talk to your pharmacist about savings.

💻 4. Set Up Your Online Account

Most Medicare plans offer an online member portal where you can:

• Track claims
  
  

• View your benefits
  
  

• Print your ID card
  
  

• Contact customer service
  
  

• Manage prescriptions
  
  

💡 Tip: Bookmark your portal and log in regularly to avoid surprises.

📅 5. Know Your Important Dates

- Open Enrollment: October 15 – December 7
- Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment: January 1 – March 31
- Special Enrollment Periods (if you move, retire, lose employer coverage, etc.)

💡 Tip: Put these dates in your calendar now so you don’t miss a chance to make changes.

🧾 6. Track Your Out-of-Pocket Spending

Even if you have great coverage, it’s good to track your:

• Deductibles
  
  

• Copays
  
  

• Maximum out-of-pocket limit (for Medicare Advantage)
  
  

💡 Tip: Once you hit your max out-of-pocket, your plan covers 100% for the rest of the year.

📞 7. Call Your Plan and Ask Questions

If you’re unsure about coverage, referrals, or a bill you received—ask! Medicare plan representatives are there to help.

💡 Tip: Write down your questions ahead of time so you don’t forget during the call.

🎯 Bottom Line

Your Medicare plan offers more than you might realize—but only if you use it. A little planning now can lead to better health, fewer bills, and more confidence all year long.

🗓️ Need help understanding your plan or switching to one that fits better?

👉 Book Your Free Medicare Benefits Review
We’ll help you uncover hidden benefits, cut costs, and make Medicare work for you.