What should I know about Medicare Advantage mailers?

Around October 1, your mailbox may start filling up with mailings about all the great Medicare Advantage plans available and all the free stuff you can get if you call.

These are often broad mailings, so there is no guarantee the plan or benefits they describe are available where you live.

Medicare Advantage plans have defined service areas, which may cover one county or several.

The mailing also may not tell you whether your doctors are in the plan’s network.

And if you call, the person who answers may not know the plans and providers in your area.

Get local help before you make a change; it is critical to check what is actually available to you.

Source: Medicare.gov: Your health plan options

This general educational information is not individual plan advice. Plan availability and benefits vary by location and contract year.