Plan Now for End-of-Year Healthcare Decisions

Review FSA, Medicare Choices

Welcome, October! It’s time to make sure you’re using up the dollars you’ve stashed in your 2017 Flexible Spending Account (FSA). Although employer plans vary, FSA expenses generally must occur no later than December 31. Schedule doctor visits before the end-of-year rush. Remember, too, that your FSA dollars can be used for prescription medications plus over-the-counter medications with a prescription.

Is it time to think about enrolling in Medicare (or changing coverage during this period?) The first time you can enroll is called your initial enrollment period. This period usually begins three months before the month you turn 65. Different parts of Medicare help cover specific services. Medicare part A (hospital insurance) covers inpatient hospital stays, care in a skilled nursing facility, hospice care and some home-healthcare. Medicare Part B (medical insurance) covers certain doctors’ services, outpatient care, medical supplies and preventive services. Visit www. Medicare.gov for details.

Source HealthCare.gov; Medicare.gov