After open enrollment closes, take proactive steps to prepare for the new plan year. By organizing your benefit information now, you can avoid surprises, control costs, and make the most of your coverage.
Here are seven essential actions to take after open enrollment to help you start the year fully prepared.
Step 1: Review Your Plan Documents
Review your benefits plan documents regularly to fully understand your coverage, costs, and any annual limits. Confirm details on deductibles, copays, and voluntary benefits like dental or vision. Check for errors early to avoid surprises and ensure your benefits are accurately reflected.
Step 2: Verify Your Provider Network
Save on healthcare costs by choosing in-network providers. Out-of-network care often means higher copays or no coverage. Confirm your primary care physician, specialists, and local hospitals are in-network using your plan’s online directory. If you’ve moved or want to change doctors, select a provider who participates in your plan. Review your prescription coverage and pharmacy options as well to avoid unexpected charges. Taking these simple steps helps ensure you maximize your benefits and minimize out-of-pocket expenses.
Step 3: Complete Any Required Follow-Ups
After enrolling, be sure to complete any necessary follow-up steps, such as updating beneficiaries, submitting dependent documentation, or returning required forms, to ensure your coverage is finalized. Skipping these important actions can lead to delays or loss of benefits.
Step 4: Confirm You Received Your ID Cards
Each year, most health, dental, vision, and prescription plans issue new ID cards. Confirm you’ve received your card by mail or electronically. Keep physical cards in your wallet and save digital versions in your health plan’s app. Review your card to ensure your information is correct. If you haven’t received your card within a few weeks of your plan start date, contact Human Resources or your insurance provider. Having your card ready at appointments helps prevent delays and billing issues.
Step 5: Set Up Online Accounts and Mobile Apps
Most benefit providers offer secure online portals and mobile apps, enabling you to: view claims and deductible progress, find in-network providers and estimate costs, access digital ID cards, and utilize wellness resources such as nurse hotlines and mental health tools. Taking a few moments now to set up your access can help you save time and avoid hassles down the road.
Step 6: Schedule Preventative Care
Maximize your benefits by scheduling preventive care services, most at no additional cost to you. Annual physicals, recommended screenings, dental cleanings, and vision exams not only promote long-term health, but also help you avoid more serious issues later.
Preventive care is a smart way to get the most value from your coverage while supporting your well-being.
Step 7: Create a Benefits Budget
Take control of your benefits by reviewing anticipated expenses, such as premiums, copays, prescriptions, and other healthcare costs. Plan your use of flexible spending or health savings accounts, if elected, and consider setting aside funds each month for unexpected expenses. Establishing a benefits budget helps maximize your tax-advantaged accounts and minimize surprises throughout the year.
Conclusion
Open enrollment may be complete, but your next steps are just as important. Review your plan documents, verify your providers, set up your accounts, and schedule preventive care. These actions help you make informed, cost-effective health decisions and maximize your benefits throughout the year. For questions about your plan or available resources, contact your Human Resources or benefits team. Download the bulletin for more details.