Getting ready for Medicare can feel overwhelming. With different parts, plan options and deadlines to consider, it can be hard to know where to start.
As you prepare to enroll, taking time to compare your options can help you choose coverage that fits your needs and budget. TRS has resources to help you understand your choices and make an informed decision.
Keep in mind: you paid into the TRS-Care health fund your entire career. This is a benefit you’ve already invested in and earned, so we encourage you to closely evaluate our plan against others.
Considerations
Your monthly premium is part of what you need to consider, but it's not the only thing.
Low premiums usually mean higher costs elsewhere. Paying more up-front through your premium means you may have lower deductible and affordable copays. You pay less when you use health care, making costs more predictable.
Zero-dollar premiums might mean...
- Fewer benefits or a higher annual deductible
- Higher coinsurance or copays
- Bigger maximum out-of-pocket
- Higher rate for hospital stays
And look carefully at the prescription plan, including what coinsurance and copays you must pay to get your prescriptions. Make sure your plan covers drugs you currently take and that the plan you choose covers specialty medications.
Questions to Ask as You Compare
-
What will I pay when I see my primary care provider, specialist or for prescriptions?
-
Do I have to pay an additional premium for prescription coverage (Part D)?
-
What is the maximum cost I would pay for healthcare in a year?
-
What happens if my doctor is out of network?
-
What other benefits does the monthly premium include?
Use TRS’ Resources
We have several resources that can directly help you make a decision.
TRS-Care Medicare Advantage vs. Other Market Plans
Quick video showing you side-by-side comparisons of TRS-Care Medicare Advantage vs. traditional Medicare plans.
Medicare Comparison Worksheet
Use the front and back sides of our Medicare comparison worksheet to help you discuss options with your broker.
Are You Turning 65 Soon?
The Turning 65 webpage walks you through the steps of enrolling in Medicare and includes definitions for the different "parts" of Medicare.
Connect With Us
There are several ways you can connect with us to ask all the Medicare questions you may have before you make a decision.
- Chat with us in MyTRS! You can directly message a TRS Health counselor through your secure portal. They will get back to you within a business day.
- Sign up for a TRS-Care Medicare Advantage & You quarterly webinar that will walk you through how to enroll, how much the plan costs and the included benefits. There is a session coming up on Oct. 28, 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. CT.
- Call TRS Health at 1-888-237-6762 to speak with a counselor (Monday – Friday 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. CT).
