Do your research on Medicare enrollment

Consumers continually look for ways to save money, whether it's a sale item at the supermarket or a discount on clothing. However, people often forget that there are also easy ways they may be able to cut their health care costs without compromising quality or care.

This is especially true during the Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug Plan Annual Election Period from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7, when people with Medicare in Chicago and throughout the country will select and enroll in Medicare plans that will affect their lives, and their health, over the next year.

When looking for ways to maximize your health care dollars, consider the following options:

• Comparison Shop: Similar to scouring the web for deals, use online resources to research Medicare plans that provide the most savings based on your health care needs and family budget. Websites are good places to start. For 2017 Medicare plan information, you can also call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

• Prescription Drugs -- Research Rxs: There are several ways you may be able to lower your prescription drug costs without affecting the quality of your treatment, including making sure the medications you take are covered by the plan you choose; opting for generics over brand-name drugs and using a mail-order pharmacy, when possible, to get a three-month drug supply, often at a lower price than the retail cost.

• Mind the Math: Remember that brand-name drugs are generally more expensive than generics.

Being a savvy shopper takes research, so give yourself time this Medicare annual enrollment season to review Medicare plans that meet your health care needs and offer the best value. This will ensure you are making the most of your health care dollars.

Neal Fischer, Regional Medical Director

Humana

Chicago