LITTLE ROCK -- Arkansas seniors have until Dec. 7 to select a Medicare Advantage plan for 2025.
"The annual enrollment period is now open with multiple dependable and affordable benefit options from Arkansas Blue Medicare, an affiliate of Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield, a trusted name in health insurance in Arkansas for more than 75 years," a news release from Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield said.
Arkansas Blue Medicare benefits for 2025 include the following:
Arkansas Blue Medicare is expanding its dental allowance to at least $3,000.
Members on the BlueMedicare Freedom Giveback (PPO) plan will continue to receive a $75 Part B giveback each month.
Several plans will include extra benefits like $0 post-acute care meals, fitness program memberships and in-home support services.
HMO and PPO members will have access to the Walmart Wellness Benefits Card. This benefit provides members $50-$155 each calendar quarter to spend on over-the-counter health-related items. Beneficiaries can shop at Walmart stores, online, via the Walmart app, by calling Walmart customer service, or via mail order.
BlueMedicare Independence (HMO) members may qualify for the Walmart Wellness Benefits Card for food and produce. This is a special supplemental benefit for the chronically ill (SSBCI) and is available to members diagnosed with a specified chronic illness. Beneficiaries will receive $25 each month to purchase approved healthy food and fresh produce. Members can shop at Walmart stores, as well as online and through the Walmart app for in-store pickup or delivery.
Most members can take advantage of 100-day prescription drug refills on Tier 1 and Tier 2 medications at no cost through our mail-order service.
"This year's annual enrollment period is going to be more important than ever. With so many changes to Medicare prescription drug coverage going into effect on Jan. 1, 2025, it's critical for Medicare Advantage beneficiaries to understand all the changes and how they may affect their specific health journey," Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield Lead Executive of Medicare Products Chris Vermeulen said in the release. "With my own mother on a similar journey, I'll be spending time with her to review all her options, so she finds the right Medicare Advantage plan for her needs and budget."
Arkansas Blue Medicare plans also offer supplemental benefits such as preventive and restorative dental with unlimited extractions, eye exams and eyewear, hearing exams and hearing aids, in-home support services, and a SilverSneakers fitness program membership.
When enrolling for coverage for 2025, it's important to avoid several common mistakes, the release said, including the following:
Be aware of deadlines to avoid penalties. The Medicare annual enrollment period ends Dec. 7 for coverage beginning Jan. 1, 2025.
Understand the differences between Medicare Part A, Part B, Part C, and Part D.
Take note of plan premiums, co-payments or coinsurances, and deductibles "to decide which plan is right for you personally and financially."
Ask for help.
"It can be a big help to review your Medicare plan options with a trusted expert," Matthew Vannatta, vice president of Government Programs, said in the release. "Don't be afraid to contact an insurance professional to help you navigate between the different plan costs and coverages."
For more information about Arkansas Blue, call 888-954-0020, visit arkansasbluecross.com/Medicare, or visit one of its ArkansasBlue Welcome Centers in Hot Springs, Fayetteville, Fort Smith, Jonesboro, Little Rock, Pine Bluff, and Rogers.