October 08, 2024
Medicare’s annual enrollment period (AEP) is here. As you choose your Medicare coverage for 2025, you’ll likely notice some big changes in Medicare plans across the nation. These changes are coming in response to financial headwinds facing the industry due in part to dramatically rising health care costs, increased member utilization and changing national policies.
Plans are responding to these headwinds in various ways, and some health plans are even choosing to leave the Medicare Advantage market entirely. Regence isn’t immune to these industry challenges, and we’ve made big changes to our 2025 plan offerings. It’s very important for you to pay close attention to your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) document so you aren’t surprised by any changes on Jan. 1, 2025.
As long as your Regence plan is renewing next year, you can stay on your current plan without doing anything. If you choose a Regence Medicare Advantage plan for 2025, you can count on:
If you’re enrolled in Medicare, you can sign up or switch to a Medicare Advantage plan during AEP, which runs Oct. 15 to Dec. 7. Your 2025 plan would be effective Jan. 1.
Before choosing a plan, it’s important to know the differences between HMO and PPO plans so you can choose the plan that’s right for you.
HMO plans are budget-friendly with predictable out-of-pocket costs. Our HMO plans offer patient-centered care, which allows your primary care provider to coordinate your care within a local provider network. However, some services may require a referral.
PPO plans give you the flexibility to see any doctor or specialist who accepts Medicare, in or out of network, without a referral. You’ll also have access to a nationwide PPO network so you can get in-network coverage when you’re away from home.
Simplify your life by having your hospital, doctor and prescription coverage all in one budget-friendly plan. Plus, our plans include extra benefits like:
We continue to offer Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans that cover costs beyond Original Medicare coverage. These plans also include $0 membership to the Silver&Fit program and all its features.
For more information and to see all plans offered in your area, go to regence.com/medicare.
Regardless of the plan, all members have access to additional resources and support at no additional cost. This includes the Regence mobile app and personalized online member portal, along with the Advice24 nurse line that offers 24/7 access to a registered nurse, via computer or mobile device.
Current members can call the number on the back of their member ID card with questions about their Medicare Advantage plans or 2025 options. Customer Service can be reached 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. seven days a week from Oct. 1 through March 31; otherwise, hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday.
If you’re not a member, but have questions about our plans, call our Regence Medicare plan advisors at 1-844-REGENCE (1-844-734-3623) (TTY: 711) 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday or visit regence.com/medicare/how-to-pick-plans for a list of plans to consider.
American Specialty Health is a separate company that provides discount wellness programs.
The Silver&Fit program is provided by American Specialty Health Fitness, Inc. (ASH Fitness), a subsidiary of American Specialty Health Incorporated (ASH). Silver&Fit is a registered trademark of ASH and used with permission herein. Participating facilities and fitness chains may vary by location and are subject to change.
Plan features and availability may vary by service area. Regence is an HMO/PPO plan with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in Regence depends on contract renewal. Out-of-network/non-contracted providers are under no obligation to treat Regence members, except in emergency situations. Please call our Customer Service number or see your Evidence of Coverage for more information, including the cost-sharing that applies to out-of-network services.