As the 2025 Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) approaches, Medicare members, prospects, and those aging into Medicare face crucial decisions about their healthcare coverage. To help seniors and their families navigate the complexities, The Sacramento Bee recently published a four-part series, “Mastering Medicare,” that offers valuable insights into understanding and maximizing benefits.
"Medicare isn’t one size fits all — seniors choosing a new Medicare plan should prioritize their specific needs and consider plans that offer a wide range of products and services that accommodate their lifestyle and budget," said Alex Uhm, vice president and general manager of Medicare at Blue Shield of California, who is featured throughout the series.
Whether you’re a current Medicare member, approaching your first enrollment or helping a loved one with their healthcare decisions, these articles are essential reading. Click on the titles below to access each article.
- "What you need to know before enrollment, from A to D and more" explains the fundamentals of Medicare, helping readers distinguish between the different parts of the program and how each one impacts their healthcare coverage. It’s a great starting point for anyone new to Medicare or those looking to refresh their knowledge.
- "Strategies for maximizing benefits, managing costs and filing appeals" covers everything from managing out-of-pocket costs to choosing the right plan for individual needs. It’s particularly helpful for those preparing for the Annual Enrollment Period.
- "An expert shares the key dates to mark in your calendar" outlines all the key dates and provides tips for ensuring you don’t miss any important deadlines. Staying on top of enrollment periods is crucial to avoid penalties and ensure continuous coverage.
- "Protect your health and your wallet with Medigap plans" explains how to maximize benefits with Medicare supplement insurance and choose the right plan for your needs.
For more information about Blue Shield's Medicare plans and resources, visit our Medicare Plans information page.