How to Get the Most Out of Your Medicare Plan Year-Round

Ken Parson

Medicare isn’t just something to think about during enrollment season. In fact, once you’ve selected your plan, that’s when the real opportunity begins. Your Medicare coverage, especially if you're enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan — includes benefits that go far beyond doctor visits and hospital stays.

 

At Triangle Medicare Solutions, we want to help you do more than just choose the right plan, we’re here to help you use it to its fullest, all year long.

 

Know Your Benefits Inside and Out

 

Every Medicare plan comes with detailed documents, your Evidence of Coverage and Summary of Benefits. While they might not be exciting reading, they’re packed with important information about what’s covered and how to access it.

 

Some of the most overlooked benefits include:

  • Preventive services like screenings and wellness visits
  • Dental, vision, and hearing coverage
  • Fitness memberships (like SilverSneakers)
  • Telehealth visits for care from home
  • Over-the-counter (OTC) allowances for health items

In North Carolina, many Medicare Advantage plans offer these extras, and they can be a real boost to your health and your wallet. If you’re not sure what’s included in your plan, give us a call, we’ll walk you through it.

 

Stay on Top of Preventive Care and Screenings

 

One of the best ways to stay healthy and avoid higher costs later is by using your preventive benefits. These are usually covered at no cost to you, and include:

  • Annual wellness visits
  • Screenings like mammograms, colonoscopies, and bone density tests
  • Vaccines for flu, pneumonia, shingles, and more

Starting in 2026, insulin costs are also capped, and many vaccines are now free, big news for those managing chronic conditions. We recommend booking your wellness visits early in the year so you don’t miss out.

 

Use Your Prescription Drug Coverage Wisely

 

Your plan’s drug coverage isn’t just about having access; it’s also about managing costs.

 

Here’s how to make the most of it:

  • Check the formulary each year to see if your medications are still covered and at what cost.

  • Use preferred pharmacies or mail-order services to save money and time.

  • Talk with your pharmacist or provider about lower-cost alternatives or changes to your medication list.

Even if nothing’s changed with your health, it’s smart to do a medication review at least once a year.

 

Take Advantage of Extra Services and Support

 

Many Medicare Advantage plans offer valuable extras you may not be using, such as:

  • Dental cleanings and fillings
  • Eye exams and glasses
  • Hearing aids
  • Transportation to medical appointments
  • At-home health visits or telehealth check-ins

And you’re not alone. Programs like North Carolina’s State Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) offer free, unbiased help for Medicare questions. Combine that with local advisors like us, and you’ve got year-round support.

 

Review and Adjust if Life Changes

 

Life doesn’t wait for open enrollment. If something changes, like moving, losing coverage, or developing a new health condition, you might qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.

 

Also, if you qualify for Medicaid or Extra Help (LIS), you may be able to make changes more frequently. Not sure if you qualify? We’ll help you find out.

 

Connect with Local Experts All Year

 

Your Medicare plan isn’t just a card in your wallet, it’s your gateway to better health. Whether you’re dealing with a denied claim, changing doctors, or simply trying to understand your benefits, Triangle Medicare Solutions is here to help. We’re based right here in North Carolina, and we support our clients year-round, not just during enrollment season.

 

Take charge of your Medicare benefits. From preventive care to prescription savings and everything in between, we’ll help you make the most of your coverage. Contact Triangle Medicare Solutions today to schedule a Medicare checkup or ask us anything, no question is too small.