It’s the time of year for Wyoming consumers to evaluate their health insurance choices for 2020. The Wyoming Insurance Department advises all consumers to be aware of the open enrollment periods for both Medicare and the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace.

“Wyomingites getting health insurance through their employer should check with their human resources contact to make certain of open enrollment dates for that particular employer group,” the insurance department says. Medicare Open Enrollment runs from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7. During this time, people with Medicare can change their Medicare health plans and prescription drug coverage for the following year.

“Wyoming Medicare beneficiaries should review their health care needs for the upcoming year and determine if changes to their current coverage are necessary,” the department advises. “Plan costs, coverages, and drug prescriptions can change each year. Make sure your plan still meets your needs and budget.”

Trained counselors across the state with the Wyoming State Health Insurance Information Program are availble to provide free help in answering questions about Medicare, Medicaid, Medigap and long-term care insurance. To reach a WSHIIP counselor, call 1-800-856-4398.

Meanwhile, open enrollment for the ACA Health Insurance Marketplace will run from Friday, Nov. 1 to Sunday, Dec. 15 for coverage that begins Jan. 1.

“Whether you are renewing a plan or you are a new enrollee, the Open Enrollment periods are an opportunity to evaluate your insurance coverage,” the insurance department said, adding, “It is very important for Wyomingites who receive their insurance through Marketplace to re-enroll during Open Enrollment to avoid any break in coverage. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) remains in place and subsidized insurance coverage is still available for those who qualify.”

To shop for plans, visit www.HealthCare.gov.

“Be certain that you are looking at the official government site and not a look-a-like imposter site,” the department warns, adding, “Remember: Always look for official government seals, logos, and websites.”

Licensed insurance agents may advise you what plan is best for you. If you decide to purchase insurance off the Marketplace or Exchange, be a wise consumer and understand what you are purchasing. Be especially cautious of Off-Exchange plans that seem too good to be true. Ask about exclusions, provider networks, and hidden costs in Off-Exchange plans.

If you receive health insurance through an employer, consider the following before selecting a coverage plan:

• Look closely for changes: Don’t automatically renew the option you had before; employer plans may have changed since the last Open Enrollment.
• Take advantage of wellness incentives: Your employer may offer a wellness program that includes money-saving incentives for healthy behaviors such as exercising regularly or not smoking.
• Check out tax-free savings: You may be eligible to open a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or a health savings account (HSA).

If you are self-employed or if your employer doesn’t offer coverage, you may face challenges in finding and keeping health insurance, but you still have choices. For instance, consider being added to your spouse’s plan or purchase private insurance to customize to your lifestyle health, and budget.

If you are unemployed, now is a good time to review your decision. Also check whether you or your family might be eligible for Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).

In addition to insurance agents, the federal government also has trained navigators and certified assisters in Wyoming to help you at no cost. To find help, visit www.HealthCare.gov or dial 211 in Wyoming or 888-425-7138 elsewhere.