Medicare can feel confusing, especially when comparing plan costs, provider networks, prescription coverage, and extra benefits. Use these quick dos and don’ts to help make a more informed choice.

🟢 DO: Check that your doctors, hospitals, and specialists are in-network before you enroll in a plan.  

When you see an in-network provider, you’ll likely pay much less—if anything—out of pocket.  

🔵 At Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island (BCBSRI), our health plans are built by Rhode Islanders, for Rhode Islanders. We’re proud to have the strongest provider network of any Rhode Island HMO Medicare Advantage plans, including 12,000 providers and all Rhode Island hospitals. This can help you find care close to home and consistently see the doctors you know and trust.  

You can check to see if your provider is in our network by using our provider finder tool. You can search by name, location, or specialty—just be sure to keep BlueCHiP for Medicare (All Plans) selected in the plan dropdown. 
 

🔴 DON’T: Pick a plan based on monthly premiums alone. Lower premiums could mean higher out-of-pocket costs later.

A low- or no-cost plan may seem enticing, but it may not have the coverage you need to keep your healthcare affordable over time. For example, a plan with a $0 premium may cost less each month, but it's important to consider your total healthcare costs—not just your monthly premium. If you experience an unexpected health issue and/or need frequent medical care, prescription drugs, or hospital services, a $0 plan’s higher copays and cost-sharing could add up quickly and cost you more in the long run.  
 

🟢 DO: Understand what is—and isn’t—covered by original Medicare.

Only Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance) are offered by the federal government. To get added coverage, you can enroll in Part C (Medicare Advantage), which combines A + B and often includes drug coverage and additional benefits. Or, depending on your needs and circumstances, you may find that Original Medicare (Parts A and B) combined with separate Medicare Supplement (Medigap) and Part D prescription drug plans is a better fit.

🔵At BCBSRI, all our Medicare Advantage plans cover the following services:

• $0 copays for annual wellness visits and preventive screenings  
• $0 preventive, in-network dental coverage that’s accepted by 9 out of 10 dental providers in Rhode Island. It’s easy to use—just show your BCBSRI card at your visit.
• $0 annual vision and hearing exams, plus an allowance for eyewear  
• $0 copays on many generic drugs (plus no deductible for most generics)  
• A monthly fitness center membership starting at $0

Our Medicare Supplement plans—Plan 65—include several options that can cover many of your deductibles and copays, which can help limit your out-of-pocket expenses. They also let you see any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare without a referral—making them popular options for those who travel frequently. Additionally, Plan 65 options can easily be paired with the purchase of our dental and prescription drug coverage. 
 

🔴 DON’T: Set it and forget it.

Plans often renew automatically each year, but there could be other options that fit you better—especially if your health has changed. Make sure your doctors are still in-network and that your current plan still meets your needs. Take note of any health, income, or lifestyle changes that could impact your healthcare decisions. You can review this information with our team.

🟢 DO: Know your eligibility.

If you’re a U.S. citizen or permanent resident of the U.S., you’re eligible for Medicare when:

• You’re age 65 or older, or
• You’ve received disability benefits from the Social Security Administration or the Railroad Retirement Board for at least 24 months

🔵 At BCBSRI, we have additional plan options for those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid or receive a Low-Income Subsidy (Extra Help)

• BlueRI for Duals (HMO D-SNP) gives those who qualify for Medicare + Medicaid the most $0 benefits that we offer, along with a Health Navigator to answer questions, help with paperwork and appointments, and much more.
• BlueCHiP for Medicare Access (HMO-POS) offers a more affordable range of benefits as well as a $0 premium¹ for those who qualify for Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy).  

🔴 DON’T: Miss the opportunity to apply.

Enrolling late can mean penalties. Unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period, you must make Medicare enrollment changes during the Annual Enrollment Period, October 15-December 7. 
 

🟢 DO: Know where to learn more.

You don’t have to navigate this decision alone. We have resources that can help.

🔵 At BCBSRI, we know that everyone’s needs, preferences, and questions are different. That’s why we connect you with local Medicare representatives who know Rhode Island and understand the healthcare system here.

And because some conversations are better in person (especially if you have multiple questions that require thorough responses), we’re happy to meet with you face to face at any of our five Your Blue Store locations across the state.  

You’ve got this!  

If you still have questions, check out our FAQ page, call (401) 277-2958, or stop by Your Blue Store—no appointment needed.

Meeting with someone about enrolling in a plan? Bring this checklist with you. Writing down your healthcare needs and preferences ahead of time can help make the conversation more productive.

Feeling confident? Great—now you’re ready to enroll when the time is right!