Tips For A Better Open Enrollment Season

What is Open Enrollment?

Open Enrollment is a specific period during which individuals can enroll in, make changes to, or terminate their health insurance plans. Outside of the Open Enrollment period, changes can typically only be made under specific circumstances, which are known as Qualifying Life Events (QLEs). For employer-sponsored health insurance in the U.S., the Open Enrollment period is generally once a year, and the specific dates and duration can vary by employer. During this time, employees can choose to enroll in a new health plan, switch plans, or make other adjustments to their existing coverage. The exact dates have varied over the years, but traditionally, it has started in the fall.

It’s essential to review plan options and make any necessary changes during the Open Enrollment period, as missing this window can leave individuals locked into their current plan or without coverage for the following year unless they experience a Qualifying Life Event. Providing accurate, informative, and timely materials to employees is essential for a successful Open Enrollment period.

When is Open Enrollment Season For 2024?

November 1, 2023 through December 15, 2023.

November 1st is typically the first day of Open Enrollment when employees can enroll, change, or re-enroll for your 2023/2024 Insurance Plans. Therefore, Open Enrollment Kits need to be prepared during the months of September and October to ensure that your clients and employees are aware of all changes, new plans and dates to enroll.

Get your Open Enrollment word out today through Print Tech’s expert and quality Open Enrollment printing, mailing, marketing, and branding services!! Print Tech works with many companies and insurance companies to deliver their Open Enrollment kits out in time.

Tips for a Better Open Enrollment

• Start Early: Don’t wait until the last minute. Begin reviewing your options as soon as they’re available so you have ample time to consider what’s best for you.
• Understand Your Current Coverage: Before making changes, review your current plan. What do you like about it? What do you wish was different?
• Assess Your Needs: Think about the past year. Did you need more medical care than you anticipated? Did you add family members? Any expected changes in the coming year, like planned surgeries or new prescriptions?
• Compare Costs Beyond Premiums: Look not only at the monthly premium but also at other costs such as deductibles, co-pays, and out-of-pocket maximums.
• Review the Network: Ensure your preferred doctors, specialists, and hospitals are in the plan’s network. Going out-of-network can be costly.
• Look into Additional Benefits: Some plans offer perks like telehealth services, wellness programs, or gym memberships.
• Read Up on Changes: Health plans can change from year to year. Pay attention to any modifications in the plan’s coverage, benefits, or network.
• Ask Questions: If you’re unsure about something, ask. Whether it’s your HR representative, a customer service rep from the insurance company, or a knowledgeable colleague, getting clarity is crucial.
• Utilize Available Tools: Many employers and marketplaces offer comparison tools to help you evaluate plan options side by side.
• Consider a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA): If eligible, these accounts can offer tax advantages for medical expenses.
• Stay Informed: If there are informational sessions, webinars, or workshops about the enrollment process or plan options, consider attending.
• Review Other Benefits: Open Enrollment might also be a time to look at other benefits, like dental, vision, life insurance, or disability coverage.
• Double-Check Enrollment Details: Before finalizing your choices, review your selections to ensure everything is accurate.
• Keep Documentation: Once enrolled, save any confirmation emails, documentation, or benefits summaries for your records.
• Set a Reminder for Next Year: It’s easy to forget about Open Enrollment, so set a reminder for yourself for next year to reassess and ensure you’re still getting the best coverage for your needs.

Your Trusted Open Enrollment Partner

For over 50 years Print Tech has been a trusted partner for our client’s printing, mailing, marketing, and branding needs. We provide the accuracy and attention to detail needed to print and deliver Open Enrollment and benefit information to your employees. Print Tech produces manuals, newsletters, handbooks, pocket folders, forms, labels, signs, calendars, and direct mail for your Open Enrollment process.

Our mailing and finishing services include addressing, postal processing, folding, inserting, packet assembly, and delivery to the U.S. Postal Service. A dedicated Print Tech representative is assigned to manage the details and deadlines of your Open Enrollment printing and mailing quickly and accurately.

We welcome the opportunity to provide insights, ideas, and best practices for your Open Enrollment Process. Ask your Print Tech Representative or call us at 412.963.1500 to learn more.