Navigating Health Plan Changes during Open Enrollment: A Challenge or Opportunity?

As a retired federal employee, I am eligible to participate in the Federal Employees Health Benefits program (FEHB) and receive Medicare part A coverage. My current health benefits plan is BCBS Standard (106), which is self plus one. I am considering switching to GEHA High (313) as a way to save money on my healthcare expenses. However, before making the switch, I am wondering if it will be a simple process or if there are any additional considerations I should be aware of.

One of the advantages of the FEHB program is that it allows participants to switch from one health benefits plan to another during the annual Open Enrollment season. This means that I can make any necessary changes to my coverage every year if I want to.

It’s also worth noting that according to data from NARFE (the National Active and Retiree Employees Association), many retirees choose not to enroll in Medicare part B because they already have adequate coverage through their FEHB plan and other sources.

As a resident expert on retirement and the federal government at Federal Times, Reg Jones has seen firsthand how the FEHB program works and what options are available for retirees like myself. He recommends carefully considering all of my options before making any decisions about my healthcare coverage, especially when it comes to switching between plans.