CMS Plan Finder Falls Flat
In 2019 CMS launched its new Plan Finder tool as the new and improved version of its predecessor the Legacy Plan Finder. Despite the years of design, the tool seems to fail to provide users with the exact information they seek: plan options that meet their needs and takes into account prescription affordability.
As with any new technology and especially one that uses government systems, is going to naturally have issues, but since its 2019 launch the Medicare Plan Finder has not improved on the largest and most significant issues. The biggest issue that users face is not knowing if the plan options are actually their best option and when inputting prescription information, the system makes frequent mistakes on type of medication, quantity and pharmacy information. For those medications that are not pills, and are inhalers, gels, creams, and anything else that doesn’t fit in a pill bottle, the system sets a default quantity that is not logical to the medication. Now this isn’t a big deal if you notice, but if not, this can be a nightmare for people to correct and could impact the cost of a plan.
Finding your pharmacy is also tough as the Plan Finder does not make pharmacy information an easily accessible page. The Legacy Plan Finder would allow users to select a preferred versus standard pharmacy, but this new tool requires users to put in the work. The Plan Finder requires users to choose up to 5 pharmacy options in their area and then click on each one to see if they will accept the pending plan coverage on yet another page that refers to plan details. If you don’t find one that fits, users have to go back to the pharmacies page, delete all five options and select a new group to repeat the same process. This is also where the drug information gets cumbersome because each pharmacy is going to list medications differently and if consumers don’t fix it, they will end up with wonky cost estimates.
When it comes to finding a plan, the tool provides all plans available from the carriers in that area. Additionally Special Needs Plan filters were recently added, but they don’t reduce plan options, they only add to the mass output of plans available. Given the name of the tool, the Plan Finder is instead placing the burden on the consumer to sort through a huge range of plan options that may or may not meet their specific needs. Consumers can see all possible plans but are not guided to a plan that will be a smart choice. The platform is clunky and users are unable to toggle between pages without losing information or starting over, frustrating users.
CMS is aware of the challenges the new tool faces, stating that it will update issues in real time and through user feedback. The only issue with that is what happens to the Medicare beneficiaries who have to go through this painstaking process and could very likely end up with the wrong plan for their needs. Due to enrollment periods, users will have to wait until the next enrollment period to fix their plan while grappling with the possibility of medication issues. Medicare is complex and even healthcare professionals are baffled on how to navigate the system. Tools are supposed to make this process easier and provide a level of assurance that users need, especially given the financial implications of making a mistake and not having full coverage.
If you are looking for assurance in selecting a Medicare plan that will fit your needs, our team at Doctor’s Choice uses the MedicareCheckup plan finder created to meet your needs. The tool is navigable as a lay person, providing a list of plan options customized based on your location, lifestyle, conditions, medications, finances, and other specific circumstances. Additionally if you want the assurance that you’re making the right choice, you can speak with a broker who will guide you through the process, answer your questions and enroll you in the plan. Even after you’re enrolled, we will keep you updated with any changes to your plan as well as checking in during enrollment periods so you can change plans if you’re not happy. We take the weight of this responsibility off your plate so you can get the coverage you need while living the life you deserve. This is a lesson that small businesses have agility and innovation that government run programs do not.
Schedule a consultation today and rest assured you can find the right plan with Doctor’s Choice.