First Steps

The following general information is being provided to help you to choose the best possible benefit plan for you or a loved one. Cigna offers prescription drug plans in all states. In the state of Arizona, an integrated medical and prescription drug product is available in certain counties. And, HealthSpring and Bravo Health sell Medicare Advantage plans in some states as well.

Use this checklist to make sure you have all the information you'll need to find a plan that best meets your needs:

Pharmacy coverage considerations

• Make a list of all your current medications.
• Visit the plan's formulary (drug list) to compare the medications each plan covers, and how much they cost.
• Check to see if your pharmacy is part of the plan's network.
• Compare the overall costs associated with each available plan. There are several to consider:
• Monthly premium amount
• Monthly medication costs
• What you'll pay after your yearly drug costs reach the coverage gap
• If the plan you are considering offers supplemental gap coverage beyond what is mandated by Health Care Reform
• What you'll pay after yearly costs reach the out-of-pocket limit
• If the plan has a deductible -- an amount you must pay yourself before the plan pays for services

Medical coverage considerations (for Medicare Advantage plans in Arizona)

Think about your current health and how that impacts your coverage needs.

• How important is it to have predictable medical expenses?
• Do you need a low or high level of financial protection from unexpected medical costs?
• Compare the costs associated with each plan. There are several costs to consider:
• Monthly premium amount
• Copays when you visit the doctor
• What you pay for hospital care and any coverage limits
• What you pay for other medical care such as skilled nursing, lab and X-ray services
• If the plan has deductibles that you must meet before the plan pays for services
• What your coverage for routine screenings will be
• Does the plan offer extra programs to add to your savings?
• Determine if dental coverage and vision and hearing coverage is offered
• Determine if the plan offers discounts or incentives on fitness and wellness programs