The start of a new year is the perfect time to make sure you’re getting the most out of your Medicare coverage. For Lehigh Valley residents, understanding your plan and taking proactive steps can save you money, improve access to care, and help you stay on top of your health in 2026.
Here are actionable tips to maximize your Medicare benefits in the new year.
Your Current Medicare Coverage
Check Your Plan’s Benefits and Limitations
Even if you’re happy with your current plan, it’s important to review:
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Premiums, deductibles, and copays
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Coverage for your prescription medications
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Access to your preferred doctors and hospitals
Plans can change annually, and reviewing your coverage ensures you’re not missing out on potential benefits or savings.
Confirm Provider Networks
Medicare Advantage plans may update provider networks each year. Make sure your preferred Lehigh Valley doctors and local hospitals—including Allentown, Bethlehem, and Easton—are still in-network to avoid surprise out-of-pocket costs.
Take Advantage of Preventive Services
Use Free or Low-Cost Screenings
Medicare covers a wide range of preventive services at no cost, including:
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Annual wellness visits
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Blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes screenings
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Vaccinations, including flu and COVID-19 boosters
Scheduling these visits early in the year can help you catch health issues before they become more serious.
Schedule Routine Check-Ups
Even if you feel healthy, regular check-ups allow your provider to track changes and recommend services covered by Medicare, helping you make the most of your benefits.
Review Your Prescription Drug Coverage
Check Your Part D Formulary
Medicare Part D and Medicare Advantage plans with drug coverage can change their formularies annually. Verify that:
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Your medications are still covered
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You understand any tier changes or prior authorizations
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Your pharmacy is in-network
Consider Mail-Order or 90-Day Supplies
Many plans offer cost savings when you order medications in 90-day supplies or use mail-order pharmacies. This can reduce trips to the pharmacy and help manage your healthcare budget.
Take Advantage of Extra Benefits
Explore Additional Plan Perks
Many Medicare Advantage plans include extra benefits such as:
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Dental, vision, or hearing coverage
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Fitness programs or gym memberships
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Telehealth services
Using these extras can improve your health and overall quality of life while staying within your plan’s coverage.
Utilize Wellness Programs
Some plans offer wellness incentives, discounts, or preventative programs. Reviewing these options can help you take advantage of services designed to support your health year-round.
Work With a Local Medicare Advisor
Personalized Guidance for Lehigh Valley Residents
Medicare rules and plan options can be complex. Working with a local Medicare advisor ensures that your review is tailored to:
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Plans available in Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton, and the surrounding Lehigh Valley area
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Your specific medications, providers, and healthcare needs
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Opportunities to save money or access additional benefits
Make the Most of Your Medicare Coverage
An advisor can guide you through plan changes, review your prescriptions, and answer questions about preventive services, giving you peace of mind as you enter the new year.
Take Action Early in the Year
The earlier you review your Medicare coverage, the more options you have to:
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Optimize benefits
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Reduce out-of-pocket costs
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Schedule preventive care and wellness services
By taking these steps, Lehigh Valley residents can maximize their Medicare benefits in 2026, stay healthy, and ensure they are getting full value from their coverage.