6 tips for choosing your health benefits for 2026

By Dr. Chris Kleather, Market CEO of UnitedHealthcare of Pennsylvania

As millions of Americans evaluate their health plan options during open enrollment season, a recent survey found that 43% of people regret a health decision they've made because of misleading information — and 1 in 5 admit that content creators without medical credentials have influenced their health choices.1

Enrollment timing: For people with coverage from their employer, open enrollment typically happens during a two- or three-week period between September and December. For those eligible for Medicare, the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period runs from Oct. 15-Dec. 7 each year. For people shopping for individual plans on the Health Insurance Marketplace, open enrollment starts on Nov. 1 and ends on Jan. 15 in most states.

This is a crucial time to select optimal health coverage. Here are a few tips to consider when choosing a plan that may help lead you to better health and cost savings:

1. Start early. Take time to understand and compare the benefits, services, and costs of each plan available to you — including any updates to your current coverage. Look beyond the monthly premium and consider out-of-pocket costs like deductibles, copays, and coinsurance.

* Make sure you understand the difference between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage. Visit MedicareEducation.com for answers on eligibility, plan choices, costs, and prescription coverage.

2. Demystify the language. Health care terms can be confusing, but resources are available to help. Start with justplainclear.com to support informed decision-making.

* Medicare Made Clear breaks down the basics and complexities of Medicare in a way that's easy to understand.

3. Avoid surprise expenses. Before selecting a plan, confirm your doctor is in-network to help reduce costs. Check that your medications are covered—even if you're not switching plans. Consider using network pharmacies or home delivery for savings. Some plans are designed specifically to help manage health care costs.

* Original Medicare typically doesn't cover prescriptions, but a Medicare Advantage plan with drug coverage can help manage medication expenses.

4. Prioritize mental health. Check what mental health services each plan covers, such as in‑person and virtual visits, 24/7 mental health support lines, and digital self-care tools. Some insurers, like UnitedHealthcare, may provide a wide range of mental health offerings, including tools for in-the-moment support, like Calm Health.

* Look for Medicare plans that include virtual mental health care with a $0 copay.

5. Don't overlook extra benefits. Dental, vision, hearing, financial protection, and critical illness coverage may be available and can support your overall well-being.

* Original Medicare doesn't cover most dental, vision, and hearing services—but many Medicare Advantage plans do.

6. Go digital for convenience. If you prefer care from home, choose a plan with 24/7 virtual visits. Digital tools can help simplify provider searches and cost comparisons. Today's health apps offer everything from wellness visits to maternal care—all in one place.

* Older adults are embracing digital tools. Health plan apps can help with claims, rewards, and prescription refills.

Spotting reliable health advice. There's a lot of health information online, but not all of it is accurate. Here are three ways to help protect yourself from misleading claims:

* Check the source: Is the advice from a doctor or a trusted health group? Does it mention research or cite reputable organizations?

* Watch for red flags: Be cautious of posts that promise quick fixes, use fear tactics, or push products without explaining risks.

* Double-check before you act: If something sounds extreme or too good to be true, ask your doctor or look it up on a reputable health site.

For more helpful articles and videos about open enrollment, visit UHCOpenEnrollment.com.

1 Edelman Trust Institute. (2025). 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer Special Report: Trust and Health. Fielded March 4–14, 2025, among 16,000+ respondents across 16 countries.