Open enrollment period for 2017 begins on the November, 1, 2016! We know that we need health insurance, but how do we decide which plan is best for us and our family members? You wonder if you’ll need to give up the next weekend — or weekends — to sift through the MNsure website. Exactly what deductible should you select? Will you need to be in an Allina network? Or HealthPartners? Fairview? How much will your prescriptions cost on this plan? On that one?

Luckily, the task of how to choose a Minnesota health insurance plan doesn’t have to be tackled alone. Agents are ready (and happy!) to help. Let’s look at some examples of why making an appointment with an agent is beneficial, and will keep your weekends open!

1. Agent services are free! It’s true. Meeting with an agent does not cost you anything more than if you were to research and select a plan on your own. An agent’s commissions are already included in the premium of every plan available, whether you utilize their expertise or not.
2. Agents will help you understand the options that make sense for you. While weeding through umpteen plans on your own can be done, an agent will listen to your needs and concerns, and narrow down the best choices for you. Agents can make thoughtful recommendations based on your personal situation, because they are licensed by the state and trained to do so. His experience saves you time, and his knowledge will help you to feel confident in the plan you choose.
3. Agents will give you peace of mind for the future. When you leave your appointment, you’ll know you chose the ideal plan for your family, and your coverage is set to begin on a specified date. As opposed to enrolling on your own — you will have the agent’s reassurance that your new plan meets your needs, and your enrollment is complete.
4. An agent is your resource even after you enroll. For routine or general billing questions, it will be simpler to contact the carrier of your health insurance policy. But if any more complicated issues arise, your agent will want to clear up the confusion, and can reach out or advocate on your behalf.

There is no downside to meeting with an agent to purchase your health insurance. His expertise can only benefit you. And, you’ll have more time for a fun Saturday at an apple orchard, ruminating over this serious fall dilemma: “What am I going to do with seven bags of apples?”.