Originally published in The Tennessean, October 2025
Each fall, open enrollment offers a chance to make sure your health insurance fits your needs. Whether you’re signing up for the first time or reviewing your current plan, taking a little time to get to know your options can help you make smart choices and avoid surprises later.
Health insurance began as a safety net that can help keep a sudden illness or injury from turning into a significant financial crisis. That’s still true, though today we also cover many preventive care services at low or no cost to members.
At BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, we also work to negotiate rates with doctors and hospitals. Our purpose is to offer access to quality care at a more affordable price, while helping to protect members from financial hardship.
Here’s what our data shows: more people are using more health care services than in the past. And medical costs are rising in part because of new treatments and expensive drugs. That’s why it’s more important than ever to understand your options and make informed choices.
So, how can you do that? Here are some tips I share with my loved ones every year.
Think about your health needs for the next year.
Will you need to see a doctor often, refill regular prescriptions, or have a planned surgery? Write down any ongoing health needs or upcoming procedures. This can help you figure out what type of coverage you need. If you have an existing plan, review what’s covered, what’s not, and what you’ll pay for common services. If something isn’t clear, don’t hesitate to call your insurer’s customer service line or use online chat tools. Asking questions early can help you avoid surprises later.
Tip: Remember to consider not just your monthly premiums, but deductibles, and out-of-pocket costs. Different plan structures have different trade-offs.
Make a list of your providers and medications.
If you have a favorite doctor or need specific medications, check to see if they’re covered by the plans available to you. Not all plans cover the same providers or prescriptions, so it’s important to double-check.
Tip: Many insurers offer online provider directories for their networks and cost estimators to help you compare options and see which providers and medications are included in their networks.
Try to estimate your total yearly costs, not just your monthly premium. These tools can help you try to match your budget with the coverage or services you may need.
Compare the options available to you.
For people who purchase plans on the Marketplace, what you pay for coverage will likely increase significantly next year. That’s partly because we expect to cover much higher claims costs next year. Another factor is the possible expiration of federal premium tax credits that help many people pay for their Marketplace plan premiums.
If you’re 65 or older (or have certain disabilities) and looking for a Medicare Advantage plan, we know people shopping for these plans are looking for a comprehensive plan that has low to no copay. That’s why our plans include dental, vision, pharmacy, over-the-counter and well-being benefits – even a $0 copay for primary care visits.
Regardless of where you get coverage, find out what plans – and networks – are available to you and compare them based on your needs and financial situation. PPOs can offer more predictable costs and flexibility with providers. High-deductible plans mean you pay more up front until you reach a certain amount, but they may have lower monthly premiums. Consider the trade-offs carefully.
Tip: If you can choose between multiple provider networks, consider going with the smaller network – which will balance fewer provider choices with lower costs.
Of course, if you have a longstanding relationship with a doctor, check which networks they’re part of.
Open enrollment is your chance to make sure you’re prepared for the year ahead. Discuss any questions about coverage, costs, or providers with your insurer or licensed broker. Taking a little time now to learn and ask questions can help you choose the right plan. Your health and peace of mind are worth it – don’t hesitate to reach out for help.
Dalya leads a team responsible for marketing, communication and community relations strategies that reflect the mission-driven culture of BlueCross. She has more than a decade's experience as a communications leader in health care, government services and sports information.