Medicare Insurance Programs
Whether you are entering into retirement or hitting an especially introspective milestone, it is never too early to shop around for Medicare insurance programs. With new caps on expenses and increased access to preventative care, millions of Americans will be rushing to see if they're eligible for monthly premiums.
If you have fairly frequent doctor or hospital visits, Medicare Part A and B might leave gaps in your basic benefits. But there is always the option of supplementing these with Medigap Insurance plans that can fill those deductibles (which usually aren't covered by Original Medicare), co-payments for things like prescription drugs and more!
A good way to purchase Medicare coverage is by finding the right plan for you. There can be up to 10 different standardized plans in 47 states, with A-N denoting which private insurers offer each one and not all of them will provide every option available; however they must include at least Plan A (The Enhanced Part D Drug Subsidy).
Please note that although the names may sound similar, Medicare is actually comprised of two different parts: Part A and B.
The “Parts” are not to be confused with Medigap plans A or B though!
Benefits From Basic Medicare Insurance Plans
You will find that different Medicare supplements offer different benefits. It is often recommended that the Medicare insurance plans you choose cover your primary care physician's visit, additional visits to doctors during a health problem, prescription drugs (which are necessary and not covered by Medicare), lab tests, diagnostic services (such as x-rays, MRIs, ultrasound exams), dental services (beyond regular preventive care) and vision coverage.
Medicare Part A, which is the medical part of Medicare, does not cover outpatient prescription drugs unless you are admitted to a hospital. If you are admitted to a hospital for more than twenty-four hours, Medicare Part A will cover your medications.
For home health care, Medicare Part A typically pays 80% of approved costs after a deductible has been met (which changes each year).
Medicare supplement insurance provides "Medigap" coverage for services benefits that are not covered by Medicare. Medicare Part A covers inpatient hospital services and skilled nursing facility care only after a certain number of days following a spell of illness or injury, has been met. Medicare Supplement Insurance can help cover these co-insurance costs.
Medicare Part A
Medicare Part A is a type of Medicare that covers hospitalization expenses. This Medicare insurance can be said to be the most important coverage since it pays for the hospital bills if you happen to get sick or injured while not home. The way this coverage works is by paying your doctor directly, who then makes sure to submit the claims for reimbursement on your behalf. You can also purchase additional coverage to cover other types of Medicare expenses, but most people find that they never use them because their primary Medicare Part A plan covers most costs already with out it.
- Medicare Part A helps in Home Healthcare
- Medicare Parts B, C, and D help out with prescription drugs
- Medicare supplement insurance helps cover gaps in coverage.
Costs of Different Medicare Supplements
All private insurance companies offer all of the same basic benefits, but each can charge its own premium. It would be wise to make sure to shop around and compare prices and policies before enrolling in any one plan, to ensure that you're receiving the best possible deal.
You should also understand what rights and protections you already have – for instance, if you’re still working or eligible for Medicare because of a disability – as well as whether the premiums could change over time.
There are other things to consider as well. Some Medicare supplements require you to pay your share of the original Medicare-approved amount for a doctor visit or other covered health care service.
Others allow you to go out of network and still receive the same benefits as if you went to an in-network provider. And some cover more than others.
How to Enroll In Medicare
The enrollment process is pretty straightforward for those who are already enrolled in Social Security. You'll need to fill out a form called the "Medicare Enrollment Form" and send it along with a copy of your social security card, photo ID, and proof of US citizenship or immigration status to your local Social Security office.
Why You Need a Supplement With Medicare
Medicare supplement insurance plans are needed to complete Medicare coverage. You see, Medicare is a federal health insurance program for those who are ages 65 or older, people with disabilities. But no matter how much you love your Medicare benefits, they don't cover everything. That's why it's important to sign up for a supplemental plan that will help give you the most comprehensive coverage possible.
Medicare Supplement Eligibility
Before you can enroll in any Supplemental Medicare insurance plan, you must be eligible for Medicare. To qualify, you must already have Medicare Part A coverage and proof of eligibility for premium-free Part B coverage. Other services may also be offered with your Medicare plan. For example, some plans include prescription drug coverage or dental insurance in addition to the standard medical benefits.
Specific Eligibility Information
To find out whether you're eligible for Medicare call us, the Local Medicare Support Office, toll-free at 1 (855) 917-0380.