TOP 10 MEDICARE QUESTIONS
- Ben Murray
- Sep 30, 2024
- 2 min read
Besides a few of the most common questions I hear...
"How do I get all these spam calls to stop?" Related Article
"When are they gonna stop running all those darn TV commercials?" Related Article
"I got this letter in mail, what does it mean?" Related Article
Here are the...
Top 10 Questions People Have About Medicare
What is Medicare?
Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily for people aged 65 and older, but also for certain younger individuals with disabilities and those with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) .
What are the different parts of Medicare?
Medicare consists of four parts: Part A (Hospital Insurance), Part B (Medical Insurance), Part C (Medicare Advantage Plans), and Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage) .
When can I enroll in Medicare?
You can enroll in Medicare during your Initial Enrollment Period, which starts three months before you turn 65 and ends three months after the month you turn 65. There are also Special Enrollment Periods and General Enrollment Periods .
How much does Medicare cost?
Costs vary: Part A is usually premium-free if you paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years. Part B has a standard monthly premium (around $164.90 in 2023). Part C and Part D costs vary depending on the plan you choose .
What does Medicare cover?
Medicare covers hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, home health services (Part A), outpatient care, preventive services, doctor visits (Part B), and prescription drugs (Part D). Part C plans cover everything Parts A and B cover and may offer extra benefits .
What is not covered by Medicare?
Medicare does not cover long-term care, most dental care, eye exams related to prescribing glasses, dentures, cosmetic surgery, acupuncture, hearing aids, and exams for fitting them .
What is the difference between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage?
Original Medicare includes Part A and Part B and allows you to visit any doctor that accepts Medicare. Medicare Advantage (Part C) includes Parts A and B, often Part D, and sometimes extra benefits like dental and vision, but requires you to use network providers .
Do I need a supplemental insurance plan (Medigap)?
Medigap plans help cover some costs not covered by Original Medicare, such as copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles. You might consider a Medigap plan if you have Original Medicare and want additional coverage .
How do I apply for Medicare?
You can apply for Medicare online at the Social Security website, by phone, or by visiting your local Social Security office. If you are already receiving Social Security benefits, you will be automatically enrolled in Parts A and B when you turn 65 .
If I keep working after I turn 65, how does Medicare work with insurance through my employer?
If you have other insurance, such as employer or retiree coverage, it can coordinate with Medicare. The primary payer (Medicare or your other insurance) pays first, and the secondary payer pays what the primary payer did not cover. Or you can add Part B and drop your insurance through work, if your benefit options are better.
If you’d like me to help you or someone you care about figure out the best Medicare route, please reach out to me TODAY! -> CONTACT BEN <-
