Benefits of Medicare

1. Access to Affordable Health Care:

Medicare provides access to a wide range of health care services from approved providers. This includes hospital care, doctor visits, preventive care, and prescription drug coverage.   

2. Preventive Care Services:

Medicare plans offer preventive care services such as cancer screenings, flu shots, and vaccinations at no additional cost.   

3. Financial Assistance:

Medicare provides financial assistance to help eligible individuals pay for their health care costs. This includes premiums, co-payments, and deductibles.   

4. Long Term Care:

Medicare plans offer coverage for long term care services such as home health care and nursing home care.   

5. Mental Health Services:

Medicare plans offer coverage for mental health services such as counseling and therapy.   

6. Access to Specialized Care:

Medicare plans offer access to specialized care from providers such as chiropractors, physical therapists, and optometrists. 

7. Guaranteed Renewal:

Medicare plans are guaranteed to be renewed each year, so you don't have to worry about changes to your coverage or a lapse in coverage due to changes in your health status.

How to Qualify for Medicare

In order to qualify for Medicare, you must be age 65 or older, or have a disability, end-stage renal disease, or Lou Gehrig's disease (ALS). If you are under 65, you must have been receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits for 24 months, or have End-Stage Renal Disease or Lou Gehrig's Disease (ALS). You may also qualify if you are the spouse or dependent child of someone who is eligible for Medicare.

When Should You Start Planning For Medicare

The best time to start planning for Medicare is three to six months before you turn 65. This time period will give you enough time to research and compare different plans, sign up for the best one that fits your budget and needs, and receive your Medicare card in the mail. Below are some of the area that I will be able to help you understand.

1. Understand the costs and coverage:

Review the costs of Medicare, such as Part A and Part B premiums, deductibles, and co-insurance and co-payments. Understand what services and care are covered by Original Medicare and the supplemental coverage options available. 

2. Determine eligibility:

Determine if a person is eligible for Medicare and the enrollment period. 

3. Choose a plan:

Select a plan that best meets a person's individual health care needs and budget. 

4. Understand provider networks:

Understand which healthcare providers are in the network of a plan and if out-of-network services are covered. 

5. Consider additional coverage:

Consider purchasing a Medigap plan or a Medicare Advantage Plan for additional coverage and costs. 

6. Research long-term care options:

Research the long-term care options available for those with chronic illnesses or disabilities. 

7. Review financial assistance:

Review financial assistance programs that may help with Medicare costs, such as the Medicare Savings Program and the Extra Help program.