Frequently asked questions
Medicare does not typically cover long-term care, such as custodial care in a nursing home, but it may cover short-term stays for rehabilitation or skilled nursing care after a hospital stay.
Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily for people aged 65 and older, though certain younger individuals with disabilities or specific conditions (such as End-Stage Renal Disease) may also qualify.
SNPs are a type of Medicare Advantage plan tailored for individuals with specific diseases or conditions, those who are dual-eligible for Medicaid, or those living in institutions.
Original Medicare travels with you, but if you have a Medicare Advantage or Part D plan, you may need to switch to a plan available in your new location.
Medicare is a federal program primarily for individuals aged 65 and older or those with specific disabilities. Medicaid, on the other hand, is a state and federal program that provides health coverage to low-income individuals of all ages.
Medicare Part A covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home health care. Most people don’t pay a premium for Part A if they or their spouse have paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years. However, if you don’t meet these criteria, there is a premiu
Original Medicare includes Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance), allowing beneficiaries to see any doctor that accepts Medicare. Medicare Advantage (Part C) is an all-in-one alternative that includes Parts A and B, often with added benefits like vision, dental, and prescription drug coverage. However, it usually requires using a network of providers.
The Medicare donut hole refers to a coverage gap in Part D plans where beneficiaries may pay more for medications after reaching a certain spending limit. Once out-of-pocket costs reach a higher threshold, catastrophic coverage kicks in.
Yes, but it depends on your employer’s policy. If you’re still working and covered by employer insurance, you may not need to enroll in certain parts of Medicare until you retire.
Medigap, or Medicare Supplement Insurance, helps cover costs that Original Medicare doesn’t, like copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles. It is useful for those who want to minimize out-of-pocket expenses and have more predictable healthcare costs. Medigap policies work only with Original Medicare, not Medicare Advantage.
Yes, you can switch plans during the Open Enrollment Period (October 15 – December 7) or under certain conditions during a Special Enrollment Period.
The Medicare Savings Program helps low-income individuals pay for Medicare premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance. Eligibility is based on income and resource limits.
Medicare Advantage plans are private insurance options that bundle Part A, Part B, and often Part D coverage. These plans may offer additional benefits like vision, dental, or wellness programs but may have restricted networks.
Original Medicare does not cover routine dental, vision, or hearing care. However, some Medicare Advantage plans include these benefits.
Consider purchasing a Medigap (Medicare Supplement) plan, choosing a cost-effective Medicare Advantage plan, or applying for financial assistance programs like Extra Help for prescription drugs.
Missing your enrollment period may result in late enrollment penalties for Part B and Part D. However, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period under certain conditions.
Original Medicare does not cover most prescription drugs. To get drug coverage, you need to enroll in a separate Medicare Part D plan or choose a Medicare Advantage plan that includes drug coverage.
Choosing the right policy depends on: Your Specific Needs: Consider whether you need life, health, auto, or other types of insurance based on your personal circumstances. Budget: Determine how much you can afford in premiums while ensuring adequate coverage. Coverage Options: Compare policies and coverage limits to find one that best fits your risk tolerance and protection needs. Insurance Provider Reputation: Research the insurer’s financial stability, customer service, and claims process to ensure reliability.
Original Medicare typically doesn’t cover care outside the U.S., except in specific emergency situations. Some Medicare Advantage plans may offer limited international coverage.
Medicare Part B covers outpatient services like doctor visits, preventive services, durable medical equipment, and some home health care. The cost includes a monthly premium, which varies based on income, as well as an annual deductible and coinsurance.
You can enroll during your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP), which begins three months before you turn 65, includes your birth month, and ends three months after. There are also Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs) and Open Enrollment Periods for specific circumstances.
