As the fall season approaches, it is not only time to prepare for the upcoming holidays and family traditions, it is also that important time of the year to review your current Medicare healthcare and prescription drug plans. Medicare is health insurance for Americans age 65 and older and for those with certain disabilities. The Open Enrollment period to make changes to your plan began on October 15 and will run until December 7. Medicare insurance coverage choices are available through Original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage Plan.
Original Medicare insurance provides coverage under Medicare Part A and Part B. If drug coverage is needed, Part D (Drug Coverage) can be added. Medicare Part A provides coverage for inpatient care in hospitals, skilled nursing care, hospice and home health care. Medicare Part B provides coverage for treatments by physicians, other health care providers, outpatient care, home health care, durable medical equipment and some preventive services. You have a greater choice of physicians, hospitals and skilled nursing facilities under Original Medicare. Medicare Part D (Medicare prescription drug coverage) is available through Medicare approved private insurance companies. If additional supplemental insurance is required, a Medigap policy can be obtained.
Medicare Advantage Plan insurance provides coverage under Medicare Part C through Medicare approved private insurance companies. Medicare Part C combines the coverage of Part A, Part B and usually Part D. With a Medicare Advantage Plan your choice of physicians, hospitals and skilled nursing facilities are restricted to the physicians and facilities that have contracted with your Medicare Advantage Plan insurance company.
More detailed information about Medicare plans that offer prescription drug coverage is in the “Medicare & You” handbook that is mailed out every year from Medicare.
You can also visit the Medicare website at www.medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). You can also visit our website at www.janemcnamara.com or call 661-287-3260.