About Medicare

Medicare is a federal health insurance program in the United States that provides coverage for eligible individuals, primarily those aged 65 and older, as well as certain younger individuals with disabilities.

​Here are some key points to know about Medicare:

1. Eligibility: Medicare is primarily available to individuals who are 65 or older, U.S. citizens or permanent residents, and have paid into the system through payroll taxes. Some people under 65 with certain disabilities also qualify.
2. Medicare Parts: Medicare is divided into several parts, each covering different aspects of healthcare:
   • Medicare Part A: This covers hospital care, skilled nursing facilities, hospice care, and some home health services.
   • Medicare Part B: This covers medical services like doctor's visits, outpatient care, preventive services, and durable medical equipment.
   • Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage): Private insurance plans that offer the same coverage as Parts A and B, often with additional benefits like prescription drug coverage.
   • Medicare Part D: This covers prescription drug expenses, and it can be added to Original Medicare (Parts A and B) or included in a Medicare Advantage plan.
3. Enrollment: You can usually enroll in Medicare during the Initial Enrollment Period (IEP), which begins three months before your 65th birthday and ends three months after. There are also other enrollment periods, such as the General Enrollment Period and Special Enrollment Periods.
4. Costs: While Part A is often premium-free if you or your spouse paid Medicare taxes while working, Parts B and D have premiums. Additional costs may include deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. Medicare Advantage plans may have their own costs.
5. Coverage Gaps: Medicare may not cover all of your healthcare costs. Many people purchase supplemental insurance, often referred to as Medigap plans, to help cover the expenses that Medicare doesn't pay for.
6. Prescription Drug Coverage: If you don't have drug coverage through another source like an employer, it's a good idea to enroll in a Part D plan when you become eligible. This can help with the costs of prescription medications.
7. Networks and Choice: Medicare Advantage plans typically have networks of healthcare providers, while Original Medicare allows you to see any doctor or specialist who accepts Medicare. Consider this when choosing a plan.
8. Annual Open Enrollment: There's an annual open enrollment period, usually from October 15 to December 7, during which you can make changes to your Medicare coverage.
9. Medicare is not Medicaid: These are separate programs. Medicare is generally for seniors and some disabled individuals, while Medicaid is a joint federal and state program for low-income individuals and families.
10. Coverage and Rules Can Change: It's important to stay informed about changes in Medicare policies and your specific plan. Review the Medicare & You handbook and regularly check the Medicare website for updates.
11. Medicare Part A and Part B do not cover long-term care, dental care, vision care, and most cosmetic procedures. If you need coverage for these services, you might need to explore other options or purchase separate insurance.
    
    

Remember that Medicare can be a complex program, and the specific details may vary based on your individual circumstances. It's often a good idea to consult with a Medicare counselor, insurance agent, or visit the official Medicare website for the most up-to-date information and personalized guidance regarding your Medicare options and coverage.

Enrollment period is here! If you are in Connecticut and 65 and over, or about to turn 65 in the next 3 months, I would love to sit and talk to you about the amazing plans that have just been unveiled. Can you enroll on medicare.gov? Sure. However, it is a pain in the ass to get a representative when you need one. When you enroll with me, you will have my direct line and email. I will be around to answer your questions whenever you have them. 
For example, there is a waiting period to get your Medicare cards. I can get your Medicare number and RX numbers within a few business days of enrolling. I will give them to you over the phone or via email. 

If you would like to meet with me, I have open availability during this enrollment period. You can email me to set up a time to get together: [email protected].