How do I know which doctors accept Medicare assignment?
First off, let’s define what Medicare assignment is and the impact it can have on your out-of-pocket costs. One of the most significant potential gaps in Original Medicare is healthcare providers’ ability to bill you for something called excess charges if they don’t accept Medicare Assignment. They may still accept you as a Medicare patient, […]
What is the “Welcome to Medicare” physical all about?
Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers a “Welcome to Medicare” preventive visit once within the first 12 months you have Part B. This visit includes a review of your medical history and counseling about preventive services. There is no cost to you for the “Welcome to Medicare” preventive visit if your doctor or other qualified […]
What happens if my Medicare doctor is not in the network?
The answer to this question depends on the type of Medicare plan you have. When we talk about Medicare plans with networks, we are generally talking about Medicare Advantage HMO, HMO-POS, or PPO plans. HMO stands for Health Maintenance Organization and is a type of plan that requires you to see doctors in its network. […]
What happens if my doctor no longer accepts Medicare payment?
While most doctors accept Medicare, some do not. If you turn 65 and your physician does not accept Medicare, you will have some decisions to make. Choosing to stay with a doctor that does not accept Medicare can result in high out-of-pocket costs for you. There is a difference between a doctor who does not […]
If I have Medigap and decide I can’t afford it anymore, do I have options?
One of the challenges for those who have Medigap plans is what to do if the premiums go up, and they can no longer afford the policy. One option is to switch to another less expensive Medigap plan. However, in most cases, to do that, you will have to undergo medical underwriting and which could […]
Why do I have to answer medical questions to get a Medigap plan?
When you turn 65 and sign up for Medicare Part B, you have a six-month open enrollment period for Medicare Supplements Plans. This period starts on the first day of the month of your 65th birthday. During open enrollment, you can purchase any Medicare Supplement policy without answering any medical questions. This is called “Guaranteed […]
What is “Medigap”?
Medigap plans, also called Medicare Supplement plans, are designed to work alongside Original Medicare and reduce your out-of-pocket costs. Original Medicare only covers about 80% of your Medicare Part B health care expenses. That leaves you responsible for paying for the additional 20%, which can be costly if you are diagnosed with a severe illness. […]
What does Original Medicare NOT cover?
While it is important to understand what Medicare covers, it is equally important to understand what it does not. Some of the items and services that Medicare does not cover include: – Most dental care – Eye examinations related to prescribing glasses – Dentures – Cosmetic surgery – Acupuncture – Hearing aids and exams for […]
Is it possible to switch between Medicare Advantage and original Medicare?
If you move out of state and have Original Medicare, you don’t need to make any changes. If you have a Medicare Advantage or Part-D plan, in most cases, you will have to switch plans to one offered in the state of your new residence. Moving out of your current plans service area, will qualify […]
Is it possible to switch between Medicare Advantage and original Medicare?
If you move out of state and have Original Medicare, you don’t need to make any changes. If you have a Medicare Advantage or Part-D plan, in most cases, you will have to switch plans to one offered in the state of your new residence. Moving out of your current plans service area, will qualify […]