How can I get dental and vision coverage with Medicare?
Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) does not cover routine dental or vision care. However, many Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) offer the coverage along with other benefits not provided by Original Medicare, such as prescription drug coverage. See page 10 for more information about Medicare Advantage plans.
What will I pay for prescription drugs if I enter the Part D donut hole?
The Medicare Part D donut hole or coverage gap is the phase of Part D coverage after your initial coverage period. You enter the donut hole when your total drug costs—including what you and your plan have paid for your drugs—reaches a certain limit. Amounts might vary by calendar year.
How do I know if I’ll be able to see my same doctor when I’m on Medicare?
Many doctors accept Medicare. Ask your doctor to be sure. If you’re considering a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C) with a provider network, you’ll also need to know whether your doctor is in it. Check the provider list for each plan you’re researching.
Who is eligible for Medicare program?
Medicare is available for people who are aged 65 or over, or if you are a person suffering from a disability or certain conditions such as end stage renal disease. You do not have to pay Medicare premiums if you are over 65 and are currently receiving benefits.
Can I have two Medicare supplement plans?
No. If you are receiving the Medicare Advantage plan or already have another Medicare supplement plan, you are not eligible to receive another one.
What does Medicare Part D include?
Medicare Part D is an outpatient prescription drug plan that is available to all people receiving Medicare. A wide range of prescription drugs are covered, with at least two drugs per category. Medicare Part D covers both formulary and generic prescription drugs. There are three tiers of Medicare Part D that affect the co-payment amount and drugs available for coverage.
What happens to my spouse’s health coverage when I retire and go on Medicare?
Your spouse may need to find other coverage if he or she is younger than you and there is a gap between being covered under your employer coverage and becoming eligible for Medicare. Your employer may offer COBRA for your spouse’s continued coverage. Talk with your employer plan administrator.
Your spouse could also buy individual coverage through the Marketplace or directly from an insurance company until becoming eligible for Medicare. At that time your spouse may qualify for premium-free Part A based on your work record or their own.
What happens if I move? Can I keep the same Medicare Advantage plan?
Medicare Advantage plans have geographic service areas where they operate. You can keep your plan if you move to another address within the same service area. Call your plan’s customer service number to find out whether your new home is in your current plan’s service area.
If you move outside your plan’s service area, you’ll need to find a different Medicare Advantage plan or go back to Original Medicare and consider adding a standalone prescription drug plan and Medicare supplement insurance.
When can I join, switch, or drop a Medicare Advantage Plan?
You can join, switch or drop a Medicare Advantage Plan during the open enrollment period each year, which runs from October 15 to December 7. Coverage begins on the first of January the following year.
Is Medicare Part C the same as supplemental insurance?
Yes. Medicare Part C is also called Medicare Advantage or supplemental insurance coverage designed to cover the gap in payments between what Medicare Parts A and B provide and the cost of your medical treatments. These plans are offered by Medicare-approved companies.
I can’t afford to pay for Medicare — not even the Part B premium. Where can I get help?
You may be able to get help paying Medicare premiums and other costs, if you qualify. See More information for a list of resources.
