Solutions for Seniors

What is Medicare:

Medicare is health insurance for people age 65 or older, under age 65 with certain disabilities, and any age with permanent kidney failure (also known as End-Stage Renal Disease or ESRD). Medicare covers many health care services and supplies, but there are many costs (gaps) it does not cover. ₂

Different parts of Medicare:

- Part A (hospital insurance) - helps covers inpatient care in hospital and helps cover skilled nursing facilities, home health, and hospice care.
- Part B (medical Insurance) - helps covers doctor’s services and outpatient care, other medical services that Part A does not cover (like physical and occupational therapists), and some home health care.
- Part C (Medicare Advantage Plans) – health coverage options (like PPOs and HMOs) run by private companies approved by and under contract with Medicare. Includes Part A and Part B, and usually includes other coverage like prescription drugs.
- Part D (Medicare prescription drug coverage) – a prescription drug option run by private insurance companies approved by and under contract with Medicare

We know that Medicare, with all its “parts” can get somewhat confusing. On top of that, when it comes time to choose a Medicare Advantage or Supplement plan that is right for you, the possibilities can seem endless. It is important to review your health care needs every year. If you are dissatisfied with your current plan’s cost and coverage or customer services you have options for change.

If you are just starting to investigate senior plans or have questions about your current coverage please call us or Contact Us if you would like to discuss your options.

Eligibility:

Enrolled in Medicare A & B
Guaranteed issue rights

Enrollment Periods:₁

Annual Election Period: October 15 to December 7 (2011)
Medicare Disenrollment Period: January 1 to February 14 (2011)
Initial Coverage Enrollment Period (ICEP): Within 3 months of your 65th birthday, and 3 months after your birthday month
Special Election Period: when circumstances apply such as moving into a new area, change in Medicaid eligibility, full and partial dual eligibility. Within 60 days of losing your group health coverage.
Open Enrollment Period for Institutionalized Individuals (OEPI): a continuous period for individuals who move into, reside in, or move out of an institution. OEPI ends tow months after the month the individual moves out of an institution.

Source: 1 Anthem, Senior Marketing Done Right 8-2011
2 Choosing A Medigap Policy: A Guide to Health Insurance for People with Medicare
Disclaimer: The information provided on this internet page is for educational purposes.

Resources:

Medicare 1-800-MEDICARE or TTY users call 1-877-487-2048

Websites:

www.medicare.gov
www.blueshieldca.com
www.anthem.com/ca
www.healthnet.com
www.aetna.com
www.aarpmedicareplans.com