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Medicare Articles

Medicare can be confusing. There are so many new terms that it can be hard to make sense of the acronym alphabet soup. (What’s the difference between Part A and Part B? How does this relate to Part C? What is the “Extra Help” Low-Income Subsidy? How do I best work with a Medicare agent?)

In these articles, we attempt to dispel some of the mystery and confusion by taking a deeper look at a specific topic and breaking it down so that it is a little bit easier to understand. Claire also offers her own perspective on key items that are particularly important.

We’ll be adding new articles here regularly, so make sure you stay in touch to stay current. Also, if there are any topics that you’d like to see discussed, please just let us know…

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2 Oct 2023

How to Prepare for Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)

Every year, Medicare beneficiaries have the chance to review and make changes to their Medicare coverage during the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP). This crucial window runs from October 15th to December 7th. In this article, we cover what you need to do to make sure that you’re ready.

10 Jan 2024

Onboarding onto Your New Medicare Plan

Onboarding onto a new Medicare plan can be a significant transition, especially for those new to the Medicare system. This process involves understanding the various parts of Medicare, choosing the right plan, and familiarizing oneself with the benefits and responsibilities that come with it. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help navigate the onboarding process.

3 Jan 2024

Medicare Income Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA) Overview

The Income Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA) is an additional charge that some people must pay for their Medicare Part B (medical insurance) and Medicare Part D (prescription drug coverage) if their income surpasses a certain threshold. This policy is designed to ensure that Medicare beneficiaries with higher incomes contribute more towards the cost of their care.

27 Dec 2023

Medicare Institutional Special Needs Plan (D-SNP) Overview

Medicare Institutional Special Needs Plans (I-SNPs) are a type of Medicare Advantage plan designed specifically for beneficiaries who require the kind of intensive medical care typically provided in institutions like nursing homes, or who require nursing care at home. Here’s an overview of key aspects of I-SNPs.

20 Dec 2023

Medicare Dual-Eligible Special Needs Plan (D-SNP) Overview

Medicare Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans (D-SNPs) are specialized Medicare Advantage plans designed to serve individuals who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid. These plans provide a coordinated approach to healthcare that aims to simplify and improve the quality of care for dual-eligible beneficiaries. Learn more in this detailed overview.

13 Dec 2023

Medicare Chronic Condition Special Needs Plan (C-SNP) Overview

Medicare Chronic-Condition Special Needs Plans (C-SNPs) are a specific type of Medicare Advantage Plan designed to provide targeted care and benefits to individuals with specific severe or disabling chronic conditions. These plans offer a unique approach to managing healthcare for people with chronic illnesses, focusing on specialized needs and coordinated care. Here’s an in-depth look at what C-SNPs entail.

6 Dec 2023

Medicare Special Needs Plans (SNP) Overview

Medicare Special Needs Plans (SNPs) are a type of Medicare Advantage Plan specifically designed to provide targeted care and managed health care for specific groups of people. These plans are intended to cater to individuals with specific diseases or characteristics and ensure that they receive an optimized level of healthcare service tailored to their unique needs.

4 Dec 2023

Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Coverage

Medicare Supplement Plans, also known as Medigap policies, are designed to help cover some of the healthcare costs that Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) doesn’t cover. These plans are offered by private insurance companies and can help pay for out-of-pocket costs such as copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles. The coverage provided by Medicare Supplement Plans can vary significantly depending on the specific plan.

1 Dec 2023

Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Overview

Medicare Supplement, also known as Medigap, is a form of health insurance provided by private companies to cover gaps in Medicare coverage. This article aims to offer a comprehensive overview of Medicare Supplement, discussing its purpose, types of plans, eligibility, costs, enrollment periods, benefits, and comparison with other forms of insurance.

29 Nov 2023

Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (Part D) Costs

Medicare Part D plans are an essential aspect of the United States healthcare system, providing prescription drug coverage for Medicare beneficiaries. Understanding the costs associated with these plans is vital for those enrolled or considering enrollment. This article delves into the various costs related to Medicare Part D.

27 Nov 2023

Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (Part D) Coverage

Similar to Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement plans, Medicare Part D coverage is available through private insurance companies that are contracted by Medicare. That means that the costs and coverage may differ between Medicare plans, insurance companies, and location.

22 Nov 2023

Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (Part D) Overview

Medicare Part D is a federal program in the United States that provides prescription drug coverage to individuals with Medicare, the national health insurance program. Established under the Medicare Modernization Act of 2003, Part D aims to lower the cost of prescription drugs for Medicare beneficiaries and to provide more comprehensive medication coverage. This article provides an overview of the key aspects of Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plans.

20 Nov 2023

Stand-Alone Medicare Advantage vs. MA-PD

Medicare Advantage (MA) plans and Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug (MA-PD) plans are two types of health insurance options available under Medicare, each with distinct features and benefits. Understanding the differences between them is crucial for beneficiaries to make informed decisions about their healthcare coverage.

17 Nov 2023

Medicare Advantage Costs

Medicare Advantage, also known as Medicare Part C, are plans offered by private insurance companies contracted with Medicare and provide at least the same level of coverage that Original Medicare provides for both inpatient (Part A) and outpatient (Part B) services. Medicare Advantage is provided, most typically, as a type of “managed care” plan, such as an HMO (health maintenance organization) or PPO (preferred provider organization), similar to the plans you or your spouse or partner may have had through an employer. The cost sharing of Medicare Advantage plans varies based on a number of factors including the plan you choose, location, and risk factors.

15 Nov 2023

Medicare Advantage Coverage

Medicare Advantage, also known as Medicare Part C, are plans offered by private insurance companies contracted with Medicare and provide at least the same level of coverage that Original Medicare provides for both inpatient (Part A) and outpatient (Part B) services. Medicare Advantage is provided, most typically, as a type of “managed care” plan, similar to an HMO (health maintenance organization) or PPO (preferred provider organization) you or your spouse may have had through an employer.

13 Nov 2023

Medicare Advantage Overview

10 Nov 2023

Does Medicare Cover Durable Medical Equipment?

Medicare, the federal health insurance program for people who are 65 or older, certain younger people with disabilities, and people with End-Stage Renal Disease, provides coverage for a wide range of medical services and supplies. Among these are durable medical equipment (DME) which includes items such as walkers, wheelchairs, and home oxygen equipment that are prescribed by a doctor for home use.

8 Nov 2023

Medicare Supplement vs. Medicare Advantage

Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans and Medicare Advantage (Part C) offer different benefits, and the choice between them may depend on individual needs, preferences, and financial considerations.

6 Nov 2023

Original Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage

Navigating the maze of healthcare options can be a daunting task, particularly when it comes to understanding the nuances of Medicare. In this article, we explore the distinctions in coverage between Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) and Medicare Advantage (Part C), aiding beneficiaries in making informed choices that suit their individual health needs.

3 Nov 2023

Understanding Original Medicare: What Part A and Part B Cover

Medicare, a federally funded health insurance program, plays an instrumental role in providing healthcare coverage for U.S. citizens aged 65 and older, as well as certain younger individuals with disabilities and specific health conditions. Original Medicare, which is the traditional fee-for-service program offered directly through the federal government, is composed of two main parts: Part A and Part B. Understanding what each of these parts covers can help beneficiaries make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

1 Nov 2023

Understanding Geographical Variances in Medicare Benefits: What You Need to Know

As a Medicare beneficiary, you might be curious whether your benefits could change depending on your location. While Medicare is a federal program, there can indeed be geographical differences in terms of costs, provider availability, and coverage options. Let’s delve into how location could potentially influence your Medicare benefits.

30 Oct 2023

How to Find High-Quality Medicare Providers

Navigating the world of healthcare can be daunting, particularly for Medicare beneficiaries. However, ensuring that you receive high-quality care is vital for your health and wellbeing. This article will guide Medicare beneficiaries through the process of finding top-tier Medicare providers, with a special emphasis on the use of the “Hospital Compare” tool.

27 Oct 2023

Identifying High-Quality Medicare Advantage (Part C) and Prescription Drug (Part D) Plans: A Guide to Navigating Medicare Star Ratings

Navigating the world of Medicare can be overwhelming for many. With a plethora of plans to choose from, how can one ensure they’re selecting the best option for their needs? One crucial tool that can help Medicare shoppers discern the quality of a Medicare Advantage (Part C) or Medicare Prescription Drug (Part D) plan is the Medicare Star Rating system. This article delves into how to interpret these ratings and offers tips for identifying a high-quality plan.

25 Oct 2023

The Cost of Using a Medicare Agent

Navigating the intricacies of Medicare, the U.S. federal health insurance program for seniors and certain younger people with disabilities, can be a complex task. That’s why many beneficiaries choose to enlist the help of a Medicare agent or broker. Before deciding to utilize an agent’s expertise, one of the most pressing questions is often: How much will it cost?

23 Oct 2023

Medicare Advantage (Part C) vs. Medicare Supplement (Medigap): Which Is Cheaper?

When navigating the landscape of Medicare, beneficiaries often find themselves comparing Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans to Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policies. One of the biggest questions on their minds is cost. Which is cheaper – Medicare Advantage or Medigap? The answer isn’t straightforward, as it depends on individual health needs, preferences, and regional variations. Here’s a closer look at both to help you decide.

20 Oct 2023

Medicare Advantage vs. Original Medicare

Medicare, the federally funded health insurance program primarily for Americans aged 65 and older, has seen significant evolutions since its inception in 1965. One of the most notable changes has been the introduction of Medicare Advantage (Part C) as an alternative to Original Medicare. This article aims to offer a comprehensive comparison and contrast of Medicare Advantage and Original Medicare to help beneficiaries make informed decisions.

18 Oct 2023

Medicare Advantage vs. Medicare Supplement

Medicare, the government-funded health insurance program for seniors aged 65 and older and certain disabled individuals, offers multiple ways for beneficiaries to receive their benefits. Two prominent options are Medicare Advantage (Part C) and Medicare Supplement (Medigap). Both plans provide a means to enhance or supplement traditional Medicare, but they function differently and cater to distinct needs. This article aims to compare and contrast these two options.

16 Oct 2023

2024 Medicare Benefit Changes

Medicare, the U.S. government’s health insurance program for seniors aged 65 and older and some younger individuals with certain disabilities, is constantly evolving to better serve its beneficiaries. As we step into 2024, a plethora of updates and changes to Medicare benefits have been implemented. This article will delve into the most significant updates and their implications for enrollees.

13 Oct 2023

Understanding the Differences Between Medicare Enrollment Periods: IEP, AEP, OEP, and SEP

Medicare, the U.S. government’s health insurance program primarily for individuals aged 65 and older, offers various enrollment periods that allow beneficiaries to join, switch, or drop their Medicare plans. It’s essential to understand the differences between these periods and who can make changes during each. Here’s a breakdown of the Annual Enrollment Period, Open Enrollment Period, and Special Enrollment Period.

11 Oct 2023

Understanding Quality and Star Ratings in Medicare Advantage (Part C) Plans

Navigating the world of healthcare can sometimes feel like traversing a dense forest. As Medicare beneficiaries, having a compass to guide your choices can be invaluable. For those considering or already enrolled in Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans, the Medicare Star Ratings serve as this compass, pointing towards quality and reliability.

9 Oct 2023

Understanding Quality and Star Ratings in Medicare Prescription Drug (Part D) Plans

Medicare’s Star Ratings are an invaluable tool for beneficiaries when comparing and evaluating their healthcare options. While many are familiar with the ratings applied to Medicare Advantage plans, fewer might realize that Medicare’s Prescription Drug (Part D) plans also receive similar assessments. In this article, we’ll dive into the intricacies of these ratings and how they evaluate the quality of Part D plans.

6 Oct 2023

Should I Switch Medicare Plans Every Year?

Every year during the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), from October 15th to December 7th, beneficiaries have the opportunity to review and switch their Medicare plans. With myriad options available and various individual health needs, the question arises: should you switch plans every year?

4 Oct 2023

Transparency in Medicare Marketing

As Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) approaches, consumers must be aware of the Medicare Marketing Guidelines to make informed decisions and protect themselves from deceptive or non-compliant marketing practices. This article aims to highlight the crucial aspects of these guidelines, shedding light on what Medicare agents can and cannot do during the AEP.

2 Oct 2023

How to Prepare for Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)

27 Sep 2023

How to Read Your Medicare Plan’s Annual Notice of Changes (ANOC)

Medicare is a significant part of the healthcare system for many Americans. Every year, if you’re enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C) or Medicare prescription drug plan (Part D), you will receive an Annual Notice of Changes (ANOC). This document can sometimes be complex and filled with legalese, but understanding it is vital for ensuring that you are receiving the best care and benefits available to you. Here’s a guide on how to read and understand your ANOC.

13 Sep 2023

What Is a Medicare Agent?

A Medicare agent is a licensed professional who can help guide you through the various Medicare plans available to you. They are experts on plans and benefits and have the expertise necessary to answer all of your questions before making your healthcare insurance choice.

In this article, we introduce Medicare agents and what they can do to help you find the coverage that best meets your needs.

6 Sep 2023

What Is a Medicare Agency?

A Medicare agency, such as Ask Claire, focuses on providing plan finding and other support services to people eligible for Medicare. An agency will have one or more Medicare agents, which are the licensed staff with whom you will work.

In this article, we introduce Medicare agencies including what they can do for you in terms of helping you find a plan that best meets your needs.

30 Aug 2023

Does Medicare Cover Vision Services?

With over 90% of Medicare beneficiaries needing eyeglasses or corrective lenses, vision services is one of the most important benefit categories for seniors. Despite this clear demand, Medicare’s coverage of vision services can be quite minimal, depending on the type of plan that you have (i.e., Original Medicare, Original Medicare with a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan, or Medicare Advantage). In this article, we explore Medicare’s vision benefits, including how these vary based on the type of Medicare plan in which you are enrolled.

23 Aug 2023

Does Medicare Cover Hearing Services?

For many people on Medicare, a big source of concern is how they will or will not be able to get help with managing hearing loss. As a result, a common question is whether or not they have access to a Medicare-covered hearing benefit. In this article, we explain the differences between what the hearing benefit typically looks like between Original Medicare, Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans, and Medicare Advantage.

9 Aug 2023

Does Medicare Cover Dental Services?

We know that dental coverage is important to many people on Medicare. Depending on how you access your Medicare, you’re likely to have a different range of coverage for Dental Services. For example, the dental services covered under Original Medicare (and Medicare Supplement) are likely different from what will be covered by some Medicare Advantage plans. In this article, we discuss dental coverage under Medicare, including how it varies depending on the type of Medicare plan that you have.

2 Aug 2023

How Is the Quality of a Medicare Plan Measured?

If you’ve ever researched or talked to someone about a Medicare Advantage (Part C) or Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (Part D), you might have noticed that each plan was rated on a 5-star scale. What do those ratings mean and where do they come from?

The star ratings come from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), not just from the plan beneficiaries themselves. So a plan’s star rating is not solely an indication of how satisfied its members are, although that is a major factor. In fact, there are 38 total areas on which plans can be rated. In this article, we introduce and discuss the Medicare Star Rating program so you have a better idea of how the quality of Medicare plans is measured.

26 Jul 2023

How Do I Keep My Primary Care Provider When Switching to Medicare?

Your primary care provider, or PCP, is responsible for addressing most of your healthcare needs. They are also the person who refers you to a specialist, should you need one. So, choosing the right PCP for your Medicare Advantage plan is essential.

One common question we get is to to keep your primary care provide when switching to Medicare. In this article, we cover everything you need to know about primary care providers, including how to keep yours when switching.

12 Jul 2023

Does Medicare Cover Home Health?

A common question people with Medicare or those caring for people on Medicare have is whether or not Medicare covers home health care. Oftentimes, people are trying to understand what is covered and how it compares to Medicare coverage for nursing home care and, in some cases, hospice. In this article, we explore Medicare’s coverage of home health benefits, including how this varies by type of plan.

28 Jun 2023

Medicare Low-Income Subsidy (LIS), also Known as “Extra Help”

People with Medicare who have limited income and assets may qualify for the Low-Income Subsidy (LIS), also known as “Extra Help”, which can help with the costs of their prescription drugs. The Social Security Administration (SSA) and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) work together to provide the benefit. This article introduces the LIS “Extra Help” program and what it means for your drug costs.

31 May 2023

Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage

One of the most common questions we get is how to make sure that you maintain access to the drugs you need when aging into Medicare or when switching plans. Regardless of the type of Medicare plan you have, you will be required to have prescription drug coverage, which usually takes the form of a Medicare Prescription Drug (Part D) plan. In this article, we will introduce how Medicare covers prescription drugs, including how to manage your costs and how to find a plan that will work for you.

24 May 2023

How Do I Prepare for a Meeting with a Medicare Agent?

When it comes time to enroll in Medicare, most people will seek out the help of a Medicare agent who is licensed and trained to understand the plans that they offer and all of the differences between them. The agent’s job is to help you find the plan or plans that will best meet your healthcare and financial needs. With that, you may wonder what you need to do to prepare for a meeting with a Medicare agent. In this brief article, we discuss what you need to do and have ready to help make the process as easy as possible.

10 May 2023

What Steps Do I Need to Take When Planning for Medicare?

If you are turning 65, you are receiving a lot of information about Medicare in the form of direct mail, phone calls, and interacting with Medicare agents in your community. There is also a lot of misinformation that you will need to navigate when preparing for Medicare. In this article, we breakdown each step to help you prepare for the important decisions you will need to make when aging into Medicare and set you up as you begin having the necessary conversations with your employer, spouse, social security, and even a Medicare agent.