MEDICARE INSURANCE

Question 1

When can I first enroll in Medicare and how do I sign up?

Answer

You first become eligible for Medicare three months prior to your 65th birthday. If you are collecting social security or railroad benefits and qualify for Medicare, you will automatically be enrolled and your card will be mailed to you.

Question 2

What will be my Medicare effective date?

Answer

The first day of the month your birthday falls in. Two exceptions are; If your birthday is the first day of the month, the effective date is the first day of the prior month. If your birthday is the last day of the month, your effective date is the first day of the following month. (I know, confusing right? Thank the government for that!)

Question 3

What if I am not collecting social security, can I still receive Medicare benefits?

Answer

If you are not collecting social security or railroad benefits, you can still enroll in Medicare.

Question 4

What if I am covered by my group plan though work or my spouse’s group plan through work, do I have to take Medicare?

Answer

You can “opt” out of Part B Medicare until you are no longer covered by a group plan. Once you or your spouse retires, you will be eligible for a “Special Enrollment Period” and will have up to eight months to sign up for Medicare B after group coverage ends.

Question 5

What is covered by Medicare A and Medicare B?

Answer

Medicare A covers hospital cost and skilled nursing facilities. Medicare B covers doctor visits and outpatient related costs. For coverage details consult the “Medicare and You 2010″ booklet. You can download a copy from the www.medicare.gov or call 1-800-633-4227 to order a printed copy.

Question 6

Can I get assistance with my prescription drugs?

Answer

Pennsylvania has two programs called PACE and PACENET which are designed to help lower income Medicare beneficiaries pay for their prescription medication.

Question 7

Can I get help with my Medicare Part B premium?

Answer

Certain Medicare beneficiaries may be eligible for help with their Medicare B premiums. This criteria is established based on federal poverty guidelines.

Question 8

What is the Initial Enrollment Period?

Answer

This when you are first eligible for Medicare and begins three months prior to your 65th birthday and last seven months. A person who has group coverage which has ended is eligible to enroll in Medicare up to eight months after the month their coverage has ended.

Question 9

What is the General Enrollment Period?

Answer

From January 1st to the 31st of each year, If you enroll in Part B during the General Enrollment Period, it will be effective July 1 of the year in which you apply. Your Medicare B premium may go up 10% for each 12 month period that you could have had Medicare Part B, but did not sign up.