Common Questions About Medicare Answered

When it comes to Medicare, most decisions are highly personal, and yet, the same questions about it keep coming up. We put together a list of some of the most common Medicare questions and answers to clarify your doubts.

How Should You Pick Medicare Coverage?

Start by understanding your personal health care needs. Next, pick Medicare coverage to help meet these needs best. For example, getting Part D prescription drug coverage makes sense if you need prescription drugs right now.

How is Medicare Advantage HMO different from PPO?

A Medicare Advantage HMO plan mostly helps pay for care only when you get it from providers in the plan network. PPO plans generally help pay for care received outside the plan network, though it may pay less.

What Will Medicare Cost Me?

Part A is usually free, but you may have to pay for Part B coverage. Besides that, you may pay other premiums, deductibles, co-pays, and co-insurance. The total amount you pay will depend on the type of plans you choose and the health-related services you end up using throughout the year.

Does Medicare Cover Dental and Vision Care?

The original Medicare parts A & B do not cover routine dental or vision care. Though some parts of Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans do.

Is Medicare Mandatory?

No. While some part of Medicare is mandatory, choosing to enroll in any part of Medicare after your Initial Enrollment Period could lead to financial penalties unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period with creditable employer coverage.

Is There a Way to Get Help with Paying for Medicare?

There are several financial assistance programs for people with limited income and assets.

What is Medicare Automatic Renewal?

Medicare coverage choices stay in place year after year unless you change your plan. This allows your coverage to continue even if your plan benefits and costs vary every year. A good rule of thumb is to review your Medicare choices annually during the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period each fall.

Is Medicare Also Available for Disabled People?

Yes. For the most part, you can get Medicare after receiving Social Security disability benefits for 24 months.