Ready For Medicare? How Does This Affect My Healthcare?
Medicare was established in 1965 and serves more than 60 million Americans.
Medicare is health insurance for people 65 or older, and you can sign up three months before your 65th birthday.
It is necessary to sign up to avoid any late penalty fees, so be aware of any deadlines.
Some individuals with specific disabilities, such as End-Stage Renal disease or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, can get Medicare earlier.
There is a lot to learn, and it can be overwhelming. Medicare.gov and SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program) help navigate you through their websites to get started.
As you investigate what works best for you, find out from your Healthcare Provider (HCP) the preferred options at their office to ensure a smooth transition from private insurance to Medicare.
The building blocks of Medicare include Part A, Part B, Part D, and Part C.
Parts A and B are known as Original Medicare Coverage
Part A covers:
Inpatient hospitalization, skilled nursing care, hospice, and home health care.
Part B covers:
Outpatient care, including services from health care providers.
Medical equipment includes wheelchairs, walkers, hospital beds, and other equipment.
Preventative Services such as cancer screening, immunizations, and wellness visits. There is a comprehensive list on The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) website.
Part D is Drug Coverage:
Drug coverage helps to cover the cost of prescription drugs. You must select a drug coverage plan in addition to Original Medicare Part A and B through a private Medicare insurance plan or a Medicare Advantage Plan.
Part C or Medicare Advantage Plan:
It is from a private company that offers an alternative to Original Medicare Plans A and B. It bundles plans, including Part A, Part B, and Part D. Most plans will also cover vision, hearing, and dental.
It is never too late to get serious about your health. Preventative services are available, and many are covered under Medicare guidelines. What you have done in the past is undoubtedly a factor that precipitates how you navigate your healthcare in the future. Weight management, healthy food choices, and exercise are all attainable regardless of age.