I turned 65 this year and signed up for Social Security and Medicare. It was delightful when I paid nothing for my first prescription and realized that now I could see pretty much any doctor I wanted.
I signed up for the whole ball of wax online and I figured it would be as tortuous as it used to be going to the New Jersey Department of Motor Vehicles. My goodness, but the process was so easy that I was stunned. The website worked like a Swiss watch, my “stuff” appeared in the mail as promptly as promised, and the few people I talked to on the phone acted like I was doing them a favor rather than vice versa. Just like that everything was done. It didn’t feel like big Government, it felt like customer service at a well-run Fortune 500 Company. Wow!
So all things considered, there are worse days to be an American than the day you turn 65.
Basic Facts About Medicare Benefits for Seniors
Here are some key points you should know about Medicare:
Eligibility: To be eligible for Medicare, you must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident who is 65 years or older, or under 65 years old with a qualifying disability. Learn more about understanding elder law.
Enrollment: You can enroll in Medicare during your initial enrollment period, which begins three months before your 65th birthday and ends three months after. You can also enroll during the annual open enrollment period from October 15 to December 7. See how today’s technology can help with enrollment.
Medicare is divided into four parts:
- Part A (Hospital Insurance)
Covers hospital stays, skilled nursing care, hospice care, and some home health care. - Part B (Medical Insurance)
Covers doctor’s visits, outpatient care, and some preventative services. - Part C (Medicare Advantage)
An alternative to traditional Medicare, where private insurance companies provide both Part A and Part B coverage. - Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage)
Provides prescription drug coverage.
Cost: Most people do not pay a premium for Part A, but there is a monthly premium for Part B. The cost of Part C and Part D plans varies depending on the plan you choose.
Supplement Plans: While Medicare covers a lot, it does not cover everything. Many people choose to purchase a Medicare Supplement plan to help pay for out-of-pocket costs such as deductibles and copayments. Read personal experiences from seniors.
Changes: Medicare coverage, rules, and costs can change from year to year, so it is important to review your options and coverage regularly.
It is important to understand the details of Medicare benefits for seniors and how it works, as it can have a significant impact on your healthcare and financial well-being. If you have specific questions or need more information, you may want to consult a Medicare counselor or visit the official Medicare website.
