In This Article:
8 Things to Consider Before Changing Your Medicare Coverage
Know More About Medicare
1. Coverage – Are the services you need covered?
2. Other Health and Prescription Coverage – If you have other types of health or prescription drug coverage, make sure you understand how that coverage works with Medicare. If you have employment-related coverage, or get your health care from an Indian Health or Tribal Health Program, talk to your benefits administrator, insurer, or plan before making any changes.
3. Costs – How much are your premiums, deductibles, and other costs? How much do you pay for services like hospital stays or doctor visits? Is there a yearly limit on what you could pay out of pocket for medical services? Make sure you understand any coverage rules that may affect your costs.
4. Doctor and Hospital Choice – Do your doctors accept the coverage? Are the doctors you want to see accepting new patients? Do you have to choose your hospital and health care providers from a network? Do you need to get referrals?
5. Prescription Drugs – What are your drug needs? Do you need to join a Medicare drug plan? Do you already have creditable prescription drug coverage? Will you pay a penalty if you join a drug plan later? What will your prescription drugs cost under each plan? Are your drugs covered under the plan’s formulary (drug list)?
6. Quality of Care – The quality of care and services given by plans and other health care providers can vary. See the “Resource Locator” for more help comparing plans and providers.
7. Convenience – Does your current plan include the doctors you see and the pharmacies you use? Can you get your prescriptions by mail? Do the doctors use electronic health records or E-prescribe?
8. Travel – Will the plan cover you if you travel to another state?
The following resources are available if you need help or want more information about Medicare:
Related Articles:
Other SeniorCareHomes.com Helpful Links:
Source: http://www.medicare.gov
Catharine “Kate” is a Certified Administrator for Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly (RCFE) and an Expert Senior Care Advisor. Kate’s grandmother battled Alzheimer’s Disease and Kate personally understands what millions of families are going through. Kate and her team are very passionate in empowering Seniors and their families by providing them with the Best Available Senior Care Options based on Senior’s care needs, preferred location and family’s budget.
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