Source: MedicareMadeClear  Tue, Sep 06, 2016

Medicare decisions are highly personal. And there may be as many different questions about Medicare as there are beneficiaries—maybe more. But certain questions seem to come up more often than others. Here are the answers.

1. How do I know what Medicare coverage is right for me?

The answer to this may be easy to say and maybe not as easy to do. You need to understand your personal needs and choose Medicare coverage to help meet them. Use this simple tool to get a quick idea of the type of coverage that might work for you.

2. How much does Medicare cost?

Your costs will depend on the type of coverage you choose. You will likely pay the Part B premium to Medicare. Beyond that, you may pay other premiums, deductibles, co-pays and co-insurance. The total amount will depend on the Medicare overage you choose and the health care services you use. Learn more about Medicare coverage and costs.

3. What do I do about Medicare if I work past age 65?

Many people enroll in just Part A when they turn 65 and have employer coverage. Generally, Part A is premium free if you or your spouse worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years. You may be able to delay enrolling in Part B without penalty if your employer provides creditable coverage. Learn more about getting Medicare while working.

4. How can I get dental and vision coverage with Medicare?

Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover routine dental or vision care, however, some private Medicare Advantage plans do. Plans include all the coverage provided by Parts A and B, and often additional benefits, all in one plan. Learn more about how to get dental coverage with Medicare.

5. What’s the difference between Medicare supplement insurance and Medicare Advantage?

Medicare supplement insurance is also known as Medigap. It’s private insurance you can buy to help pay for some costs not paid by Original Medicare (Parts A and B). Medicare Advantage is an alternative to Original Medicare. It’s a different way to get your Medicare benefits. Learn more about Medicare supplement insurance vs. Medicare Advantage.

6. What’s the difference between a Medicare Advantage HMO and a PPO?

A Medicare Advantage HMO plan usually helps pay only for care you receive from providers in the plan network. A PPO plan will generally help pay for care received outside the plan network, but it may pay less than for the same care received within the network. Learn more about Medicare Advantage plans.

7. Where can I get help paying for Medicare?

Financial assistance programs for people with limited income and assets include Extra Help for prescription drugs, the Medicare Savings Program and Medicaid, to name a few. Qualifications for each program and the level of help offered vary. Learn more about help paying for Medicare.

8. How does Medicare automatic renewal work?

Your Medicare coverage choices will stay in place year after year unless you make a change. This ensures that your coverage continues, but plan benefits and costs may change. It’s a good idea to review your Medicare choices every year during Medicare Open Enrollment, Oct. 15 – Dec. 7, to make sure you have the Medicare coverage that fits with your needs.

9. What’s the difference between Medicare and Medicaid?

Medicare and Medicaid are both government health care programs but they are very different. Medicare is generally for people who are older or disabled. Medicaid is for people with limited income and resources. Learn more about Medicare vs. Medicaid.

10. I’m disabled. When can I get Medicare?

In general, you are eligible for Medicare after receiving Social Security disability benefits for 24 months. There are exceptions for people with certain medical conditions. Get your enrollment dates and learn more about Medicare and disability.

For help with your Medicare health plan, contact us directly.