Back to School: Medicare 101 Refresher

As students head back to the classroom this fall, it’s a great reminder that learning never stops, including when it comes to Medicare. Whether you’ve been enrolled for years, are approaching your 65th birthday or soon to retire post 65 and leaving work coverage, taking a few minutes to refresh your Medicare knowledge can help you make informed decisions about your healthcare.

Medicare is made up of several parts, each serving a different purpose.
Part A is for hospital stays and inpatient care; Part B is for doctor visits and outpatient medical services; Part D provides prescription drug coverage; and Part C (Medicare Advantage) combines many of these benefits into one plan and may also include extras not covered on Original Medicare, usually with network requirements. It’s also important to remember that Medicare doesn’t cover every healthcare expense, and your plan may change from year to year.

That’s why an annual Medicare plan review is one of the smartest “homework assignments” you can complete. Reviewing your coverage each year helps ensure your doctors remain in-network, your prescriptions are still covered, and your plan continues to meet your healthcare needs.

Next month, we’ll discuss the Medicare mail that begins arriving in the fall, what you should pay close attention to, and how it can help you prepare for the upcoming Annual Enrollment Period.

If you have questions, give me a call. There is no obligation and my service is never a cost to you.