Do you know all of your Medicare options?
Depending on your location, age, and current coverage, there are many options that may be available to you! Let’s break it down into 4 main options:
Original Medicare:
Original Medicare is a combination of Part A Hospital insurance and Part B Medical insurance which covers doctors and lab tests. To qualify for Original Medicare, you must be 65 years old or under 65 with two years of disability benefits.
- Part A is usually no cost to you
- There is a premium for Part B
- Part B is optional coverage
- You may have to pay a penalty if you don’t sign up when you’re first eligible
Medicare Part D
Medicare Part D is prescription drug coverage offered by private companies approved by Medicare.
- You must have Medicare Part A or Part B Medicare insurance coverage to have Medicare Part D
- The drug plans have a monthly premium that can vary in cost and may or may not have a deductible.
Medicare Advantage Plans
Medicare Advantage Plans are managed health care plans approved by Medicare and offered by private companies. This option is referred to as Medicare Part C. With a Medicare Advantage Plan you will have all your Medicare Part A and B benefits, plus some plans offer additional coverage for prescription drugs, dental, vision, and hearing.
- There may be extra cost for Medicare Advantage plans since you must still pay the Medicare Part B premium
- You may also have a monthly premium for the plan.
- Some people may qualify for a Medicare Advantage Special Needs Plan if they live in a nursing home, or have certain medical conditions
- All special needs plans provide Medicare prescription drug coverage.
MI Health Link
If you are enrolled in both Medicare and Medicaid, you may be eligible for a MI Health Link health care plan. MI Health Link plans are managed care plans that have no deductibles or copays.
- With a MI Health Link plan, you get your own Care Coordinator to answer your questions and make sure your health needs are being met.
- You will also have access to a dentist and free transportation for doctor’s appointments.
- You must live in one of the eleven counties where MI Health Link plans are available to be eligible. Learn more HERE.
Questions?
When does my Medicare enrollment start?
- You can sign up for Medicare during the three months before you turn 65, the month of your 65th birthday, and during the 3 months after you turn 65.
- If you are under 65 and have received 24 months of disability benefits, you will be enrolled in Medicare in month 25.
- Once you are eligible for Medicare, you can decide which option works best for you.
- Each year, from October 15th through December 7th, you’ll have the opportunity to review your choices and make changes.
Where can I go to learn more?
Call 1-800-803-7174 to talk with a MMAP counselor to discuss your Medicare options and find a plan that is right for you!