Help for Seniors Living Alone

Living alone is scary, no matter how old you are, but it gets scarier as you age and develop more health and safety concerns.

Concerned family members may start to lovingly imply that it “might be best” for you to move into an assisted living home, or start to ask questions.

You can share this blog with them to give them a sense of security that you are thinking about this and making the right moves. Living alone can be scary, but it’s not impossible.

Advantages of Elderly Living Alone and at Home

There are more benefits to living alone than your family members may realize. Living alone and at home can cost much less than moving into a retirement home or nursing facility. Of course, this can change depending on whether you have specific healthcare needs or require an in-home aide. 

Living at home can also be much more comfortable. High-tier, expensive nursing homes, and retirement facilities can certainly be nice, but they often come at a cost.

Sometimes, more reasonably-priced facilities are not as comfortable as being home. Plus, there’s a sense of security and happiness that comes with staying in the home that you’ve worked for.

Tips for Living Alone

The following tips will not only provide you with a safer, healthier living situation but will also provide your friends and family members with peace of mind.

  1. Attend your annual doctor visits, even if you feel fine.
  2. Keep your social life as active as possible and get to know your neighbors.
  3. Set reminders on your phone or calendar to refill your medication, or schedule automatic medication reminders. 
  4. Have a first-aid and a disaster preparedness kit easily assessable in case of emergency.
  5. Make all necessary home repairs as soon as possible.
  6. Always lock your doors and windows, and consider installing an alarm system.
  7. Keep a list of emergency contacts pinned in a visible location in case of an emergency.
  8. Consider purchasing useful devices for your home (see below)

Devices for Seniors Living Alone

Devices for Seniors Living Alone

Technology has made living at home by yourself much easier than it was for your grandparents. Everything from automatic vacuums to alarm systems makes home life safer, healthier, and more possible. We searched the internet, and these are some of our favorite devices that you can buy to improve your life at home.

Housekeeping Devices

Smart Vacuum – One of the hardest things about living alone as an older adult is finding ways to keep your house clean. Simple tasks like vacuuming will start to get harder, but smart vacuums can solve that problem for you. All you have to do is press a button on your phone to get a Roomba vacuum to do it for you!

Voice Assistants – Devices like Amazon’s “Alexa” and Google’s “Home” platform can save you from things turning off the light before you walk to bed, or having to get up and walk around too often.

Kitchen & Bath

Bath Mats, Chairs, and Bars – Slips and falls are one of the most dangerous parts of living alone because it’s hard to say how long it will be before someone can help you up. Be sure to buy grip bath mats for your shower or tub (or even for any tiled and slippery areas). Also, consider investing in a chair for the shower so that you don’t have to stand on the slippery tub.

Automatic Kitchen Appliances – Kitchen fires are another major concern for adults living alone. As symptoms of dementia start to appear, leaving appliances on can become a common occurrence. Consider appliances that have automatic “off” functions and cordless devices like this electric kettle.

Life Alert Devices for Seniors Living Alone

Life Alert is just one brand of medical alert device, which is a device you wear that can alert emergency personnel if you need help. Other brands include Medical Guardian and Philips Lifeline.

Life Alert Life alert can be a lifesaver if you fall and can’t get up, or if you have a medical emergency and can’t reach for the phone. All you have to do is hit a button on your device (which you can wear around your neck), and help will arrive.

Medical Guardian This company has a few different types of products for medical alerts and home safety. Their devices are capable of detecting falls and alerting authorities of any emergency instantly.

Philips Lifeline Their products include wearable pieces like watches and necklaces as well as home bases that you can keep in your living room. Like other services, Philips Lifeline products will alert authorities. Uniquely, they focus on unique, individualized care plans, and there is two-way communication available so that you can request a specific type of emergency help.

How Medicare Covers Home Care

You can alleviate a lot of your and your family’s concerns about you living alone at home by taking charge of your in-home care. Medicare Part A covers part-time or intermittent home health services when ordered by a doctor.

It does NOT cover 24-hour care, meal delivery, or homemaker/custodial services, but you may be able to get those other items through select Medicare Advantage plans.

Home Care Services That Accept Medicare

To find home care services near you that accept Medicare, use Medicare.gov’s “Find a home health agency” tool. Type in your zip code and click “search” for a list of the providers in your area.

Home Health Services That Accept Medicare
Home Health Services That Accept Medicare

Remember that if you have a Medicare Advantage plan, you’ll need to use your plan’s search tool or list of providers to make sure that the agency or service you want to use accepts your Medicare Advantage coverage.

Organizations That Offer Help for Elderly Living Alone

Living independently does not mean that you are completely alone. Even if you don’t have friends and family members close by, there are several organizations you can reach out to for help. 

AARP & the AARP Foundation: AARP is a nonprofit organization with a goal to help people aged 50 and older improve their lives through better nutrition, housing, income, social activities, and more.

Area Agencies on Aging (AAA): The AAA is a nationwide program offering education, meal programs, transportation, and more for aging adults. Each of its programs is localized. 

CARIE (Center for Advocacy for the Rights and Interests of the Elderly): CARIE is a coalition that helps individual seniors who ask for help with legal reform and rights.

LASPD (Legal Advocates for Seniors and People with Disabilities): LASPD is an organization of lawyers who advocate for the rights of older adults and disabled people. They focus primarily on Social Security claims.

National Council on Aging: Works with nonprofits, governments, and businesses to provide programs and services for seniors in regards to health, finances, and legal concerns.

National Institute on Aging (NIA): The NIA conducts research on the well-being of older adults and is a great source for health topics. They also operate “Go4Life,” an exercise and physical activity program for seniors.

Meals on Wheels:  The Meals on Wheels program is a localized program for meal delivery for people who have a hard time leaving their homes and cooking their own food. Click here to read more about Medicare meal delivery

PACE (Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly): PACE helps eligible people over the age of 55 with medical, personal, and social care while they live at home. That can include medication delivery, transportation, etc.

Becoming a Caregiver

Medicare Caregiver

If you are reading this with another person in mind, maybe it’s time for you to become a caregiver. Keeping your loved ones at home instead of moving them to a facility is a tough decision to make.

Some older adults will truly be better off living in a medical facility, while others don’t need that level of attention and will be more comfortable at home. Have the discussion not only with your loved one but also with their doctors.

If you decide that your loved one is going to stay at home, and you would like to become their primary caregiver, there are a few steps you should take: 

  1. Learn everything you can about your loved one’s medical conditions so that you can provide the best possible care.
  2. Reach out to the senior advocacy groups listed above for help with managing your loved one’s in-home care. 
  3. Talk to your loved one about Medicare, Medicaid, and private health insurance options and find out if you are eligible to be paid as a caregiver through their plan (click here to speak with a licensed agent).
  4. Download our caregiver checklist for more information on becoming a caregiver for your loved ones.
Medicare Caregiver Support

This post was originally published on July 31, 2019, and updated on October 29, 2019.

How to Find Medicare-Approved Mobility Scooters in my Area

According to the University of California’s Disability Statistics Center, about 6.8 million people rely on mobility scooters to get around their homes. Electric scooters may help give people independence and freedom who might otherwise be left in bed. If you’re looking for a Medicare-approved mobility scooter, first you have to qualify to receive one.

Does Medicare Cover Mobility Scooters?

Medicare Part B (medical insurance) covers motorized scooters as durable medical equipment (DME). In order for Medicare to help pay for a power scooter, you must have limited mobility and meet all of the following conditions:

  • Your doctor must submit a written order stating that you have a medical need for a scooter to use at home.
  • You have a health condition that causes extreme difficulty moving around your house.
  • You can’t engage in daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, getting in or out of bed or a chair, or using the bathroom, even with an assistive device.
  • You’re able to safely operate the scooter including getting on and off the device, or you have a caregiver with you at all times to help you use the device safely.
  • You can use the equipment in your home (for example, it’s small enough to fit through your doors). 
  • Both your doctor and the equipment supplier are Medicare-approved.

If Medicare approves the device, you may pay 20 percent of the Medicare-approved amount after you pay your Part B deductible for the year. Medicare may pay the other 80 percent.

Medicare Plan Search

Medigap Coverage for Scooters

A Medigap (Medicare Supplement) plan is a type of private insurance policy that can help pay for financial items such as Medicare coinsurance (like the 20 percent you’d pay for a scooter) and copays. In 2019, Medigap plans have 10 different coverage levels and each one is assigned a letter. 

Note: Plans that cover the Part B deductible (Plan F and Plan C) are going away in 2020, so if you want coverage for those items, talk to an agent to enroll now. Those plans won’t be available to anyone newly eligible for Medicare after January 1, 2020.

Medicare Supplement Plan Benefits | Medicare Plan Finder

Medicare Advantage Scooter Coverage

Medicare Advantage plans are private insurance policies that can provide coverage for more services than Original Medicare. Even though Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage sounds similar, they are actually very different. 

Medigap plans help pay for Original Medicare-related fees. Medicare Advantage plans offer coverage for the same services as Original Medicare, but they can also offer additional benefits such as hearing, dental, vision, and fitness classes. You cannot have both a Medicare Supplement and a Medicare Advantage plan, so it’s best to meet with an agent to learn what’s right for you.

A Medicare Advantage plan may offer reduced fees for mobility scooters, however, your exact cost depends on your plan.

How to Get a Medicare-Approved Mobility Scooter

In order to get a prescription for a mobility scooter, you must first have a face-to-face visit with your doctor. Your doctor must document your condition and ability to move around your home. Your documentation needs to say that you can’t use other mobility aids, and a scooter is your only option.

The mobility device supplier must receive the order within 45 days of your in-person evaluation.

How to Find a Medicare-Approved Electric Scooter Supplier

Medicare.gov has a DME directory so you can find a Medicare-approved electric scooter supplier. Click here to get started. Enter your zip code in the search bar. We used our home office’s zip code in Nashville, TN for demonstration purposes. Then click “Go” beside the green arrow.

How to Find a Medicare-Approved Electric Scooter Supplier Step 1 | Medicare Plan Finder

The next page you reach allows you to select which DME you need. Since you’re looking for a scooter, check “Power Operated Vehicles (Scooters).” Then click “Search.”

How to Find a Medicare-Approved Electric Scooter Supplier Step 2 | Medicare Plan Finder

Click “Show All Results ” on the next page.

How to Find a Medicare-Approved Electric Scooter Supplier Step 3 | Medicare Plan Finder

Then you can see a list of local DME suppliers complete with contact information. You may have to call multiple suppliers to find the right one.

How to Find a Medicare-Approved Electric Scooter Supplier Step 4 | Medicare Plan Finder

Other Types of Mobility Equipment Medicare Covers

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) categorizes some other mobility aids as Durable Medical Equipment. You may qualify for a manual or power wheelchair instead of a mobility scooter.

Manual Wheelchair

If you can’t use a cane or walker, but you have enough upper body strength to use a manual wheelchair, you may qualify for one instead of a powered scooter. You may have to rent a wheelchair first, even if you plan on buying it eventually.

Power Wheelchair

You may qualify for a power wheelchair if you can’t use a manual wheelchair or electric Hoscooter safely. If you aren’t strong enough to operate the scooter, your doctor may recommend a power wheelchair instead.

Does Medicare Cover Stair Lifts?

Stair lifts are a mobility aid many people use to travel up and down stairs in their homes. Medicare considers stair lifts to be home modifications rather than DME, therefore, Original Medicare doesn’t cover them.

However, some Medicare Advantage plans may cover some of the costs of buying and installing a stair lift chair.

Medicare Scooter Fraud and How You Can Help Stop It

Unfortunately, some DME suppliers are dishonest

Medicare fraud can happen in a variety of ways. For example, in 2018, an equipment supplier found a woman’s Medicare number and claimed they sold her an electric wheelchair. The supplier did not sell the woman anything. In fact, the 85-year-old “refused the hand of a deputy and climbed into the witness chair” according to the Associated Press (AP)

Another example of scooter fraud is suppliers actually giving people scooters who don’t need them. According to the Washington Post, Medicare fraud has been a “top concern in Washington for decades.” 

Possible signs of scooter fraud are a supplier offering you a “free” scooter, offering to pay you in cash or to waive your copay, or having a doctor you don’t know order a scooter for you.

If you suspect fraud, call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) to report the incident. Be sure to write down all of the details of your incident such as the company’s name and who you talked to.

Get Coverage for Medicare-Approved Mobility Scooters

A licensed agent with Medicare Plan Finder may be able to help the best coverage to suit your needs, whether it’s a Medicare Supplement or Medicare Advantage plan. 

There may be many plans available in your area, and your agent may be able to find a plan that fits your budget, lifestyle, and one that offers important benefits such as scooter coverage. To set up an appointment, call 844-431-1832 or contact us here today.

Medicare Plan Search
Contact Us | Medicare Plan Finder

Does Medicare Cover Mammograms and Other Women’s Health Services?

Medicare is not just for sick days! Did you know you could use your Medicare coverage for annual wellness exams, like check-ins with your gynecologist or OB/GYN? This post will tell you about all the ways women can use Medicare preventative benefits to stay healthy.

Does Medicare Cover Gynecology?

As long as you have an OB/GYN that accepts Medicare, your Medicare Part B gives you access to preventative women’s health care.

There are no exceptions – every woman enrolled in Medicare Part B has gynecology coverage. You should be taking advantage of these benefits! Remember that your Medicare is designed not just to help you in a time of illness or injury, but also to prevent those illnesses or injuries from occurring.

This coverage can include services like:

  • Gynecological & breast exams
  • Pap smears
  • Cancer screenings
  • Menstrual/menopausal management
  • Contraception counseling, if relevant
  • Treatment for abnormalities and infections

Does Medicare Cover Mammograms?

If you are enrolled in Medicare, your annual mammogram screening is covered 100% so long as your provider accepts Medicare. Diagnostic mammograms are covered at 80%, which leaves you responsible for the remaining 20% ($60 on average). Diagnostic mammograms are used if you have suspicious or concerning results from your annual mammogram.

A Medicare Supplement plan can help cover the additional costs of diagnostic mammograms and other services. Depending on which type of Medicare Supplement plan you purchase, benefits can include:

  • Part A coinsurance and hospital costs
  • Part B coinsurance and copayments
  • Blood work copays (up to three pints)
  • Hospice coinsurance and copayments
  • Skilled nursing facility coinsurance
  • Part A deductible
  • Part B deductible
  • Part B excess charges
  • Foreign emergency travel

These financial benefits can help with any of your health-related costs, not just mammograms. If you would rather pay a small monthly premium to help protect yourself from unforeseen health expenses, a Medicare Supplement plan may be right for you.

Medicare Supplements | Medicare Plan Finder

Medicare Advantage plans are required to cover, at a minimum, the same as Original Medicare. This means that your annual mammogram is still cost-free to you and diagnostic mammograms are covered at 80%.

However, Medicare Advantage plans can offer several additional benefits beyond Original Medicare that can help you maintain a healthy and proactive lifestyle. These benefits include vision, hearing, and dental coverage, monthly OTC pharmacy allowance, non-emergency transportation, group fitness classes like SilverSneakers®, and so much more! These plans have continued to grow in popularity each year, and more than 20.4 million beneficiaries are taking advantage of these benefits.

Medicare Advantage | Medicare Plan Finder

Medicare Mammogram Eligibility

To be eligible for preventive mammogram screening coverage, you need to be a woman enrolled in Original Medicare (Part A and B) or a Medicare Advantage plan. Men are not eligible for annual Medicare-covered mammograms.  While it is possible for men to get breast cancer, it is very rare. That’s why most men are not eligible for preventive mammograms. However, men who are at high-risk can have diagnostic mammograms covered at 80%, just like women.

How Often Does Medicare Pay for Mammograms?

We know Medicare covers Mammograms, but how many? Medicare will cover one preventive mammogram per year. If your results are concerning or show you have a high risk of developing cancer, Medicare will continue to pay 80% for each diagnostic mammogram needed. There is no limit on how many diagnostic mammograms Medicare will cover.

Does Medicare Cover Gynecological Exams?

Gynecological exams and services covered by Medicare include:

  • Gynecological exams
  • Breast exams
  • Pap smears
  • Gynecological cancer screenings
  • Testing for HPV, HIV, and other sexually transmitted diseases
  • Treatment for pelvic and vaginal infections
  • Treatment for abnormal vaginal bleeding
  • Contraception counseling
  • Menstrual pain and irregularities
  • Menopausal management

Does Medicare Cover Pelvic Exams, Pap Smears, and Breast Exams?

Your Medicare gives you access to pelvic exams, pap smears, and breast exams. These tests check for cervical, vaginal, and breast cancer. Coverage is available for pelvic exams and pap smears once every two years. If you’ve had abnormal results in the past three years, you’ll be covered for yearly tests instead.

You’ll also be covered for clinical breast exams. Breast cancer is the most common cancer for women. Risk increases with age, and you can be cured much more easily if it is caught early on. Take advantage of free preventative care!

Additionally, you can ask your doctor for STI (sexually transmitted infection) screenings and counseling. Counseling is recommended for those who are at a higher risk. Part B covers yearly tests for the most common STIs – chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and hepatitis B, as well as HIV. STI tests are completely free with a doctor who accepts Medicare assignment.

Gynecologists Covered by Medicare

Are you ready to see a gynecologist? The best way to confirm that your gynecologist accepts Medicare as insurance is to ask when you set your first appointment, but there are tools you can use to find out who accepts Medicare before you start calling around.

Remember that if you have a Medicare Advantage or Medicare Supplement plan, you may want to check to make sure that the doctor accepts your plan. If you only have Original Medicare (parts A and B), you can use the Medicare.gov physician finder tool to look for gynecologists in your area who accept Medicare.

To start, enter your location and the phrase “gynecologist” or “ob/gyn” in the search bar. The tool will not let you enter the type of doctor you’re looking for until you’ve entered your location.

Medicare.Gov Physician Finder Tool
Medicare.Gov Physician Finder Tool

After clicking the green “search” button, you’ll see a list of doctors in your area who accept Medicare for gynecology. The tool will tell you where they are located, how far they are from the location you entered, etc.

Medicare.Gov Physician Finder Tool
Medicare.Gov Physician Finder Tool

Get Women’s Health Coverage

Fortunately, Original Medicare covers most women’s health needs. However, Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplements can supplement your Original Medicare coverage. If you are looking for additional health benefits through Medicare Advantage or financial benefits through Medicare Supplements, our licensed agents can help. They are contracted with all the major carriers so they can enroll you in a plan without bias. With Medicare Plan Finder, there’s never an obligation to enroll and appointments are always cost-free to you. Fill out this form or give us a call at 844-431-1832.

Contact Us | Medicare Plan Finder

This blog was originally published on July 20, 2017 and last updated on October 3, 2019 by Anastasia Iliou.

4 Things to Do on Your 65th Birthday to Save Money

Turning 65 is a huge milestone for many people. Not only can you qualify for Medicare, but you also may be eligible for lots of senior discounts!

You also have a lot of decisions to make. For example, the full retirement age to receive Social Security benefits used to be 65, but that’s changed to 66 ½ for people turning 65 in 2019. You must decide if you want to retire or continue working to receive full benefits. If you don’t make a decision, you could be missing out on a lot of money. Use this list of four things to do on your 65th birthday to save money now.

Turning 65 Checklist
Turning 65 Checklist

1. Enroll in a Medicare Plan.

You can potentially save thousands of dollars if you enroll in the right kind of Medicare plan on time.

When You Can Enroll in Medicare

Many people are eligible to enroll in Medicare during their Initial Enrollment Period (IEP), which is the three months before your 65th birthday, your birthday month, and the three months after your 65th birthday. Note: That IEP is only for people who qualify for Medicare because of their age. If you qualify for Medicare because you’ve been diagnosed with ALS, ESRD or you’ve received SSDI for at least 25 months, your IEP will begin when you become eligible.

If you don’t enroll during your IEP, you may face up to 10 percent of your premium costs in late enrollment penalties. However, you may be able to delay Medicare Part B enrollment if you receive coverage through your or your spouse’s employer. 

If you lose employer coverage you may be eligible for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP), which will allow you to enroll in a new plan.

That covers when you may be eligible to enroll in Medicare insurance, but you may not know what kind of policy you need. Original Medicare helps pay for many hospital and outpatient services, but it doesn’t cover everything. Many Medicare enrollees choose to add private insurance coverage to Original Medicare in order to cover the services they need.

Should I Choose Medicare Advantage or Medigap?

You may have the option of choosing a Medicare Advantage or a Medigap (Medicare Supplement) plan. Both options can help pay for items that Original Medicare does not. You cannot have both a Medicare Advantage (MA) plan and a Medicare Supplement plan, so it’s important to understand the distinction between the two:

  • Medicare Advantage can add additional benefits such as prescription drugs, hearing, dental, vision, and even fitness classes! MA plans help pay for healthcare services.
  • Medicare Supplement plans cover financial items such as coinsurance and deductibles.

It’s ultimately up to you to decide which type of plan you need, and it might be confusing. If you want help deciding which plan is right for you, a licensed agent with Medicare Plan Finder can help. Your agent will discuss your needs and can help you find a plan that fits your budget and lifestyle. Call 844-431-1832 or contact us here to set up a no-cost, no-obligation appointment.

Contact Us | Medicare Plan Finder
Contact Us | Medicare Plan Finder

2. Consider Purchasing Long-Term Care, Life, and Final Expense Insurance.

Even though it may seem uncomfortable, considering long-term care, life, and final expense insurance may be one of the most important things to do on your 65th birthday. Planning ahead can help you and your loved ones save a lot of money in the long-run.

Long-Term Care Insurance

Many people will need long-term care at some point in their lives, and it can be expensive. You may be able to save money by purchasing an insurance plan to help pay for your needs.

Original Medicare doesn’t cover long-term care unless it follows a hospital stay or it’s medically necessary. While you can use a Medicare Supplement plan to help pay for copays, some Medicare Advantage plans may offer a long-term care benefit.

Life Insurance

A life insurance policy can help your loved ones financially after you pass away. You can save money in monthly premiums the earlier you enroll depending on your type of policy.

Final Expense Insurance

While long-term care insurance can help cover medical expenses and life insurance can help your loved ones after you die,  final expense insurance helps cover funeral and burial costs. A final expense policy can help your loved ones carry out your last wishes after you pass away.

Final Expenses and Arrangements Guide
Final Expenses and Arrangements Guide

3. Sort out Your Legal Affairs.

If you haven’t already, getting your legal affairs in order is a crucial thing to do on your 65th birthday. Even though the average life expectancy in the United States is over 79 years old in 2019, accidents and chronic illnesses can  happen at any moment, unfortunately. Now is the time to get your wishes sorted out regarding healthcare and your estate. 

Think about what choices you have and how they will affect your and your loved ones’ future. Then organize your personal and medical files.

Power of Attorney

Find an elder law attorney and meet about drafting a legal will and designating your power of attorney, which is a document that allows a person of your choosing to make legal decisions on your behalf. There are different types of power of attorney that take effect in different circumstances. Your lawyer will help you assign the right kind of power of attorney to the person you choose. 

You may also want to discuss a living will (medical directive), which is a document that ensures your medical wishes are carried out, with your lawyer.

Choosing Power of Attorney | Medicare Plan Finder
Choosing Power of Attorney | Medicare Plan Finder

4. Take Advantage of Senior Discounts!

Many companies offer discounts to people just for turning 65. You can receive discounts on items ranging from restaurant meals to plane tickets. According to SeniorLiving.org, Southwest Airlines offers reduced fares for anyone 65 and older. 

You can also get discounts on prescription drugs from many pharmacies! Download this prescription drug discount card to receive huge savings on the prescriptions you use every day. 

Free Prescription Discount Card
Free Prescription Discount Card

You’re Turning 65 and Medicare Plan Finder Can Help.

If you’re turning 65, Medicare Plan Finder can help you get the insurance coverage you need. Our agents can help you determine what plan will help you save the most money. Want to learn more? Call 844-431-1832 or contact us here to arrange an appointment today.

Contact Us | Medicare Plan Finder
Contact Us | Medicare Plan Finder

How to Protect Yourself from Medicare Scams, Fraud, and Abuse

The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) will be here before you know it. AEP is the most popular time of year for beneficiaries to change or enroll in a new plan. However, this means Medicare scams, fraud, and abuse are at all all-time high. Medicare Plan Finder makes understanding these risks easy, so you feel protected year-around.

Medicare Fraud and Abuse

The government loses millions of dollars each year due to Medicare fraud and abuse. This causes Medicare prices to increase. The government has created laws to protect all parties involved in Medicare and Medicaid.

These laws promote healthy relationships between agents, carriers, and clients to prevent the insurance industry from becoming profit-based, instead of care-based. Your coverage should be more important than profits.

Medicare fraud includes:

  • Knowingly making false claims or misrepresenting data
  • Intentionally giving or receiving rewards for goods and services
  • Promoting one health service over another
  • Billing Medicare for appointments that never happened or for more than what actually happened

Medicare abuse includes:

  • Billing for unnecessary services
  • Excessive supply purchases
  • Misusing codes
Learning about Medicare Scams | Medicare Plan Finder
Learning about Medicare Scams | Medicare Plan Finder

Medicare Fraud and Abuse Laws

The government has implemented the following:

  • False Claims Act (FCA) – Protects the government from being overcharged on goods or services. No proof of intent is required.
  • Anti-Kickback Statute (AKS) – Agents cannot knowingly reward referrals for health care programs.
  • Physician Self-Referral Law (Stark Law) – Doctors cannot make referrals to health care companies in which they have an interest.
  • Criminal Health Care Fraud Statute – Cannot defraud; bill for unnecessary medical goods and services (like drugs that are not needed or wheelchairs for those who are not impaired).

What Can You Do?

Don’t become a victim! If you aren’t sure about a health agent’s validity, ask for licensing information or work with Medicare Plan Finder. To help fight Medicare fraud and abuse, report any suspicious activity to 1-800-HHS-TIPS (1-800-447-8477). You can also report the activity online.

Plan Finder Tool | Medicare Plan Finder
Plan Finder Tool | Medicare Plan Finder

Common Medicare Scams

A licensed Medicare agent is required to abide by strict rules when contacting seniors and Medicare beneficiaries. It is illegal for anyone (including an authorized Medicare agent) to show up at your front door without permission.

Also, keep in mind that no one associated with Medicare will ever call you to update your information. The following are common Medicare scams you need to look out for:

Grandparent Scam

One recent scam involves adults calling the elderly and pretending to be their grandchildren asking for money. They’ll say that they are in some form of trouble and need money.

To avoid this grandparent scam, be sure to ask for a personal detail that only your real grandchild would know the answer to. It is easy to assume you would recognize their voice, but if someone calls in a panic, your adrenaline may kick in, and their voice is the last thing you’re worried about.

Medicare Coverage Helpline Scam

In recent years, there has been a television commercial targeting current Medicare beneficiaries. The advertisement is from the “Medicare Coverage Helpline” and claims that if you have parts A and B, you are eligible for vision, dental, and prescription drug plans due to a recent Medicare health reform.

The commercial will provide a 1-800 number. Do not call that number. If you are interested in vision, dental, or prescription drug coverage, one of our licensed agents can discuss plans that are specific to your area. To get started, click here.

Medicareplans.com Scam

Medicareplans.com is an out-dated link that was a fake marketplace for those searching for a Medicare plan. While this link is no longer active, it is important to be careful when reviewing different companies and websites.

Look for websites that start with “https” instead of “http.” The “s” indicates a secure website. If you have doubts, a simple google search like “[Insert Company Name Here] Scam” can show any potential scam information.

Medicare Phone Scams

Medicare phone scams are probably the most common way that seniors and other Medicare beneficiaries are taken advantage of. In some cases, a scammer may call you and pretend to be from Medicare and offer you free services if you provide your Medicare number or Social Security number.

In other cases, a scammer who claims to be from Medicare may say that they need to validate your information to keep you from losing your benefits. The real Medicare program will never ask for this information. Never give these numbers away over the phone.

One phone scam in particular, the “can you hear me” scam, is easy to fall victim to.  The scammers use this question to get a “yes” answer from people, which they would then edit to make it seem as though they were agreeing to purchase a product or submit information. If you answer the phone and someone you don’t know asks, “Can you hear me?” hang up right away.

Medicare Refunds

Scammers will often try to catch your attention by saying you have Medicare refunds. The scammer’s goal is to get your bank information. Common reasons for Medicare refunds include changes or enhancements to Medicare or lawsuits with private insurance companies.

If for some reason you are entitled to a Medicare refund, a check will be mailed to you directly. No one will ever call asking for your bank information.

How to Avoid Medicare Scams

Medicare scams can be easily avoided. CMS (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services) suggests the following tips for avoiding scams and fraud:

  • Treat your Medicare card like a credit card. Keep it in a safe spot and never give out your number to anyone other than your doctors.
  • Do not accept an offer for free gifts or money in exchange for your Medicare information.
  • Don’t accept services that aren’t usually covered by Medicare unless a doctor that you trust tells you that it is necessary.

Will Medicare Ever Call You?

Medicare will never call you randomly and ask personal questions. If you are already covered by Medicare, they have all the information they need. If someone from Medicare needs to contact you, they will find a more official communication route.

If you have any additional questions about Medicare communication, or if who is contacting you is legitimate, contact a Medicare customer service representative at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).

Medicare Scams | Medicare Plan Finder
Medicare Scams | Medicare Plan Finder

Free Stuff for Seniors From the Government

Seniors and Medicare beneficiaries can fall into specific categories that scammers will use to their benefit. Scammers will sometimes call pretending to be from the government and offer free health checkups or free medical supplies.

During these fake calls, they will use common senior health conditions to act like they know specific details about your health. The scammer has no idea you have diabetes or high blood pressure; all they know is that a handful of seniors have those conditions. Scammers are hoping you will also fall into that category.

Some scammers have been known to give names and addresses of your doctor. It is unknown how they receive this information. Even if the caller ID looks reputable, don’t trust them so quickly.

Technology has continued to evolve and faking caller ID has become easier and easier. Don’t trust if someone says they are providing free products or services from the government. Scammers will say all you have to pay for is shipping costs, then get access to your credit card information.

How to Stop Medicare Phone Calls

As we mentioned, Medicare will not call you without your permission. If you receive a phone call about your Medicare plan, but did not consent to a call, it is likely a scam.

To help prevent calls from unknown numbers, don’t answer unknown numbers unless you’re expecting a call from a legitimate company (like us!). You will receive a voicemail if the call is legitimate.

If you have a smartphone, you can download apps that detect scam calls and block the calls instantly. You can also put your number on the National Do Not Call Registry.

How to Block Specific Numbers

Both iPhone and Android users can block specific numbers from calling. This is a useful tool because many scam callers will cycle through phone numbers. Once you block a number, you will not receive calls from that number unless you unblock it.

How to Block Phone Numbers on an iPhone

First go to you to your most recent calls. Then find the number you want to block and tap the “i” icon. That will lead you to the contact information associated with that phone number.

That will lead you to your most recent calls. Then find the number you want to block and tap the “i” icon. That will lead you to the contact information associated with that phone number.

How to Block Phone Numbers on an iPhone Step 1 | Medicare Plan Finder
How to Block Phone Numbers on an iPhone Step 1 | Medicare Plan Finder

Then scroll down to where you see “Block this Caller” and tap on the words.

How to Block Phone Numbers on an iPhone Step 2 | Medicare Plan Finder
How to Block Phone Numbers on an iPhone Step 2 | Medicare Plan Finder

The final step is verifying that you want to block the caller.

 How to Block Phone Numbers on an iPhone Step 3 | Medicare Plan Finder
How to Block Phone Numbers on an iPhone Step 3 | Medicare Plan Finder

How to Block Phone Numbers on an Android

First, go to your most recent calls. Then tap the “i” icon under the phone number you want to block.

How to Block Phone Numbers on an Android Step 1 | Medicare Plan Finder
How to Block Phone Numbers on an Android Step 1 | Medicare Plan Finder

Then tap the three dots as shown below.

How to Block Phone Numbers on an Android Step 2 | Medicare Plan Finder
How to Block Phone Numbers on an Android Step 2 | Medicare Plan Finder

Then select “Block.”

 How to Block Phone Numbers on an Android Step 3 | Medicare Plan Finder
How to Block Phone Numbers on an Android Step 3 | Medicare Plan Finder

Medicare Helpline

Protecting yourself from Medicare scams may seem like an impossible task. Now that you understand the common Medicare scams you will know what to watch out for.

If you are ever suspicious or have questions regarding Medicare fraud, call the Medicare Helpline. They can answer any questions you may have. The Medicare Helpline is a 24-hour toll-free line and can be reached at 1-800-MEDICARE.

Also, you can help eliminate Medicare fraud by reporting suspicious activity. Call the Medicare fraud line at 1-800-447-8477 or report the incident online.

Enroll in Medicare

The risks of Medicare scams does not lower the importance of proper Medicare coverage. We are dedicated to helping you choose the best plan from all of the options available in your area. Why do we need your information?

  • Zip Code: We need this because Medicare plans are different in every zip code.
  • County: We ask for your county because sometimes zip codes fall into more than one county.
  • Email and Phone Number: We ask for your contact information because we want to have a conversation with you about helping you find a great health plan.
  • Birthday: Sometimes we’ll ask for your birthday to help us ensure that you qualify for Medicare benefits.

Medicare Plan Finder and other legitimate resources will not ask for your Social Security Number or Medicare number before speaking with you. If someone who you do not know asks for your SSN or Medicare number, do not give out that information until you know that it is safe to do so.

We are here to discuss the best Medicare coverage for your needs and budget. If you’re interested in speaking with a licensed Medicare agent or scheduling a free no-obligation appointment, fill out this form or call us at 844-431-1832.

This blog was originally published on 10/1/18, and was updated on 8/21/19.

10 Great Apps for People With Dementia and Alzheimer’s

Dementia and Alzheimer’s are extremely debilitating disorders that severely hinder a person’s person’s quality of life. Dementia is an umbrella term for several disorders that can cause memory loss and other symptoms. One of the most common subsets of dementia is Alzheimer’s, which is a degenerative physical deterioration of the brain.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 33 percent of seniors die with Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia, and the tech world has taken note.  Developers have created smartphone apps to help make your life a little easier. These 10 apps for people with dementia cannot cure the condition. They can, however, help slow memory loss and help you regain confidence.

1. Mindmate

Mindmate is a cognitive health maintenance app for people with dementia. It’s based on “world-leading science,” according to the developers.

The app features interactive games that are designed to stimulate the problem-solving, memory and attention centers of the brain.

Along with fun games, the app includes exercise programs, nutrition tips, and recipes. You can set goals and track your progress on the app, too, which makes Mindmate a pretty comprehensive brain health app.

2. My Reef 3D

My Reef 3D is great for people in the advanced stages of dementia. The app is a game that allows you to interact with 14 different types of fish. You can stock the aquarium and even tap on the glass to see how the fish react! Much like a real aquarium, you can sit back and watch the fish.

Many dementia sufferers won’t be able to pay attention to TV programs, but this app provides just enough stimuli to keep the user entertained.

3. Lumosity

Apps for People With Dementia | Medicare Plan Finder
Apps for People With Dementia | Medicare Plan Finder

Lumosity is a fantastic app for anyone with dementia. It’s a brain training program that uses daily games to test your critical thinking, memory, and problem-solving skills. The app analyzes your strengths and weaknesses and provides “carefully-curated sets of games made for you,” according to Lumosity’s website.

Along with the games, Lumosity features mindfulness training such as meditation techniques to help you relax and gain mental clarity.

4. MediSafe

MediSafe is a great app for people with short- and long-term memory loss. Remembering when to take medications, knowing if you’ve already taken them, and realizing when it’s time to re-order prescription drugs can be a challenge for people with dementia. 

MediSafe provides alerts so people can manage their prescriptions safely. For example, the app notifies your caregiver if you miss a medication for the day, or if any of your prescription drugs shouldn’t be taken together.

5. Game Show

Game Show was developed by the University of Cambridge, and some studies have shown that it can help with the early stages of dementia. Users with dementia showed a 40 percent increase in memory and thinking test scores. The app is not a cure for dementia, but it can help slow down the progression of memory and thinking loss.

Along with social interaction and other mentally stimulating activities, mental games may help slow memory loss and keep your mind sharp.

6. Happify

Apps for People With Dementia | Medicare Plan Finder
Apps for People With Dementia | Medicare Plan Finder

Living with dementia can be stressful. Happify uses science-based games and activities to help encourage positive thinking and reduce stress. The app’s tools and programs aim to improve emotional well-being.

Leading scientists and experts in the fields of positive psychology and cognitive behavioral therapy developed Happify’s techniques after decades of research. According to the app’s website, 86 percent of people who used Happify on a regular basis reported feeling better about their lives in two months.

7. Iridis

Stirling University developed Iridis to help people prepare their homes to make life with dementia easier. The app offers advice on how to improve color contrast, and furniture and lighting tips to help you deal with your symptoms. 

For example, many people with dementia experience loss of appetite as a symptom. Using dishes that contrast in color with your food can help you remember to eat. You may have vision problems, too, and the app will suggest what kind of lightbulbs you should use to make things easier to see.

You can use Iridis to evaluate your home and determine what changes you should make. The app provides a detailed report with recommendations so you or your caregiver can make the best choices to support your condition.

8. Timeless

According to Timeless, this app is a “first-of-its-kind, simple, easy-to-use app for Alzheimer’s patients to remember events, stay connected and engaged with friends and family, and to recognize people through artificial intelligence-based facial recognition technology.”

The app is developed to help Alzheimer’s patients improve their quality of life. The app is simple and helps the user remember events and appointments, and stay connected with friends and family. 

Timeless makes use of AI technology to help the user remember faces and names. The face recognition helps to slow down memory loss. Many users may find that the app helps improve their confidence because they’re able to associate their loved ones’ names with their faces.

9. Alzheimer Society’s Talking Point Forum

The Alzheimer’s Society’s Talking Point Forum is a free app developed by the Alzheimer’s Society in the UK. It’s an app for people with dementia and Alzheimer’s that provides a discussion forum.

The app acts as a meeting and discussion place for people to read others’ experiences, ask for advice, share their thoughts, and join in conversations about the issues dementia patients face every day.

The main function of the app is to provide users with a sense of community and help them understand that they aren’t alone. The app can act as a digital support group where people who suffer from dementia and Alzheimer’s can talk to others who understand their situation.

10. A Walk Through Dementia

A Walk Through Dementia helps non-sufferers understand what people with dementia and Alzheimer’s experience. The app was created by Alzheimer’s Research UK and VISYON, and offers insight into the condition with a virtual, immersive platform.

It uses a combination of CGI and 360-degree imaging to see what life is like for Alzheimer’s sufferers.

It uses three scenarios to help users get an idea of what their loved one is going through: 1. The experience buying ingredients at the grocery store. 2. Taking the ingredients home. 3. Using the ingredients to make tea for their family.

This app will help your loved ones better relate to you and empathize with your situation.

Dementia Apps and Medicare Health Insurance to Help Make Life Easier

Along with the above apps for people with dementia and Alzheimer’s, a comprehensive health insurance plan can help make your life easier. If you qualify for Medicare or have durable power of attorney for someone who does, we can help you find a policy that will fit your budget and lifestyle. 

Our licensed agents at Medicare Plan Finder are dedicated to helping you learn about the plans available in your area. Call 844-431-1832 or contact us here to find out more today.

The Shocking Truth About Medicare and Dermatology

Does Medicare cover dermatology?

Medicare coverage for dermatology can be quite limited. If you or your loved one needs treatment NOW, take a look at your coverage before it’s too late and you’re stuck with a big bill!

Medicare Part B can cover some dermatology services. If your condition is medically necessary, Part B will cover doctor services relating to evaluating, diagnosing, or treating skin conditions. Medicare will not cover cosmetic treatments, and it will only cover skin cancer screenings if you are showing symptoms.

How Does Medicare Cover Dermatologist Visits?

Dermatologist and Patient | Medicare Plan Finder
Dermatologist and Patient | Medicare Plan Finder

For dermatology-related services, you will have to meet your Part B deductible first. For most people in 2019, the deductible will be $185.

Then, Medicare will usually pay 80% of the service cost. You will be responsible for the remaining 20%. For Medicare to cover that 80%, your dermatologist or physician must accept Medicare assignment. Your doctor should be able to tell you whether or not they accept assignment, but if you’re not sure, your insurance carrier or insurance agent can help you.

Some Medicare Supplement (otherwise known as Medigap) plans can cover the rest of your costs, like your deductible and the remaining 20%. If you’re interested in investing in a Medigap policy, one of our agents can help. Click here to get started on setting up your free Medicare Plan Finder appointment.

Uniquely, Medicare plans are now able to cover MyPath, a genetic test for malignant melanoma.

How Much Does It Cost to Go to a Dermatologist With Medicare?

Dermatology costs vary based on what insurance you have, where you live, and what services you need. If you have Medicare (demonstrated above), you will likely be responsible for 20% of services. Some dermatologists accept Medicaid as well.

Keep in mind that in the cases of Medicare and Medicaid, your care will most likely not be covered unless it is determined to be medically necessary. For example, acne care is not generally considered a medically necessary treatment plan, but skin cancer removal is.

Thankfully, dermatology visits are not typically wallet-breaking. Depending on what doctor you see, where you live, and what services you require, The Law Dictionary says you may only need to pay between $100 and $200, which is a low cost compared to other health services, like hospital stays.

Do You Need a Dermatologist?

We’re not doctors, but chances are that if you’re asking this question, you should go and see a dermatologist.

Some skin conditions that you may start to notice as you age are dry and itchy skin, benign growths, loose skin (especially around the eyes, cheeks, and jawline), transparent or thin skin, spotting, wrinkles, and easy bruising.

While those are all certainly typical signs of aging, there are steps you can take to keep your skin healthy and prevent further damage, like:

  1. Don’t stay in direct sunlight for long periods of time.
  2. Always use a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher when spending time outdoors.
  3. Stay away from tanning beds.
  4. Check your skin or have a loved one check your skin for new growths or moles that appear to be changing in color or size.
  5. See a dermatologist whenever you face a new concern!

Questions to Ask Your Dermatologist

Patient Asking Dermatologist Questions | Medicare Plan Finder
Patient Asking Dermatologist Questions | Medicare Plan Finder

Knowing what questions to ask your doctor can be a challenge, especially if you are really unsure of what’s wrong. We searched the internet and compiled this list of questions you may want to ask your dermatologist:

  • What foods should I avoid for my skin health? What should I be eating more of?
  • How can I slow down signs of aging, like wrinkles and dark spots?
  • Are my freckles and moles cancerous?
  • How can I check my own moles and how do I know when to call you?
  • What lotions and sunscreens do you recommend?
  • These are the skin products I use now (list sunscreens, lotions, exfoliators, makeup, etc.). Are they damaging?

How to Find a Dermatologist

To find a dermatologist near you, you can visit a site like “doctor.com” or perform a Google search. Usually, searching for “dermatologist near me” pulls up reasonable results. For example, these are the results when we searched from our office in Nashville.

Dermatologist Near Me | Medicare Plan Finder

Once you’ve looked at reviews and found some good dermatologists in your area, make sure they accept Medicare. If you have another plan that you’re using, like Medicare Advantage, make sure the dermatologist is in your plan network.

Dermatologists are specialists. If you have an HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) plan, you may need a referral from your primary physician before you can see a dermatologist. If you aren’t sure whether or not you need a referral or if you need help finding a dermatologist that is in your network, call your insurance agent!

A highly trained, licensed insurance agent can help you walk through the process of finding providers in your network and can help you make sure you have all the coverage you need. Don’t have an insurance agent? To set up an appointment with your new agent, give us a call at 844-431-1832

Contact Us | Medicare Plan Finder
Contact Us | Medicare Plan Finder

*This post was originally published on June 28, 2018, and updated on July 3, 2019.

3 Heart Health Resources you Should use

It’s never too late to start making good decisions regarding your heart health. As you age, your risk of developing heart disease dramatically increases.

You can help manage the risk by taking an active role in maintaining your heart health, and using the free resources you have at your disposal, including:

1. Medicare Preventive Services for a Healthy Heart

Man at Medicare Wellness Visit | Medicare Plan Finder
Man at Medicare Wellness Visit | Medicare Plan Finder

Your doctor may be your best resource for keeping your heart healthy. Did you know you can get a free wellness exam every year if you have Medicare insurance?

The Medicare Annual Wellness Visit (AWV) may include measurements of your height, weight, BMI and blood pressure, which can help identify your risk of developing heart disease. During your AWV, your doctor can discuss action plans for your diet and exercise in order to help minimize your risk of developing a heart condition.

Medicare will also cover blood tests for cholesterol once every five years. The heart screening will measure your cholesterol, triglyceride and lipid levels. An electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG) will give your doctor a picture of your heartbeat. EKGs fall under medically necessary diagnostic testing. Medicare will pay for an EKG if your doctor orders one.

Work with your doctor to develop a diet and exercise plan. Medicare will cover medically necessary obesity screenings and nutrition counseling.

Some private health insurance policies called Medicare Advantage plans will cover fitness classes along with all of the wellness services Original Medicare covers. Talk to an agent about finding a Medicare Advantage plan that will allow you to keep your doctor and access every service you need.

2. Risk Tracking for an Accurate Picture of Heart Health

The American College of Cardiology offers CardioSmart for free. The website features a BMI calculator, a Heart Disease Risk Assesment, and a Cholesterol Calculator online (as well as a “Med Reminder” app to remind you to take your medication).

As you age, it becomes more important to track your weight, your cholesterol levels, and your overall diet. Additionally, you should look at your family medical history. Find out what kind of genetic risk you have for developing heart disease. If you have immediate family members with a history of heart conditions, that may indicate that you have a greater risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

3. Take Control of Your Diet and Exercise

Heart-Healthy Foods and Exercise Equipment | Medicare Plan Finder
Heart-Healthy Foods and Exercise Equipment | Medicare Plan Finder

Your risk for heart disease is closely linked to your weight. If you’re overweight or obese, you have a much greater chance of developing heart disease, and losing weight is one of the most effective ways to help prevent heart disease.

A 10 percent weight loss significantly reduces your heart disease risk. Consistent calorie tracking is one of the most important steps in losing weight successfully. It may seem difficult to track what you eat, but there are hundreds of tools out there that can help you. If you are at risk for heart disease, you’ll want to focus on eating lean proteins while cutting down on fats and sodium and increasing your fiber intake (whole grains, fruits and vegetables).

You can create your own tracking system by writing down what you eat every day, or you can try using an app that will store your information and help you figure out your caloric intake. MyFitnessPal is one example of a free app that is easy to use.

All you have to do is enter the foods you eat and any exercise you complete throughout the day. It’ll track your nutrition and your calories and tell you if you’re eating too much or not eating enough of any specific food group. The MyFitnessPal mobile app even has a feature that allows you to scan a package’s barcode and upload the food’s nutritional information.

Let us Help

A comprehensive health insurance plan is a great resource to help you stay healthy. Medicare Plan Finder agents can help you find a plan that covers the services you need while fitting your budget and lifestyle. Call us at 844-431-1832 or contact us here to learn more.

Contact Us | Medicare Plan Finder
Contact Us | Medicare Plan Finder

This post was originally published on October 12, 2017, by Anastasia Iliou and was updated on June 13, 2019, by Troy Frink.

Prescription Help for Medicare Beneficiaries

For many people, prescription drugs are the most expensive part of health care. Some medications are so expensive that many people stop taking their prescriptions, and their health problems get worse. Thankfully, there are options for prescription help for Medicare beneficiaries.

Apply for LIS

You might be qualified for Extra Help, or Low Income Subsidy (LIS). Extra Help is a Medicare savings program based on income level. If your yearly income and total assets are at or below 150 percent of the federal poverty level, you may qualify for LIS. Some beneficiaries have saved nearly $4,000 per year by enrolling in LIS. If you’re not sure if you’re qualified, speak to your agent! We can help you look over the qualifications and go through the application process.

If you qualify for LIS, you might also qualify for Medicaid. If you’re eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid, you qualify for Dual Special Needs Plans (DSNP), which are a type of Medicare Advantage plan. DSNPs typically provide coverage for doctor appointments, hospital services and prescription medications.

If you have a DSNP, you will also qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP), which allows you to enroll in new plans or make changes to your existing coverage at any time throughout the year, rather than having to wait for certain times.

Special Needs Plans | Medicare Plan Finder
Special Needs Plans | Medicare Plan Finder

Change Your Medicare Plan

If you don’t qualify for a SEP, you will have to wait for the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) to make changes to your coverage or enroll in a new plan. Original Medicare does not provide prescription drug coverage. However, Medicare Part D or certain private insurance policies called Medicare Advantage plans cover medications and provide prescription help for seniors on Medicare.

Private insurance carriers offer Medicare Advantage (MA) plans to pick up where Original Medicare falls short. Along with prescription drugs, some MA plans can provide coverage for vision, dental, transportation and even fitness classes. Talk to your licensed agent to find a plan that fits your budget and lifestyle.

Medicare Advantage | Medicare Plan Finder
Medicare Advantage | Medicare Plan Finder

Consider a Plan With Gap Insurance

The donut hole is a limit on what your prescription drug plan will cover, and it applies to all Medicare clients who don’t have Extra Help. The donut hole will be going away in 2020, but for now, here’s a cost breakdown for 2019:

You will pay for 100 percent of your drug costs until you hit your deductible, which is $435 in 2020. Once you meet your deductible, you will only pay a small percentage of your drug costs until you’ve spent $4,020. At that point, you enter the you will pay up to 25 percent for brand-name drugs and up to 25 percent of generic drugs until you reach $6,350. At that point, you will only be responsible for five percent of your drug costs for the rest of the year.

Some Medicare plans offer additional coverage to protect you from the donut hole. That’s something you can ask your agent about when you meet to discuss your coverage options!

Rx Discount Card | Medicare Plan Finder
Rx Discount Card | Medicare Plan Finder

Request Generic Drugs

Most drugs that your doctor prescribes will have a generic counterpart that works just as well. In fact, the FDA requires that generic drugs have the same level of quality and performance as their brand name counterparts. Brand name drugs are more expensive because the companies that manufacture them had to pay for research and development. They pass those costs onto the consumer.

Ask your doctor if he or she prescribed a name-brand or a generic drug. If your doctor is willing to switch from a brand name to a generic, you might be able to save hundreds of dollars every year!

Let Us Help

Prescription help for seniors on Medicare can come from changing your Medicare Plan, Extra Help or from buying cheaper prescriptions. A highly trained licensed agent with Medicare Plan Finder can help you find a plan that’s right for you. To set up an appointment, call us at 844-431-1832 or contact us here today.

Find Medicare Plans | Medicare Plan Finder
Find Medicare Plans | Medicare Plan Finder

This post was originally published on October 26, 2017, by Anastasia Iliou and was updated on May 23, 2019, by Troy Frink.

Can you get Medicare Overseas Coverage?

Are you planning a summer trip to Europe? Finally going on an African safari now that you’re retired? We hope you have some great vacation time planned, but we really hope you stay safe while you’re out there enjoying yourself! For the most part, Original Medicare will only cover your care that occurs within the United States (including Puerto Rico, The U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Guam, and The Northern Marina Islands), so it’s important to think about your healthcare options before you head abroad.

Original Medicare overseas coverage is extremely limited, but you will be covered if:

  • If you are in the U.S. during a medical emergency but a foreign hospital is closer
  • If you are in Canada on a direct route to Alaska (and far from an American hospital)
  • If you’re on a cruise ship and less than six hours from an American port
  • If you have a Medicare Advantage plan with foreign coverage
  • If you have a Medicare Supplement with foreign travel insurance

Do you have the coverage you need in case you get sick or injured while you’re out of the United States?

Medicare Advantage Foreign Travel Coverage

Private insurance carriers offer Medicare Advantage (MA) plans to add additional benefits to your Medicare coverage (and may include coverage abroad). Original Medicare only covers hospital and limited medical expenses, but MA plans can include dental, vision, meal delivery, fitness classes, and even foreign travel coverage.

There are thousands of MA plans to choose from, but not all of them include Medicare overseas coverage. MA plans are different in every state, county, and zip code. Reach out to us for more information on what’s available in your area.

Medicare Advantage | Medicare Plan Finder
Medicare Advantage | Medicare Plan Finder

Medicare Supplements Foreign Travel Insurance

Like MA plans, Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans also offer coverage beyond Original Medicare. The difference is that MA plans cover medical expenses, but Medigap plans cover expenses such as deductibles and coinsurance. You cannot have a Medicare Supplement plan if you have a MA plan, so it’s smart to talk to a licensed agent to find out which type of plan is best for your budget and lifestyle.

Find Medicare Supplements | Medicare Plan Finder
Find Medicare Supplements | Medicare Plan Finder

Medigap plans D, E, G, H, I, J, M, and N may cover up to 80 percent of your overseas costs if you meet the plan’s foreign travel deductible (plans C and F include this benefit as well but will be removed from the market in 2020). The expenses will only be covered if they occur within the first two months of your stay overseas, provided Original Medicare doesn’t already cover them. These Medigap plans come with a $50,000 lifetime limit on overseas travel insurance benefits.

Medicare Supplement Plans Comparison Chart | Medicare Plan Finder
Medicare Supplement Plans Comparison Chart | Medicare Plan Finder

How to Prepare for Traveling Abroad

Unfortunately, our planet is covered in bacteria and viruses that can harm our bodies. Those bacteria and viruses don’t live everywhere, though, which means our immune systems haven’t been exposed to them. Therefore, our bodies don’t know how to fight foreign diseases. That’s why you need vaccinations for foreign diseases before you leave the country.

Visit your primary care physician and tell them where you’re going and how long you’ll be there. Medicare will cover your pre-vacation doctor visit where he or she will give you a list of vaccinations to consider.

Along with getting the proper vaccinations before you travel, your doctor may recommend you bring medications for common illnesses you may find at your destination, or for other things that may ail you during your trip. For example, let’s say you’re going on a tropical cruise. Your doctor may recommend you bring mosquito repellant, sunscreen, and motion sickness medicine.

If you have concerns about serious injuries or illnesses during your vacation, consider purchasing a Medicare Advantage or Medigap plan that has coverage for foreign healthcare. You’ll have peace of mind knowing your treatment will be covered.

We Can Help

If you’re planning on traveling to an area where Original Medicare won’t cover your medical treatment, you might want to consider purchasing a plan with foreign travel insurance. If you have questions about Medicare overseas coverage, call an agent at 844-431-1832 or contact us here. We hope you stay safe and enjoy your travels!

Contact Us | Medicare Plan Finder
Contact Us | Medicare Plan Finder

This post was originally published on June 01, 2017, and was updated by Troy Frink on May 20, 2019.

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