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.
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.
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 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.
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.”
Click “Show All Results ” on the next page.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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2020 Medicare Changes & Trump’s Executive Order
Every year, CMS (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services) reserves the right to make changes to the Medicare program. Rules and regulations around enrollment periods, penalty fees, marketing, and plan benefits are released in late summer and early fall for the following year. Costs can rise, and brand new plans can enter or leave the market.
Medicare is confusing as it is. When you add these yearly changes into the mix, choosing the right plan can be stressful. Our goal is to make all of this less stressful for you. Our website is a great educational tool, and our licensed agents can provide free assistance!
Here are the changes you need to know about for Medicare in 2020.
On October 3, 2019, President Donald Trump signed an executive order “protecting” the Medicare program. What does this mean?
Alex Azar, Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary, said that Trump told HHS to take “specific, significant steps” towards improving Medicare funding and improving healthcare for American seniors. These steps include lowering Medicare Advantage costs, allowing savings accounts, and improving access to new medical technology. It also leaves room for more plan options, more telehealth, more wellness benefits, and a stronger financial model.
In his post-executive order speech given in Florida yesterday morning, Trump stated, “In my campaign for president, I made you a sacred pledge that I would strengthen, protect and defend Medicare for all of our senior citizens.” That was the intent of the executive order.
Is Medicare Going Up in 2020?
New 2020 Medicare premiums and costs for 2020 have not been released yet. The new numbers are usually released in early fall of the year prior, so we are expecting to see them over the coming months. The Wall Street Journal reported in April that 2020 Medicare Part B premiums are likely to increase by $8.80/month to a total of $144.30, but this is not final.
We will continue to update this post with new 2020 costs as they are released. Thank you for your patience!
2020 Medigap Changes
Just like the Original Medicare program, private plans like Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplements, and standalone benefit plans can change every year.
Plan availability may not be the same for everyone. Medigap eligibility, in particular, can depend on your age when you enroll, preexisting conditions, and where you live. Plans can be different not only in every state but also in every county and zip code.
Use our plan finder tool to find out what Medigap plans are available in your area for 2020.
Is Medicare Supplement Plan F Going Away in 2020?
Starting in 2020, you will no longer be able to purchase Medigap Plan F or Medigap Plan C. Plan F was one of the most popular plans, and Plan C was fairly similar. The plans are going away because they include coverage for the Part B deductible (only $185 in 2019).
You might here plans C and F referred to as “first-dollar” plans because they virtually eliminate out-of-pocket costs. CMS decided that taking away the Part B deductible coverage was a smart move to discourage people from overusing their primary physician offices and costing the Medicare program a lot of money for unnecessary doctor’s visits.
If you already have Medigap Plan F or Medigap Plan C, you can be grandfathered in. That means that you will not lose your coverage in 2020. However, if you leave your Plan F or Plan C in favor of a different Medigap plan, you won’t be able to re-enroll in F or C.
Will Plan F Premiums Rise After 2020?
As Plan F sees less and less enrollees, Plan F premiums will likely begin to rise. We can’t say this for sure and we will certainly have to wait and see what happens, but generally less enrollees means higher costs for the companies, resulting in higher premiums.
Will There be a High Deductible Plan G in 2020?
Since people will not be able to purchase Plan F or Plan C in 2020, CMS did want there to be another option with similar benefits. Plan G was already that option, given that the only difference is that Plan G does not cover the Part B deductible.
The other difference is that previously, Plan G was not offered with a high-deductible. If you typically have low medical costs, you may prefer a high-deductible option. Having a high deductible often means that your premiums will be lower. This way, you don’t have to pay as much until you start experiencing health concerns. The high deductible Plan G option can replace the high deductible F option.
Donut Hole Closing in 2020
In addition to all of these plan changes, the infamous “Donut Hole” will be effectively closing in 2020. The Bipartisan Budget Act of 2019 closed the coverage gap for brand-name drugs in 2019, and the generic drug coverage gap will be eliminated in 2020. This basically means that, if you have a Medicare Part D plan, you will only be responsible for 25% of your covered prescription drug costs instead of 44%.
2020 Medicare Advantage Changes
There may be more Medicare Advantage plan changes to come in 2020, but we wanted to make sure you had heard about the changes from last year.
On October 12, 2018, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) announced the 2019 Original Medicare premium and deductible increase, but what about Medicare Advantage (MA) plans? Unlike Medicare Part A and B, beneficiaries enrolled in MA plans may see a decrease in their premiums in 2019 and 2020 compared to 2018.
2020Medicare Advantage Cost Changes and 2020 Premiums
In September of 2018, CMS announced that on average, Medicare Advantage premiums will decrease by 6%. This is great for beneficiaries interested in affordable vision, dental, and hearing coverage or even fitness classes like SilverSneakers®!
CMS estimated that 83% of beneficiaries would have equal or lower premiums for 2019 and 46% will have a $0 premium! Premiums for MA plans have steadily declined, and this is the lowest premium we’ve seen in three years. This is a perfect example of a private and public collaboration that allows beneficiaries to drive and define the value. The 2019 Medicare Advantage changes are a quick glance of what you can expect to continue in the future.
2020 cost changes for Part A and B premiums and deductibles have not officially been released yet but are not expected to increase by very much. We will continue to monitor this information and will update as soon as the cost changes are officially announced.
Early in 2018, CMS (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services) released new rules that allow Medicare Advantage plans to offer a few benefits, like “daily maintenance,” transportation, telehealth, and durable medical equipment.
Some plans in 2020* are really going above and beyond, offering benefits like new air conditioners and pest control!
*These benefits are not included in all MA plans. Your agent may be able to help you find a plan that includes more.
Daily Maintenance
The addition of the “daily maintenance” benefit means that Medicare Advantage plans are now able to offer at-home care items, such as wheelchair ramps and other home modifications. Tied in with that benefit are other forms of durable medical equipment, like hospital beds, oxygen equipment, blood sugar monitors, etc, as well as “non-skilled” services. Non-skilled refers to items that do not require a licensed doctor or nurse, such as aides who can assist with bathing and dressing or homemakers who can help with cleaning and cooking.
Non-Emergency Medical Transportation Coverage
CMS has also added the ability for MA plans to provide non-emergency transportation coverage, a service that several Medicaid plans provide. This benefit (if your plan covers it) will allow you to receive free or low-cost rides to medical appointments and pharmacies. In most cases, you can only qualify for this benefit if you do not have another adequate means of transportation. The appointment that you are requesting a ride to must be for a Medicare-covered service.
Telemedicine and Telehealth
MA plans can now provide coverage for telehealth. That means you can have live video interaction with your doctor through digital clinics like HealthTap, Teladoc, and MDLive. Telehealth can also include health alerts delivered to your phone, health education apps, electronic medical data transfers, mail-order prescriptions, digital appointment scheduling and exam reminders, and more.
New Enrollment Period (OEP)
Before 2019, most people were only able to switch into new Medicare Advantage plans during the Annual Enrollment Period in the fall. Now, if you already have a Medicare Advantage plan, you may be eligible to make a change during OEP. OEP, or the Open Enrollment Period, takes place from January 1 through March 31. During this time, you can switch from one Medicare Advantage plan to another or drop your Medicare Advantage plan in favor of Original Medicare (Part A and Part B only).
Future of Medicare Advantage Plans
According to the Henry J Kaiser Family Foundation, enrollment has tripled to 19 million beneficiaries since 2003 and continues to grow each year. CMS estimates that MA enrollment will hit an all-time high of 22.6 million beneficiaries in 2019 (an 11.5% increase)!
As enrollment continues to increase, plan selection and variety increase too, with approximately 600 new plans offered in 2019! 99% of seniors and Medicare-eligibles have access to a MA plan – and 91% can choose from 10 or more plan options. Beneficiaries will not only see more plans to choose from, but also new supplemental Medicare benefits!
Enroll in a Medicare Advantage Plan in 2020
Are you interested in getting coverage beyond Original Medicare? Along with the new benefits, many Medicare Advantage plans offer dental, hearing, and vision coverage.
Our agents at Medicare Plan Finder can contract with nearly every carrier in your state! This means that you can enroll in the MA plan that best fits your needs and budget.
The Annual Enrollment Period runs from October 15 through December 7. Start looking over your plan benefits now so that you’re ready to enroll before December 7!
Ready to learn more? Call us at 844-431-1832 or fill out this form to arrange a no-cost, no-obligation appointment with an agent in your area.
*This post was originally posted on November 8, 2018, and was last updated on October 4, 2019.
The 4 Vaccines Seniors Need This Year
Every year when the temperature drops, you begin to hear those dreaded words: flu season.
Not only does cold weather weaken our immune systems, it can strengthen viruses and make it easier for them to spread. No matter your age, vaccination may be the best safeguard against this bacterial onslaught. But adults over 50 are especially susceptible to the flu virus and many other dangerous infections like pneumonia and tetanus. An estimated 50,000 to 90,000 adults in the United States die from vaccine-preventable diseases every year and the mortality rates increase significantly as we age.
The Most Important Vaccines For Seniors
Luckily, in our current century, vaccinations are widely available for many of these potentially deadly pathogens and the Center for Disease Control recommends a schedule of specific vaccinations for older adults. And for seniors with certain types of Medicare, financial help may even be available to alleviate some of the costs of these immunizations. Here are the four most crucial vaccines for adults over 50.
Influenza (Flu) Shot
Influenza, commonly called the flu, is a viral respiratory infection that can be life-threatening for people of any age. But older adults must be especially cautious, as the normal aging of our immune systems can make it more difficult for our bodies to fight off the infection. It’s even more dangerous for those who live with a chronic condition like heart disease or diabetes, as complications can develop and even lead to hospitalization. In fact, according to the CDC, adults over 65 make up half of all influenza hospitalizations and between 70 to 90% of all flu-related deaths. Be sure to get your flu shot!
Pneumococcal Vaccine
Pneumococcal disease might not be a familiar household name but we have all heard of the conditions that it can lead to: pneumonia and meningitis among others. It is the most common cause of bloodstream infections and can infect the ear and sinuses as well. Like the flu, a weakened immune system and chronic conditions may increase these risks. While these infections can often be mild, pneumonia is actually the 5th most frequent cause of hospitalization in the United States and over half of those are from Americans over 65 years old.
Tetanus (Td) Shot
It’s often referred to simply as a tetanus shot, but the Tdap vaccine also helps our bodies fight off diphtheria and pertussis, or whooping cough. This particular vaccine can usually only be given once but if you never received it as a child, it’s not too late to get yourself immunized. But if those over 65 have already gotten the full Tdap shot, it is recommended that they seek the variety of vaccine called the Td shot every 10 years, which doesn’t include the pertussis component.
Shingles (Zoster) Vaccine
Herpes zoster (or shingles) is a painful skin condition brought on by the same virus that causes chickenpox. It’s common knowledge that individuals who have previously contracted chickenpox have a higher risk of developing shingles, but older people are also more vulnerable than their younger counterparts. Seniors are also more at risk for the complications that can arise from this infection, such as the painful nerve condition called postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). These kinds of complications occur in almost half of older adults who develop shingles.
When Should Seniors Get Vaccinated?
Though many vaccine-preventable diseases are associated with seasonal changes, most can be contracted at any time of year. To help make sure you are up-to-date with all your immunizations, the CDC keeps the newest recommended vaccine schedule for adults on its website.
Vaccine Schedule For Adults
Experts in this field often suggest vaccination schedules based on age. In some cases, these experts also recommend different varieties of a given vaccine depending on the age of the patient.
For example, flu vaccines are updated annually to make sure they are effective against the current strains of influenza. Additionally, the immunity provided by the flu shot is short-lived so it is best to get vaccinated every year. Flu vaccines are usually available from September through April depending on supplies. Several different forms of the vaccine exist including two designed specifically for people over 65, namely the “high dose vaccine” and the adjuvanted flu vaccine.
The shingles vaccine, on the other hand, is not required during a specific season but there are multiple variations available and it may still require a schedule to keep track of. The CDC suggests that healthy adults over 50 get the two-dose version of the vaccine, called the zoster recombinant vaccine (or RZV), as opposed to the single-dose zoster live variant. The two doses are generally spaced out over several months but are roughly 90% effective once they have both been administered.
Travel Vaccinations
Many seniors take up traveling after retirement has freed up more of their time. Wherever this trekking may take you, it is wise to stay up-to-date on your vaccinations. Certain vaccine-preventable illnesses like measles and seasonal flu are much more prevalent abroad than they are in the States. Check for your destination on the CDC’s website to see what vaccines may be needed where you’re going.
Now that you know when to get immunized, you might be wondering where you can get a quick, efficient, and affordable vaccination. This can get somewhat complicated depending on what vaccines you need and what state you live in but most vaccines can be administered at one of the healthcare facilities you visit regularly.
Doctor’s Office
Doctor explaining Medicare vaccine coverage.
Even though many other options are available, most will likely prefer to get their vaccinations at their regular doctor’s office. Your primary care doctor is a great resource not only for detailed information about what vaccines you or your family may need, but obviously for the administering of the vaccine itself. They can also advise on which variety of a given vaccine is best for you, as well as any side effects that may accompany it.
Pharmacies & Clinics
For many seniors, the most readily and easily available venue for vaccines is their local pharmacy. These establishments are usually closer to their homes than a doctor’s office or hospital and can provide many of the same vaccinations. It is probably best to call ahead to ensure the pharmacy or clinic is stocked with the vaccine you need as supplies can run low.
Medicare Vaccine Coverage
An often overlooked element of the threat posed by vaccine-preventable diseases is the financial cost. A 2007 study of the seasonal flu found that $87 billion was spent every year on direct and indirect medical costs. It also found that adults over 65 made up about 64% of that cost. Clearly, it is cheaper to get vaccinated than to potentially incur the medical expenses of treating the disease itself but if the cost of immunization still seems daunting, there are options available to help with or completely cover the vaccines.
Does Medicare Pay For Flu Shots?
Flu shots are completely covered by Medicare Part B, as they are categorized as a preventive service. As long as your healthcare provider accepts Medicare, your annual flu shot will be a cost-free benefit. For those who are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you may need to see an in-network doctor or pharmacy to be totally covered. This complete coverage applies to the pneumococcal vaccine as well!
Does Medicare Pay For Shingles Vaccine?
Medicare Part D plans, which are Medicare Advantage plans that cover prescription drugs, virtually all cover the shingles vaccine. As these are supplemental plans, an out-of-pocket cost is usually associated with these vaccinations. Whether this is in the form of a copayment or coinsurance, it is best to contact your insurance provider directly to discuss the potential out-of-pocket cost, as well as any specific rules they might have for the administering of the vaccine itself.
Turning 65 Checklist
Does Medicare Pay For Tetanus Shots?
Like the shingles vaccine, neither Td and Tdap versions of the tetanus shot are covered by Medicare Part B. These vaccines will need to be covered by an insurance plan that includes prescription drug coverage, such as Medicare Part D. These plans are purchased through private insurance companies and supplement the coverage provided by the original components of Medicare.
Depending on where you live, there could be countless Medicare Advantage plan options available and finding the one that best suits you can be exhausting and outright confusing. Take out some of the guesswork and get in touch with a licensed agent through Medicare Plan Finder today to find the best plan for your needs! Call us at 844-431-1832 or contact us online to get started!
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.
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 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 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
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
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.
This blog was originally published on July 20, 2017 and last updated on October 3, 2019 by Anastasia Iliou.
A Guide to Osteoporosis Medicare Coverage
Osteoporosis literally means “porous bone”. It’s characterized by low bone mass and deteriorating bone tissue and it leads to fragile bones and an increased risk of hip, spine, and wrist fractures.
According to the International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF), more than 61 million people will be affected by osteoporosis or low bone density by 2020. If you’re one of those millions of people and you have Medicare, you may wonder about osteoporosis Medicare coverage and what you can do to help your bone health.
Osteoporosis Medicare Treatment and Testing Coverage
Osteoporosis Screening Medicare | Medicare Plan Finder
Original Medicare covers certain preventive services and treatments for osteoporosis.
Does Medicare Cover Bone Density Tests?
As part of Medicare’spreventive care program, Medicare Part B may cover one bone density test every two years—more often if the tests are medically necessary—if you meet one or more of the following conditions:
You’re a woman whose doctor determines you’re at risk for osteoporosis, based on estrogen deficiency, your medical history, and other risk factors
Your X-rays show possible osteoporosis, osteopenia, or spine fractures
You take prednisone or steroid-type drugs or you plan to start
You have primary hyperparathyroidism
You’re monitored to see if your osteoporosis drug treatment is working
Does Medicare Cover Prolia Injections and Other Osteoporosis Drugs?
Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) may help pay for an injectible drug for osteoporosis (Prolia, Reclast, or other drugs) and visits by a home health nurse to inject the drug if you meet the following conditions:
You’re a woman.
You’re eligible for Part B and qualify for Medicare home health services.
You have a bone fracture that a doctor certifies is related to postmenopausal osteoporosis.
Your doctor certifies that you’re unable to learn to give yourself the drug by injection and your family members and/or caregivers are unable and unwilling to give you the drug by injection.
You may owe coinsurance and/or deductibles. You may be responsible for paying other services in full if Medicare doesn’t approve them.
Prolia Finder
If you don’t know where to get started looking for Prolia, click here. That will lead you to the Prolia finder tool. Enter your zip code in the box above the blue arrow. We used our home office in Nashville, Tennessee’s zip code, which is 37209.
Then select “Pharmacy Site” in the drop-down menu above the red arrow. Then click “Find Locations” beside the yellow arrow. That will lead you to a list of pharmacies where you can find Prolia. You may have to contact more than one to find the right facility for you.
The next step is going to your pharmacy and picking up your medication. You may owe Part D or Medicare Advantage drug fees. Once you obtain the medication, make an injection appointment with your healthcare provider.
You can also receive an injection at a Prolia treatment site, which you can find using the same Prolia finder tool.
To find a treatment location, go through the same steps to find a pharmacy site, except select “Treatment Site” from the drop-down menu above the red arrow. After you click “Find Locations” you’ll reach a list of Prolia treatment sites and contact information. Again, you may have to call more than one to find the best fit.
Medicare Coverage for Other Osteoporosis Drugs
In most cases, Original Medicare doesn’t include prescription drug coverage. If your doctor prescribes ibandronate (Boniva), alendronate (Fosamax), and/or risedronate (Actonel, Atelvia) and you want Medicare coverage, you’ll need to enroll in either a Medicare Part D plan or a Medicare Advantage plan with a prescription drug benefit.
How to Increase Bone Density at Home
Along with taking your prescribed medications, there are many things you can do to help increase your bone density at home. According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF), you can protect your bones by exercising, eating right, avoiding tobacco, and limiting alcohol.
Exercises for Osteoporosis
The two most important types of osteoporosis are weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises. Both types of exercises can help build and maintain bone density. As always, you should check with your healthcare provider before starting any exercise program.
Weight-Bearing Exercises
Weight-bearing exercises include activities that make you move against gravity while staying upright. Weight-bearing exercises can be high-impact or low-impact.
High-impact weight-bearing exercises help build bones and keep them strong. However, you may need to avoid high-impact exercises if you have a broken bone.
Some examples of high-impact weight-bearing exercises:
Dancing
High-impact aerobics
Hiking
Jogging/running
Jumping Rope
Stair climbing
Tennis
Low-impact weight-bearing exercises are also effective at keeping bones strong. They’re also a safe alternative if you can’t do high-impact exercises.
Some examples of low-impact weight-bearing exercises:
Using elliptical machines
Doing low-impact aerobics
Using stair climbers
Brisk walking on a treadmill or outside
Muscle-Strengthening Exercises
Muscle-strengthening exercises use a weight or some other resistance to push or pull against gravity. They are also known as resistance exercises and include:
Lifting free weights
Using weight machines
Using elastic exercise bands (resistance bands)
Lifting your own body weight (pull-ups, pushups, etc.)
Functional movements that you use in daily life, such as standing from a sitting position
Yoga and pilates can also help improve strength, balance, and flexibility. However, certain positions may not be safe for people with osteoporosis or low bone density. If you have questions about the safety of an exercise, consult your doctor or physical therapist.
Medicare Fitness Coverage
Medicare Fitness Coverage | Medicare Plan Finder
Original Medicare does not cover gym memberships or fitness classes. However, certain Medicare Advantage plans offer coverage for fitness classes along with other supplemental benefits such as dental, hearing, and vision coverage.
A licensed agent with Medicare Plan Finder may be able to help you find a plan that suits your needs. Plans vary by zip code, but some Medicare Advantage with fitness benefits have $0 premiums. To set up a no-cost, no-obligation appointment, call 844-431-1832 or contact us here.
Diet for Osteoporosis
Diet for Osteoporosis | Medicare Plan Finder
According to NOF, a “balanced diet that’s rich in calcium and Vitamin D” is important for your bone health.
NOF says the following foods are good for your bones because they may contain nutrients such as magnesium, potassium, Vitamin C, and Vitamin K along with Vitamin D and calcium:
Dairy Products
Low-fat milk, yogurt, and cheese
Non-fat milk, yogurt, and cheese
Fish
Canned sardines and salmon (with bones)
Fatty varieties such as salmon, mackerel, tuna and sardines
Fruits and Vegetables
Artichokes
Bananas
Beet greens
Broccoli
Brussels sprouts
Chinese cabbage
Collard greens
Dandelion greens
Kale
Mustard greens
Okra
Oranges
Papaya
Pineapple
Plantains
Plantains
Potatoes including sweet potatoes
Red peppers, green peppers,
Spinach
Tomato products
Turnip greens
Fortified Foods
Some food manufacturers add Vitamin D and calcium to products such as cereal, juice, and bread. Always check the product’s label to see exactly what’s in the container.
Find Osteoporosis Medicare Coverage Today!
Talk to one of our agents if you want to learn more about Medicare’s coverage for osteoporosis. Our licensed agents are highly trained and they may be able to help you find a plan that fits your budget and lifestyle.
If you’ve been diagnosed with low bone density or osteoporosis, you may need treatment as quickly as possible. One of our agents can show you what’s available in your location. Call 844-431-1832 or contact us here to arrange a meeting now.
Contact Us | Medicare Plan Finder
Does Medicare Cover Music Therapy?
Have you considered trying out music therapy? Music therapy is a form of psychological healing. Even ancient civilizations used music as a form of healing!
It’s possible because different aspects of music, like the pitch and rhythm, affect different parts of your brain. It can help those with anything from depression to Alzheimer’s and everything in between. If you have Medicare, you may wonder, “Does Medicare cover music therapy?”
Medicare Coverage for Music Therapy
Does Medicare Cover Music Therapy? | Medicare Plan Finder
Medicare covers music therapy under certain conditions. For example, Medicare Part B (medical insurance) may cover music therapy as part of a mental health treatment plan.
Music therapy by a licensed music therapist is considered a reimbursable service with Medicare under Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP). This means that as long as your music therapy services are prescribed by a doctor, are documented on a treatment plan, and are reasonably necessary, Medicare may cover the service. You may be responsible for coinsurance or deductibles.
Medicare Advantage Alternative Therapy Coverage
Because music therapy is an alternative form of medicine, the most basic plans may not cover it.
Some private insurance policies called Medicare Advantage plans can cover music therapy along with other alternative therapies such as acupuncture and chiropractic care.
We can help you find out if you can get coverage for music therapy. Give us a call at 1-844-431-1832 or contact us here.
Find Medicare Plans | Medicare Plan Finder
How Does Music Therapy Work?
Licensed music therapists are trained in both music and psychology. They know which parts of the brain need stimulation for healing and know how to encourage it. It works differently for everyone.
When it comes to memory loss, a music therapist may encourage a patient to listen to songs from their past. Music releases certain hormones that can induce memory and remind us of other times that we’ve heard the same music. It can help patients recover memories they may have thought were lost.
When it comes to pain relief, a music therapist might encourage a patient to listen to calm, soothing sounds. When it comes to depression and mental illness, a music therapist might encourage a patient to learn to play an instrument or to express themselves by writing music.
What Does Music Therapy Help?
You may be surprised by the number of conditions that music therapy can help with! These are just a few examples:
Heart Health: Music therapy can improve blood pressure levels by reducing stress hormones. Your body responds to the rate of the music.
Memory Loss: Music therapists often visit nursing homes and hospitals to care for Alzheimer’s patients or others who are suffering from memory loss. Music can improve cognitive functions.
Fetal Development: Research has proven that babies who listen to music while in the womb are born more responsive. Those babies typically develop faster, sleep better, and bond better with their parents.
Depression: Music can induce feelings of happiness by releasing happy hormones like dopamine. It also allows depressed patients to focus their energy.
Mental Disabilities: Individuals with autism are commonly music therapy patients. It’s a great way for them to practice communication and creativity.
Pain Management: Music can increase oxytocin levels (love hormone), which is very similar to what pain medications do but without the addictive qualities. Music therapy provides a great alternative to over-medication.
How to Find a Music Therapist
If you’re looking for a music therapist in your area, click here. You’ll reach the search tool for the American Music Therapy Association. From there, enter your city in the bar beside the green arrow. Then select your state from the drop-down menu beside the blue arrow. We chose Nashville, Tennessee because that’s the location of our home office. Once you’ve completed that, click “Search” beside the red arrow.
How to Find a Music Therapist Step 1 | Medicare Plan Finder
Then you’ll reach a list of music therapists in your area with contact info. You may need to call more than one to find the right fit.
How to Find a Music Therapist Step 2 | Medicare Plan Finder
Find Coverage for Music Therapy Today
A licensed agent with Medicare Plan Finder may be able to help you find an insurance plan that fits your needs.
Depending on what plans are available in your area, you may be able to find one that covers music therapy along with supplemental benefits such as vision, hearing, dental, and fitness classes! To set up a no-cost, no-obligation appointment, call us at 844-431-1832 or contact us here today.
Contact Us | Medicare Plan Finder
This post was originally published on February 15, 2018, and updated on October 2, 2019.
Medicare Meal Delivery Services & Meals on Wheels
According to a report from the non-profit organization Feeding America, 5.5 million adults 60 and older are “food insecure,” meaning they lack access to enough quality foods. Many seniors and Medicare eligibles may be homebound due to medical conditions or income level, and they simply can’t get out to buy the food they need.
Meals on Wheels or Medicare meal delivery services may be able to help if you meet certain conditions.
What Is Meals on Wheels?
Medicare Food Delivery | Medicare Plan Finder
Meals on Wheels is best known as a food delivery service for homebound people who don’t otherwise have access to healthy food. Meals on Wheels has more than five thousand programs that operate across the entire United States. Those programs feed more than 2.4 million people every year.
Meals on Wheels programs may operate on a sliding payment scale, meaning that you won’t necessarily be turned away if you can’t afford the meals. Some local programs accept SNAP (food stamps). Every local Meals on Wheels program has a different set of payment guidelines, so it’s best to reach out your local program if you have questions.
Typically, program members receive one meal per business day. You may not be able to receive meals on weekends, holidays, or during inclement weather.
Meals on Wheels may provide additional benefits along with food delivery. The volunteers who deliver the meals can talk to the program members, which can provide an additional social benefit.
Meals on Wheels Food Delivery Finder
Meals on Wheels’ network of independently-operated programs provides 218 million meals all over the US. While each local program may provide different services based on your community’s needs, every program is dedicated to encouraging healthier lifestyles.
If you have questions about the services your local Meals on Wheels program provides, check out the Meals on Wheels America directory. Once you’re on the page, enter your zip code and hit “enter.”
Medicare Food Delivery | Medicare Plan Finder
That leads you to a page that lists contact information for the programs in your area.
Who Qualifies for Meals on Wheels?
Each local program may have different eligibility requirements, however, most homebound people who are 60 and older will qualify. People younger than 60 may also qualify if they are homebound, disabled, and they meet certain income requirements.
Most Meals on Wheels programs use CMS guidelines for determining whether you’re homebound. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) defines homebound as, “confined to the home due to illness or injury.”
You don’t necessarily have to be incapable of leaving; if it is difficult for you to leave, that counts. For example, if you can’t leave the house without a walker, and it’s extremely physically taxing when you leave, CMS may consider you to be homebound.
Is Meals on Wheels Covered by Medicare?
Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) does not cover Meals on Wheels or any other home meal delivery service. However, certain private insurance plans called Medicare Advantage plans can offer meal delivery services if you meet certain qualifications.
Along with meal delivery, Medicare Advantage plans can cover benefits including non-emergency transportation to medical appointments, vision, dental, and hearing services.
How Do I Get Meals on Wheels With My Medicare Advantage Plan?
Most Medicare Advantage plans that offer Medicare meal delivery usually offer the service for a limited time. For example, if you’re discharged from a hospital or a skilled nursing facility, you may receive 10 pre-packaged frozen meals. Your plan may have limits on how many times per year you can receive the post-discharge Medicare food delivery service.
Another way Medicare Advantage plans can offer meal delivery services is if you have a chronic condition. Your plan may offer a set number of pre-packaged meals annually if you have special dietary needs.
Some plans will offer the meal delivery benefit more than once per year to people who have multiple conditions. Some Medicare Advantage plans may allow doctors to order more meals depending on your needs, too.
The licensed agents with Medicare Plan Finder can help you find a Medicare Advantage plan in your area that offers meal delivery services. We are dedicated to helping you find the best plan for your lifestyle and budget.
Medicare Advantage | Medicare Plan Finder
Does Medicaid Cover Meals on Wheels?
If you are homebound and eligible for Medicaid, your state may provide a waiver that pays for home-delivered meals. Medicaid will only cover Medicaid-approved meal delivery services such as Mom’s Meals and Homestyle Direct.
For example, some states require nutrition counseling for Medicaid beneficiaries. Other states do not. If you have questions about your state’s requirements for Medicaid meal delivery services, click here to contact your state’s Medicaid office.
Each state has different policies regarding how you pay for home meal delivery. Some states pay as little as $3.00 per meal, and some pay as much as $8.00 per meal.
How Do I Get Meals on Wheels for My Mother/Relative?
Every local program has different rules about how to apply for Meals on Wheels, and who can apply. Contact your local program’s office to learn about specific requirements.
Some Meals on Wheels programs can cost about $7 per meal, but they accept contributions based on what the recipient can afford.
Even though your loved one’s local Meals on Wheels program may operate on a sliding payment scale or accept SNAP, a Medicare Advantage plan with meal delivery may be the best option for your relative to get vital nutrients after a hospital stay. You can only make Medicare decision’s on your relative’s behalf if you have durable power of attorney (POA).
Agents cannot legally discuss your loved one’s protected health information (PHI) without durable POA. Talk to your agent about your loved one’s needs. Your agent can help you determine if a Medicare Advantage plan with meal delivery is right for your relative.
What Is a Typical Meals on Wheels Menu?
Medicare Meal Delivery | Medicare Plan Finder
Many Meals on Wheels programs provide one meal per day that meets ⅓ of the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) recommended daily nutritional value. Meals may contain a protein, a starch, a vegetable, and a dessert.
Many local programs vary the menu every month so you aren’t getting the same thing every day. For example, one day’s meal might be:
Protein: Barbecue pork
Starch: Red potatoes
Vegetable: Spinach salad with French dressing
Dessert: Banana bread
Can I Choose What I Get?
Some local Meals on Wheels programs give their recipients options for meals, such as a diabetes-friendly dessert or a vegetarian option. However, because each program is different, the Meals on Wheels program near you may not let you choose what you get.
How We Can Help With Medicare Meal Delivery
The right Medicare Advantage plan can help provide you with the nutrition you need after a hospital stay or if you have a chronic illness. Our licensed agents can help you find the best health insurance plan that fits your needs. Call 844-431-1832 or contact us here to learn more today.
Contact Us | Medicare Plan Finder
This post was originally published on July 25, 2019, and updated on September 30, 2019.
Does Medicare Cover Knee Replacements?
More than 600 thousand people need knee replacements every year, according to the American Academy of Orthopaeidic Surgeons (AAOS). If you’re one of those people and you have Medicare, you may wonder, “Does Medicare cover knee replacements?” Yes, but only in certain circumstances.
Medicare Criteria for Total Knee Replacement
Does Medicare Cover Knee Replacements? | Medicare Plan Finder
In order for your Medicare plan to cover a knee replacement procedure, the surgery must be medically necessary. For example, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) lists the following conditions that can lead to joint replacement:
Osteoarthritis (mild, moderate, severe)
Inflammatory arthritis (for example, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis)
Malignancy of the distal femur, proximal tibia, knee joint, and/or soft tissues
Previous knee replacement failure
Fractures
Osteonecrosis (a disease caused when the joints receive less blood than normal)
*This list is not exhaustive. You may have different conditions that lead to a knee replacement.
Your doctor will perform a physical exam before recommending surgery. During the exam, your doctor will assess your range of motion, look at how you walk, and look for deformities and/or tenderness. Your doctor will likely order blood work and other lab tests to determine the best possible treatment plan.
Medicare Knee Replacement Age Limit
There is no age limit for a Medicare knee replacement. However, you may still be responsible for some out-of-pocket costs.
What Is the Cost of a Total Knee Replacement if You Are on Medicare?
The exact cost of a knee replacement surgery is hard to pinpoint. Many different factors go into the total cost of the procedure including:
How long you spend in the operating room
The type of anesthesia and the amount the doctor uses
X-rays during and after the operation
Post-surgery medications to manage pain, prevent infection, and help prevent blood clots
How many days you spend recovering in the hospital
Post-surgery physical therapy to help exercise your knee
With Original Medicare, Part A may cover your hospital stay after you meet the Part A deductible. AAHKS says that most people stay in the hospital for 1-3 days “depending on your rehabilitation protocol and how fast you progress with physical therapy.”
If your surgeon recommends an outpatient TJA, Medicare Part B may cover the procedure. If Part B covers the procedure, you may owe 20 percent of all Medicare-approved charges, Part B may pay the remaining 80 percent.
Does Medicare Cover Knee Replacement Surgery Recovery?
Medicare Part A will cover a temporary stay in a skilled nursing facility. Original Medicare may also cover medications, testing, and other clinical services.
Medicare Part B covers postoperative follow-up appointments. Original Medicare may not cover prescription drugs to fight pain or prevent infection, but a Medicare Part D or Medicare Advantage plan with a prescription benefit can cover those medications.
Free Prescription Discount Card
Knee Replacement Cost With Medicare Advantage
If you qualify for Medicare, you can get a Medicare Advantage (MA) plan, which is a private insurance plan that can cover the same services as Original Medicare. The difference is that a MA plan can cover additional benefits such as grab bars and meal delivery for when you return home from a hospital stay.
Each MA plan may require a different deductible, copay, coinsurance payment, or out-of-pocket maximum*, so what you actually pay depends on your plan.
Some Medicare Advantage plans offer a prescription drug benefit, which Original Medicare does not. You may owe a copay or coinsurance for your postoperative medications, and those payments vary by plan.
Knee Replacement Cost With a Medicare Supplement Plan
While Medicare Advantage plans cover Original Medicare services plus additional benefits, Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans cover financial items such as deductibles and coinsurance. You must choose one because you cannot have both a MA plan and a Medigap plan.
A Medicare Supplement plan can pay some or all of your out-of-pocket costs. Note: You may still owe at premium.
If you’re unsure if a Medicare Advantage or Medicare Supplement plan is right for you, a licensed agent with Medicare Plan Finder Can help. There may be many plans to choose from in your area. Our agents are highly trained and may be able to help you find a plan that suits your needs.
Contact Us | Medicare Plan Finder
What’s Involved in a Knee Replacement Surgery?
Discussing a Knee Replacement Procedure With a Surgeon | Medicare Plan Finder
Your surgery may be a total knee replacement or a partial knee replacement depending on how damaged your joint is.
Regardless if your procedure is a partial or total knee replacement, the surgery will require anesthesia. Your surgical team may use general anesthesia, which makes you sleep during the surgery, or spinal anesthesia, which makes you numb from the waste down, but you’re still awake.
During the procedure, your surgeon will bend your knee to see the entire surface of the joint. Then your surgeon will make an incision 6-10 inches long and then cut out any damaged joint surfaces.
After the joint is prepared, then your surgeon will attach the artificial joint and close the incision after making sure the new joint works properly. According to the Mayo Clinic, the procedure lasts about two hours.
Get Medicare Coverage for Knee Replacement Surgery Today
If you need a knee replacement and want to find the right Medicare plan to cover the procedure, one of our licensed agents may be able to help. There may be many plans available in your area, but how do you know which one is right for you? Your agent will assess your needs, show you the available options, and then help you determine the best path to take. To set up a no-cost, no-obligation appointment, call 844-431-1832 or contact us here today.
Find Medicare Plans | Medicare Plan Finder
BREAKING NEWS: Tennessee SilverSneakers® Program Splits from YMCA
SilverSneakers® announced on Tuesday, September 17, that the Tennessee State Alliance of YMCAs decided to leave the SilverSneakers® network effective January 1, 2020, citing financial disagreement.
The alliance apologized, stating, “Seniors are a vital part of our membership, and we apologize for any inconvenience this decision may cause. Tennessee Ys are committed to continuing to serve seniors in our community.”
SilverSneakers® is a Medicare fitness program that allows eligible Medicare beneficiaries access to gyms, fitness centers, and classes. Many of these often take place within YMCAs, offering not only physical fitness benefits but also a social atmosphere.
Eligibility for the program is simple – anyone who is age 65 or older and has a private Medicare plan that includes the SilverSneakers® benefit can join.
Watch this brief video to learn more about Medicare fitness programs:
The news that SilverSneakers® may not cooperate with Tennessee YMCAs anymore may be detrimental to seniors who made use of that benefit. If you’re one of those people, what should you do next?
What to do if You’re Losing Your YMCA SilverSneakers® Benefit
If you have SilverSneakers® but are no longer going to be able to visit a YMCA with your membership, all hope is not lost! There are a few steps you can take:
Pay for your own senior YMCA membership ($59/month in Middle TN. Prices range based on location)
Find a plan that has Silver & Fit® instead (another Medicare fitness program that is very similar to SilverSneakers® but still works with YMCAs as of September 2019)
Silver & Fit vs. SilverSneakers
Other Gyms You can Visit with SilverSneakers ®
Tivity Healthcare, the company that operates the SilverSneakers® program, wants to make it clear that there are still over 350 facilities in the state of Tennessee that SilverSneakers® members can use. Planet Fitness, Gold’s Gym, Anytime Fitness, and Workout Anytime as well as a variety of community centers are still part of the SilverSneakers® network in Tennessee and may be a great option for you.
Planet Fitness
Planet Fitness locations across the state of Tennessee offer benefits like massages, tanning, and even discounts on travel and Reebok products. Most locations have long hours, and some are open 24-7. Many of them also have free WiFi!
Gold’s Gym
Gold’s gym locations offer group exercise classes, personal training, and more. Group exercise classes include Yoga, Zumba, Mixed Martial Arts, Group Cycle, and High-Intensity Interval Training.
Anytime Fitness
Different Anytime Fitness locations offer different equipment such as treadmills, ellipticals, cycles, stair climbers, rowing machines, weights, kettlebells, etc. They also offer different classes like Zumba, cardio, yoga, and additional services like tanning, private showers, wellness programs, and personal training.
Workout Anytime
Workout Anytime locations have high-quality equipment from Matrix Fitness, which has received rewards for innovation. They also have high-quality polypropylene, antimicrobial flooring that is beautiful, comfortable, and clean.
If you decide that you would rather stick to a YMCA membership and do not want to try out some of the other SilverSneakers® locations options, a licensed agent can help you find a plan that includes Silver & Fit® instead.
Silver & Fit® is similar to SilverSneakers® and includes a digital resource library, home fitness kits, community activities, and several different fitness classes at various fitness centers in Tennessee.
Silver & Fit® locations across major cities in Tennessee are listed below:
To find a plan that includes Silver & Fit®, call 844-431-1832 or send us a message. We’ll connect you with a licensed agent in your area who may be able to help you make the switch.
Many people remember the “I’ve fallen and I can’t get up,” commercials from the ‘80s and ‘90s and laugh, but those ads actually sold a useful product called a medical alert system or personal emergency response system (PERS).
Life Alert, who currently owns the trademark to the phrase, is just one medical alert system on the market today. With the press of a button, you can call for help when you need it most!
If you have Medicare insurance you may want to know, “Does Medicare cover Life Alert or any other medical alert system?” The answer may be complicated.
Does Medicare Cover Life Alert Wristbands?
Does Medicare Cover Life Alert? | Medicare Plan Finder
Usually, a medical alert system comes in the form of a pendant button that’s worn around the neck. The system has a base station that communicates with the pendant to call emergency medical staff. The systems can also be wristbands or speakerphones.
Original Medicare does not cover Life Alert wristbands or any other medical alert system, but there may be other ways to receive private Medicare insurance coverage or discounts on personal emergency response systems.
If your Medicare plan doesn’t cover PERS, Medicaid as well as specific long-term care insurance policies may cover certain personal emergency response system costs in some states.
Medicare Advantage | Medicare Plan Finder
Life Alert Systems for Seniors and Medicare Eligibles
A medical alert system may provide peace of mind to someone who lives alone. For example, your caregiver may not be with you 24 hours a day. If you fall, you might not be able to reach a phone to ask for help. Some medical alert systems have a fall detection feature so the system can call for help if you take a tumble.
Medical Alert System Features
Every medical alert system can call for emergency services, but some offer additional features including:
Fall detection and/or prevention: According to the CDC, falls are the leading cause of “injury and death in older Americans.” Some medical alert systems offer a fall detection feature for an additional fee.
Health monitoring: Along with alerting emergency help, some personal emergency response systems can monitor health vitals, such as blood pressure and pulse, and can even send medication reminders.
GPS tracking: This service can be extremely helpful if you or your loved one is on-the-go. With a Global Positioning System (GPS), emergency responders can find the person who wears it no matter where they end up.
Activity tracking: Much like a Fitbit, some medical alert devices can track your activity inside or outside the home. Some include a built-in step counter and health challenges to keep you moving.
Daily check-in services: Some devices offer a check-in feature either with a live person or electronically.
Home security monitoring: Falls aren’t the only type of emergency. Some medical alert devices can alert emergency services in the event of fire, smoke and/or carbon monoxide.
Specific Medical Alert Systems and Their Features
To give you a better idea of what devices have certain features, here are five popular medical alert systems and their features:
Bay Alarm Medical:This device features 24-hour monitoring, a one thousand foot range for home devices, a waterproof pendant with 36-hour battery life, and offers landline, cellular, and GPS options with automatic fall detection.
Life Alert:This medical alert system offers options for landline, cellular, and GPS service, 24-hour monitoring, and batteries that last up to 10 years and do not need charging.
Medical Alert:This personal emergency response device features automatic fall detection with all systems, 24-hour monitoring, landline or cellular systems, a GPS option, and a lockbox option.
Medical Guardian:This PERS features a lockbox, 24-hour monitoring, a 1,300 foot range, and waterproof pendants with a 72-hour backup battery.
MobileHelp:This device features 24-hour monitoring, waterproof help buttons, a GPS option, and two-way voice communication. MobileHelp does not require a landline to use its product.
What to Consider When Looking for a Medical Alert System
Consider your lifestyle and your needs when you look for a personal emergency response system. Ask yourself the following questions:
How do I wear the device, and is it comfortable? If your device has sharp edges or it can irritate your skin, you may want to find a different option.
How far can I go with the device? Some devices are only meant for the home. If you go outside the device’s range, say one thousand feet, it may not work. Other devices can connect to a smartphone so you can contact emergency support if you leave your house and can’t reach your phone.
How durable is the device? You want a device that can handle the demands of your day-to-day life. You want a device that won’t break when you need it most.
How long does the battery last? Consider the device’s battery life and how you charge the device. Find out how long it takes to charge and how to know when the battery is low.
How easy is it to set up? If your device is too complicated to set up and use effectively, then it’s not providing a useful service. Also, find out if the device will require technology updates, and if those updates happen automatically or if you’ll have to manage them.
Does it come with a lockbox? Some companies install a lockbox so emergency responders can enter your home if you’re incapacitated. The lockbox can help keep your home safe while letting emergency personnel do their jobs.
Can my caregiver or family members connect to the device? Some medical alert systems allow your caregivers and/or family members to connect to the device. Ask yourself if that’s something you need.
How long does it take for someone to respond? In an emergency, someone should respond in a matter of seconds. Sometimes waiting longer than that can make a huge difference in your recovery.
Does the company have good customer service? Find out if the response center staff receive adequate training and if they can talk to your loved one in their preferred language. Also, you may have to speak to someone if it’s not an emergency. Learn about the company’s tech support and how to ask questions about their service and the device itself.
How Much Is Life Alert?
Looking at Life Alert Costs | Medicare Plan Finder
Medical alert systems aren’t free. With most systems, you’ll pay a monthly fee of about $25-$50 a month, plus an initial installation fee.
Be sure to read the fine print. If you do have to sign a contract, find out what it takes to leave the contract. For example, some companies will void the contract if you enter a nursing home.
Find Personal Emergency Response System Coverage
Even though Original Medicare does not cover Life Alert or any other medical alert system, a licensed agent with Medicare Plan Finder may be able to help you find coverage. Our agents are highly trained and they can help you see what plans are available in your area, and they can help you select the best one for you. Call 844-431-1832 or contact us here today.
