I am turning 65 and am eligible for Medicare. What do I need to do?
You will automatically be enrolled in Medicare Part A the month you turn 65. If you do not already receive social security benefits, you will need to apply for Part B. You can do so by either visiting your local social security office, by calling social security at 1-800-772-1213 or by applying online at
www.socialsecurity.gov. To ensure there is no delays for your Part B start date, you may apply for coverage 3 months prior to the month you turn 65.
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What is Medicare Part A and B?
Part A is hospital insurance provided by Medicare. Most people do not pay a premium for this coverage. Part A covers inpatient care in skilled nursing facilities, critical access hospitals, and hospitals. Hospice and home health care are also covered by Part A. Part B is medical insurance to pay for medically necessary services and supplies provided by Medicare. Most people will have to pay a premium to receive this coverage. Part B covers outpatient care, doctor's services, physical or occupational therapists, and additional home health care.
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What is a Medicare Advantage plan?
Medicare Advantage Plans, sometimes called "Part C" or "MA Plans," are health plans offered by private companies approved by Medicare. If you join a Medicare Advantage Plan, the plan provides all your Part A and Part B coverage. Medicare Advantage Plans may offer extra coverage, such as vision, hearing, dental, and/or health and wellness programs. Most plans also include Medicare prescription drug coverage. You usually pay a monthly premium to the Medicare Advantage plan, in addition to your Part B premium.
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What is Medicare Part D?
Part D is prescription drug coverage offered though private companies. In order to apply for Part D, you must also be enrolled in Parts A and/or B. To apply for Part D coverage, you must enroll by calling 1-800-MEDICARE or by going to the carrier’s website. If you are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you most likely have Part D coverage included. If you do not, then you may apply for Part D coverage separately, but must also be enrolled in Medicare Parts A AND B.
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What does AEP mean?
AEP stands for Annual Election Period and it runs from November 15 until December 31. This is when a Medicare beneficiary can enroll into a Medicare Part D plan, re-enroll into their existing Medicare Part D Plan or change into another Medicare Part D plan. Beneficiaries can also switch to a Medicare Advantage Plan that also has a Prescription Drug plan. The chosen Medicare Part D plan coverage begins on January 1st.
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