MIAMI.- Has already Medicare and don’t know what to do? There are several helpful steps that can help you become familiar with this health insurance program administered by the United States federal government, which provides affordable access to health care for millions of older Americans and people with disabilities.
Medicare is designed primarily for people age 65 and older, although it also covers younger people with certain permanent disabilities and those with end-stage renal disease who require dialysis or a kidney transplant.
This program is divided into several parts that offer different types of coverage. Part A covers hospitalization, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home health services. Part B covers medical services such as doctor visits, lab tests, durable medical equipment, and preventive services. Part C (Medicare Advantage) offers coverage through private health plans approved by Medicare. And Part D covers prescription drugs, helping beneficiaries pay for their medicine costs.
1- Cree your Medicare account and access your information. You can also:
- Add your prescriptions to better compare health and drug plans in your area.
- View your Original Medicare claims as soon as they are processed.
- Print a copy of your official Medicare card.
- Review a list of preventive services you are eligible for when you have Original Medicare.
- Get information about Medicare premiums and pay them online if you receive a bill by Medicare.
You will need your Medicare number to create an account. If you do not have your Medicare card yet, you can Sign in to your Social Security account to get your Medicare number or call us at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) for help. TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048.
If you enroll in a Medicare health or drug plan, your plan may offer an online account to track your claims.
2- Give Medicare permission to talk to someone you trust
Medicare cannot share any information about a Medicare account, such as claims or billing, unless the account holder first gives written permission. Complete and submit a form or log in to your Medicare account to give them permission to talk to someone you trust (such as your spouse, family member, or caregiver).
3- Find out if you qualify for help with costs
If you have limited income, you may qualify for help paying for costs like your premiums or medications. Find savings programs.
4- Use the digital tool
You can save and print the information at any time for your records. Sign in to your account to get these items electronically. Also, refer to the “Medicare & You” handbook.
5- Get your free “Welcome to Medicare” visit
Schedule a free preventive visit with your doctor during your first year with Medicare. You’ll talk with your doctor about your medical history, your health needs, and preventive services that may be right for you.
Source: Medicare
