People are asking:

What does Medicare coverage provide?

Medicare is health insurance from the federal government. It helps people 65 and older (and some younger with certain health problems).

• Part A helps pay for hospital stays, skilled nursing, hospice, and some home health care.

• Part B helps pay for doctor visits, tests, medical supplies, and outpatient care.

• Part D helps pay for prescription drugs.
  You can get Medicare directly from the government (Original Medicare) or through a private company (Medicare Advantage)

Can I still work with Part A coverage only?

Yes. Many people keep working and only sign up for Part A (hospital coverage) when they first turn 65, because it’s usually free if they’ve worked enough years. They can wait to add Part B (doctor coverage) until they stop working or lose their job’s health insurance, and they won’t get a late penalty if they sign up during their special enrollment period.

I travel. Which Medicare plan goes with me?

• With Original Medicare, you can see any doctor or hospital in the U.S. that takes Medicare, so it travels with you across the country.

• Some Medigap (supplement) plans even cover emergencies in other countries.

• Medicare Advantage plans (like HMOs and PPOs) may only cover you in their service area, except for emergencies and urgent care, so you need to check before you travel.

I am about to retire. When should I apply for Part B to avoid a penalty?

You should sign up for Part B (doctor coverage) when you first turn 65 unless you still have qualifying health insurance from your job (or your spouse’s job). If you keep qualified job coverage, you can wait. Once that job coverage ends, you have 8 months to sign up for Part B without a penalty

What questions about Medicare could we answer for you?