Medicare and Part D

What is Medicare?

Medicare is a government health insurance program designed to assist  citizens 65 years of age and older in meeting their hospital, medical and other health costs. It is available to most individuals 65 years of age and older. It has also been extended to individuals under age 65 who meet certain qualifications and situations involving disability. If fully disabled before 65, you may qualify for Social Security Disability when the waiting period is met.

Unfortunately, navigating Medicare can be a daunting task. If you need guidance through the process of signing up for Medicare and choosing the right plan for your needs, call Martinson Insurance Agency LLC to speak to an independent, fully licensed health insurance broker.

Medicare Parts A, B, C and D

There are four options when it comes to Medicare plans:

• Part A - This is "original" Medicare and covers hospital visits and skilled nursing care
• Part B - Also considered "original" Medicare, it covers doctor visits and outpatient care.
• Part C - The Medicare Advantage plan provides an alternative to coverage under original Medicare, providing all of Part A and Part B coverage, which means it includes all their services. The Medicare supplement is designed to fill in out of pocket gaps that Original Medicare "Parts A and B" do not fully cover and provide a max-out-of pocket annual limit.
• Part D - This option covers prescription medicines and is only available through private health plans. Plan D is run by commercial/private companies and must offer coverage that meets or exceeds the standard drug plan benefits defined by the government.
  

Original Medicare (Plans A and B) Does Not Cover:

• Acupuncture
• Deductibles, coinsurance and copays for covered services
• Diabetic syringes/insulin
• Emergency and urgently needed care outside the U.S.
• Fitness benefits
• Most dental care
• Most prescription meds
• Routine eye and hearing exams

When Can I Enroll in Medicare?