Medicare Supplement Health Insurance
Frequently Asked Questions
Medicare Facts
How do I replace my Medicare card?
If
your Medicare card is damaged, lost or stolen, you can telephone Social Security
at 1-800-772-1213 or apply for a replacement card on the Internet at
www.socialsecurity.gov
What are Medicare Parts A, B, C and D?
Part A is hospital
insurance. Part B is medical insurance. You sign up for Parts A&B through Social
Security Office. Part C includes Medicare Advantage and medigap plans that can
be purchased through Medicare approved private companies to fill the gaps and
coinsurance costs that Medicare Parts A and B do not cover. Part D
Prescription Drug Plans are also offered through private companies in the state
you live in.
Do I enroll in Medicare Parts A&B when I retire?
Even
though Social Security defines 'full retire age" today as 66, everyone must sign up
for Medicare within 3 months before and 3 months after the month you turn 65.
Medicare enrollment is done through your Social Security office.
Is there a penalty for not enrolling in Medicare Part B?
Yes, Your monthly
premium for Part B will increase 10% for each 12 month period you were eligible
but did not enroll. The general enrollment period after missing the
turning 65 initial period is from January 1 through March 31, with Part B
coverage beginning in July of the same year.
Do I need Medicare Part B if I have medical group health coverage from my
employer or spouse?
If you
are 65 or older and still working you can wait to sign up for Medicare Part B if
you or your spouse has an employer group health plan. You will have a
special enrollment period for people covered under an employer group
health plan to enroll in Medicare Part B.
Is Medicare available for someone with a disability under age 65?
Yes,
You contact Social Security to receive Medicare Part A coverage. Once you
have received Social Security benefits for a disability for 24 months, you will
be eligible for Part B of Medicare. People with Lou Gehrig's disease,
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, automatically receive Part B the month their
disability begins.
With Medicare Advantage Plans do I need prior authorization for hospital and
medical services?
Yes,
almost always! Treatments, procedures, surgeries and or drug therapies will not
be paid by your Advantage Plan or Medicare unless you have gotten prior
authorization from your Advantage Plan, primary care physician or specialist.
An exception will be made for Emergency Services.
What is the difference between Medicaid and Medicare?
They
are two different programs. Medicaid programs are run by each state and
are for people with low income and little or no resources. Medicaid programs
cover medical and hospital services. Each state has its own rules and
regulations and decides who is eligible and what Medicaid covers. Some
people quality for both Medicaid and Medicare. Contact your local medical
assistance agency, welfare office or social services for more information.
State of Texas
Medicaid Information.
Is Long Term Care Insurance covered by Medicare?
No,
Medicare does not cover Long Term Care insurance. If you are interested in
obtaining Long Term Care Insurance please call us today.
Call
817-589-1400 or click here
to send us an email Contact Us.
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