Important points to understand about Medicare enrollment

Reprinted from www.medilady.com

By the Medi-Lady

Fall is the time when people reset their thermostats and look for long sleeves and sweaters. However, this is also the time for seniors to remember important Medicare dates and information.

Here are some important upcoming dates and points to keep in mind to make you don't get locked into your current plan. Starting from early October, seniors should review and compare plans they are interested in signing up for.  Seniors should be aware of the year-round annual election period dates for 2012 during this month, and individuals may enroll and switch their health plans between Oct. 15 and Dec. 7, 2011.  You will not be able to change plans if you enroll after Dec. 8.

In addition to open enrollment, there is also a special enrollment period. This is for people who have both Medicare and Medi-Cal. It also applies to people who have permanently moved out of the current health plans service area, and those who are institutionalized. The special enrollment period is also applicable for those who qualify for extra help with prescription drugs. The deadline for enrollment is Dec. 31, 2011.  To avoid penalties sign up for open or special enrollment before the deadline.

• Medicare A covers hospital care, Medicare Part B covers medical services such as doctor visits, Medicare C refers to the Advantage Plans. Advantage Plans include services such as vision, hearing, dental and wellness programs. Medicare Part D covers prescriptions.
• Medicare Part A is the only portion you are typically enrolled in automatically. You must sign up for all other parts of Medicare.
• Seniors do not usually pay for Medicare Part A coverage, but will need to pay a monthly premium for Part B. If you receive Social Security, Part B costs are taken out. If you don't receive Social Security, you will receive a bill every three months.
• There are Medicare Special Needs Plans for people with long-term illnesses and there are also options for people with low incomes.

These are some important points to remember before you start Medicare enrollment. It is best to meet with a health care advisor to help guide you through this process. For more information about Medicare programs please call 877-633-4523 or go to www.medilady.com.