What is the Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program (MDPP) ?
The Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program expanded model is a structured intervention with the goal of preventing type 2 diabetes in individuals with an indication of prediabetes. The clinical intervention consists of a minimum of 16 intensive “core” sessions of a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) approved curriculum furnished over six months in a […]
Can I save money by adding Medicare Advantage?
Yes, Medicare Advantage can save you money in several ways. Studies show seniors save nearly $2,000 annually on average compared to Original Medicare. Medicare Advantage plans often have lower monthly premiums than Original Medicare plus a supplement plan. Many Medicare Advantage plans have $0 monthly premiums, though you still pay the standard Part B premium […]
Can you contribute to a health savings account (HSA) when you’re on Medicare?
You cannot contribute to a health savings account once you enroll in Medicare, regardless of your age. The key factor is Medicare enrollment, not turning 65. Many people assume HSA contributions must stop at age 65, but this is incorrect. If you are 65 or older and have not enrolled in Medicare while maintaining qualifying […]
What are Medicare Penalties for Late Enrollment?
Medicare late enrollment penalties can permanently increase your monthly premium for the rest of your life. Understanding these penalties is crucial to avoid costly mistakes in retirement. Your initial enrollment period is a seven-month window around your 65th birthday, starting three months before you turn 65 and ending three months after. If you’re receiving Social […]
What is Medicare’s Extra Help Program?
Medicare’s Extra Help Program is a federal benefit that helps Medicare beneficiaries with limited income and resources pay for prescription drug coverage costs. This program assists with monthly premiums, annual deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance for Medicare Part D prescription drug plans. To qualify for Extra Help, you must be enrolled in Medicare and meet specific […]
What’s the difference between Medicare and Medicare Advantage?
Medicare is a federal health insurance program that provides coverage for Americans aged 65 and older, plus younger people with certain disabilities. As an entitlement program, those who meet eligibility requirements are legally guaranteed these benefits. Traditional Medicare includes Part A for hospital coverage and Part B for medical services, with a 2026 Part B […]
How can I leave a Medicare Health Plan?
You can leave a Medicare Advantage plan during specific enrollment periods, not at any time during the year. The primary opportunity is the Annual Election Period from October 15 through December 7, when you can switch to a different Medicare Advantage plan or return to Original Medicare with or without a Part D prescription drug […]
Can You Be Denied Supplemental Insurance for Medicare?
Yes, you can be denied Medicare Supplement Insurance, but it depends on when you apply. During your six-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period, which begins when you first enroll in Medicare Part B at age 65 or older, insurance companies cannot deny you coverage or charge higher premiums based on your health status. This is your […]
What’s the difference between Medicare Advantage Plans and Medicare Supplement Plans?
Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement plans work completely differently. Medicare Advantage plans replace your Original Medicare, meaning you receive all Medicare benefits through one private insurance plan that includes Parts A, B, and usually D prescription coverage. These plans typically have networks of doctors and hospitals you must use, often feature low or zero monthly […]
When is Medicare secondary to my insurance?
The Medicare brochure titled “Medicare & Other Health Benefits: Your Guide to Who Pays First” describes this in detail. In summary, if you have Medicare and other health insurance (like from a group health plan, retiree coverage, or Medicaid), each type of coverage is called a “payer.” When there’s more than one payer, “coordination of […]