Unfortunately, many people are hit with surprise medical bills and fees after being treated by a healthcare provider at a clinic or hospital. Even when patients make every effort to understand their insurance policy and healthcare costs, it can be challenging to grasp detailed billing information, especially if you are in the midst of a […]
Coverage
5 Pros of Using Medicare Agents to Find a Plan
Whether you’re new to Medicare or are a long-time Medicare beneficiary, an agent can help save you time, money, and your sanity when trying to navigate all your different Medicare options. You don’t have to wander around the confusing world of Medicare alone. Medicare agents are educators, guidance counselors, and translators who can help you […]
Does Medicare Pay for Prescription Drugs?
When becoming eligible for Medicare, many Medicare beneficiaries make the mistake of thinking they automatically get prescription drug coverage. This is not the case. Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) does not cover prescription drugs. If you want prescription drug coverage, you must join a plan run by an insurance company or other private company approved […]
What Does ‘Medically Necessary’ Mean?
If you are a Medicare beneficiary, you may have come across the term, “medically necessary” to refer to services covered by Medicare. But what does it mean? According to HealthCare.gov, medically necessary services are defined as “health care services or supplies that are needed to diagnose or treat an illness, injury, condition, disease, or its symptoms – […]
Medicare Coverage for Sleeping Disorders
Most experts recommend older adults get seven to nine hours of sleep per night; however, age-related changes in sleep patterns – including trouble falling or staying asleep – can make it difficult to catch enough Z’s. Lack of sleep can cause many problems, such as excessive daytime sleepiness, falls, overuse of sleep aids, depression, irritability, […]
Medicare Coverage of Mental Health Services
A person’s mental health refers to their state of psychological, emotional, and social well-being – and it’s important to take care of it at every stage of life, from childhood to late adulthood. Fortunately, Medicare beneficiaries struggling with mental health conditions may be covered for mental health services through Medicare. Mental health services are a […]
Does Medicare Cover Assisted Living for Dementia?
When dementia interferes with the daily life of a loved one, many families and caregivers consider an assisted living facility. Assisted living is a type of long-term care (also called custodial care) of services and supports for personal care needs, which include activities of daily living (ADL) like housekeeping, dressing, bathing, meal preparation, eating, medication […]
Medicare & Cataract Surgery Coverage
Cataracts, a clouding of the eye’s natural lens, is a condition of aging so common that half of all Americans are affected by age 80. Fortunately, Medicare helps pay for certain medically necessary eye services like cataract surgery. In fact, eighty percent of cataract surgery in the US is performed on Medicare beneficiaries! Here’s what else you need to know about […]
Medicare Supplement Plan F vs. High-Deductible Plan F
After enrolling in Original Medicare Part A and Part B, you may decide to purchase a private supplemental insurance plan to help pay the costs that Original Medicare doesn’t cover. During your six-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period, you can choose from up to 10 standardized Medigap plans (A, B, C, D, F, G, K, L, […]
Does Aetna Cover My Prescription Drugs?
Without coverage, the costs of prescription drugs can add up, especially as we get older. Many seniors are surprised by the overwhelming expense of medications and have concerns about how their Medicare choices can affect them. If you have been prescribed drugs by your physician or want to make sure you can afford them when […]
Does Medicare Cover a Biopsy?
When your doctor suggests a biopsy, you may be understandably concerned, but knowing what to expect can help. Procedures can be costly, and when you are already a little stressed about your health, you shouldn’t have to worry about how you will pay the medical bills from the procedure. Let’s find out how Medicare insurance […]
Does Medicare Cover a Chronic Cough?
A persistent cough can be annoying. Whether you clear your throat frequently throughout the day interrupting meetings and conversations, or have a prominent cough that leaves you fatigued and lightheaded, a chronic cough may be more than just an aggravation. Learn more about chronic coughs, when you should call your doctor, and whether your medical […]
Does Medicare Cover A Heart Transplant?
A transplant is the last resort for an individual suffering from a failing, diseased heart. A heart transplant is only a consideration after medications, treatments, and surgery have not sufficiently improved a heart’s condition. Once someone has reached end-stage heart failure and all other options have been exhausted, a cardiologist and cardiac surgeon will assess […]
Does Medicare Cover a Hysterectomy?
According to the Office on Women’s Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 500,000 women get hysterectomies each year, making it the second most common surgery for women in the United States. While there are numerous factors that contribute to a physician’s decision to recommend a hysterectomy, the potential for surgery comes with a […]
Does Medicare Cover a Kidney Transplant?
Many people assume that Medicare is just for individuals over the age of 65, but people of any age with End-Stage Renal Disease, permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant, are also eligible for Medicare benefits. You may have specific coverage needs and limited plan options, so let’s discuss ESRD and how insurance […]
Does Medicare Cover a Lung Transplant?
When medications and treatments have not improved a diseased or failing lung, some people have to face the prospect of a lung transplant. Aside from the risks of this major surgery, you may be concerned about the costs of pre- and post-operative care, as well as the surgery and hospital stay. Medicare can help cover […]
Does Medicare Cover Allergies?
Allergies affect more than 50 million Americans every year, but reactions range from inconvenient sneezing or coughing fits to more severe, life-threatening events. While some people can manage occasional or seasonal allergies with over-the-counter drugs, many people face a more consistent need for treatment from a medical professional. According to the Centers for Disease Control […]
Does Medicare Cover Blood?
A blood transfusion can be a life-saving procedure when you’ve lost blood due to illness or injury. Transfusions are usually performed in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or doctor’s office. Your Medicare coverage will depend on where you get blood and what insurance plan you have. How Medicare Helps Cover the Cost of a Blood Transfusion […]
Does Medicare Cover Bathroom Safety Devices?
According to the National Institute on Aging, one-third of seniors over the age of 65 slip and fall each year. With diminished vision, muscle weakness, and balance issues, seniors are especially vulnerable to injuries in the bathroom. Unfortunately, seniors are also at risk for complications from these injuries. A simple fall can hinder an individual’s […]
Does Medicare Cover Back Braces?
Back braces can be very beneficial to seniors with injuries or chronic conditions that cause pain. Professionally fit back braces recommended by your doctor can provide a safe and non-invasive solution to your condition. With guidance from your physician regarding time worn and specific exercises, wearing a back brace can have many positive benefits, including: […]