The coronavirus pandemic is a serious concern for people in all age groups, but especially for the elderly and those with underlying health problems such as diabetes, lung, and heart issues. While the medical community works on the development of a vaccine, there are ways for you to avoid exposure to the virus and to […]
Favorite Healthy Summer Meals
Besides warm sunny days, summer is the season for a bounty of our favorite fresh and healthy fruits and vegetables. And the best part of summer shopping is that these tasty, nutritional foods are readily available at grocery stores and farmer markets with friendly prices. Preparing dishes with seasonal produce provides us with essential vitamins […]
Staying Safe in the Sun
After months of staying inside during the recent stay at home orders, people are looking forward to safely spending time outdoors in the warmer weather. In any year, the arrival of summer brings out people enjoying walks, going to the beach or the pool, visiting friends, sitting on the patio, and having picnics in the […]
Safe Summer Travels
With the end of some stay-at-home orders across the country, many people are venturing out to see loved ones and friends, taking trips, and getting out of the house. But, the COVID-19 pandemic isn’t over, so it’s as important as ever to stay healthy and safe during this time. Medicare recipients – both seniors and […]
What does Medicare Part A cover?
Original Medicare health care insurance is separated into two parts, Part A is your hospital insurance, and Part B is medical insurance. When you turn 65, you become eligible for Medicare benefits. If you are already receiving retirement benefits from either Social Security or the Railroad Retirement Board when you turn 65, these administrations automatically […]
Should I get a Coronavirus test?
During a pandemic, it can be nerve-wracking to experience any changes in your health. If you start to feel ill for any reason, call your doctor. Medicare has expanded its telehealth services so you won’t have to risk going into a doctor’s office for a visit. Your physician will be able to evaluate your symptoms […]
Does Medicare Cover Lisinopril?
If your health care provider prescribes lisinopril to treat a qualifying condition, your Medicare benefits may cover some or all of the cost of this medication. Conditions Treated by Lisinopril Known as an ACE inhibitor, lisinopril is prescribed to aide in the recovery of a heart attack and for the treatment of high blood pressure […]
Can I Switch Medicare Plans?
Once you become eligible to sign up for Medicare, there are many plans available to choose from. Selecting the best plan can seem like a daunting challenge. You may find a good plan initially, but certain aspects of an insurance policy can change each year and so can your health. If you decide that you […]
Does Medicare Cover Lasix?
Diuretics like Lasix help your body reduce excess fluid that may be built up in the body due to certain health conditions. If your physician prescribes this medication for you, coverage through your Medicare benefits may be dependent on several factors. Conditions Treated by Lasix Lasix, a brand name version of furosemide, treats edema, or […]
Does Medicare Cover Ativan?
Ativan is a well-known brand name for lorazepam. Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage for this medication may require proof of medical necessity. Conditions Treated by Ativan As a benzodiazepine, lorazepam, sold under the brand name Ativan, can help you manage anxiety. Doctors may also prescribe Ativan to help treat symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, bipolar […]
Does Medicare Cover Coumadin?
Coumadin, a blood thinner, is prescribed to help reduce your risk of developing a blood clot. Medicare benefits from a Part D Prescription Drug Plan that cover this medication can reduce your out-of-pocket expenses if your physician prescribes Coumadin. Conditions Treated by Coumadin Blood clots can develop in the heart, lungs or in veins and […]
Do I Qualify for a Special Enrollment Period?
A Special Enrollment Period is a time that you are allowed to sign up for a health insurance plan outside the traditional enrollment periods. In most cases, you are eligible to sign up for Medicare coverage during your Initial Enrollment Period, which generally occurs when a person reaches the age of 65, or qualify under […]
Does Medicare Cover Omeprazole?
Omeprazole is a generic form of a medication that can be purchased either OTC (over the counter) or with a doctor’s prescription. Brand names include Prilosec OTC, Zegerid OTC, OmePPi and Zegerid. A discussion with your doctor should make it clear which version of the drug is suitable for your medical condition. Benefits and side […]
Does Medicare Cover Metformin?
Metformin is a generic diabetes medication, which is marketed under the brand names of Glucophage, Glucophage XR, Riomet, Glumetza and Fortamet. It is prescribed for people with diabetes mellitus or sugar diabetes, more commonly known as type 2 diabetes, which causes high blood sugar (glucose) levels. When blood glucose is elevated beyond the normal range, […]
When Can I Enroll in Part D?
Enrolling in Medicare is an important step for many people in protecting their health and their finances as they age. The Medicare program assists millions of seniors and certain individuals with qualifying disabilities, and without Medicare, some Americans would struggle to afford the cost of healthcare and related expenses. The Medicare program is broken down […]
Does Medicare Cover Hydrocodone?
Pain management is necessary in a wide range of medical situations, including after an injury, after certain surgeries, or during the course of treating symptoms of an illness. There are many approaches to pain management that utilize the body’s own healing power to alleviate pain, but in some cases, prescription pain medications like hydrocodone are […]
Does Medicare Cover Zocor?
Cholesterol is a naturally occurring substance in the body. It helps digestion and keeps cells healthy. Unfortunately, this wax-like substance can also cause cardiovascular problems when large amounts are present. Too much cholesterol can lead to plaque that builds up on the walls of arteries and potentially leads to blockages in blood flow. Ultimately, this […]
Does My Part D Premium Depend on My Income?
Although Medicare is often the medical insurance program of choice for retired individuals and those who qualify due to disability, there are many Medicare recipients who rely on the program while still working and earning a paycheck. In most circumstances, Medicare Part D, the prescription drug benefit, is optional coverage for prescription medications that you […]
Does Medicare Cover Norvasc?
Norvasc is the brand name for a drug named amlodipine. It is a calcium channel blocker used to treat high blood pressure and angina or chest pain. For high blood pressure, it works by slackening blood vessels to facilitate blood flow. This is critical because high blood pressure can lead to strokes, heart attacks, kidney […]
What is Step Therapy?
Step therapy may sound like an exercise program, but it actually refers to managed care for prescription drug therapies and a process that healthcare insurers use to control prescription drugs costs. Step therapy is also known as step protocol or a fail first requirement. It is implemented by prescription drug insurance providers by using the […]