Medical bills can pose an overwhelming burden, especially for seniors and individuals living on a fixed income. Unexpected health emergencies or chronic conditions can quickly escalate into unmanageable financial crises. Fortunately, organizations like Dollar For exist to alleviate this strain. Dollar For is a national nonprofit that specializes in helping […]
Medicare & Medicaid
Key Medicare Changes to Watch for in 2025
In 2025, several important changes to Medicare will take effect, significantly affecting retirees. These changes include modifications to Medicare Part D, the introduction of out-of-pocket spending caps, new rules regarding weight loss drugs, updates to Medicare Advantage, and new benefits for family caregiver services and mental health providers. Here’s a […]
Medigap: Medicare Supplement Insurance
Medigap is a supplemental insurance policy that helps cover some of the healthcare costs not covered by Medicare, such as deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. These policies are sold by private insurance companies and are meant to complement your Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance). Here’s a […]
Original Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage
When it comes to choosing between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage, the path you take can significantly impact your medical care and costs. Original Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage Original Medicare: Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Part B (Medical Insurance). Allows you to see any doctor or specialist who accepts Medicare. […]
Medicare and Medigap Insurance Coverage When Traveling Outside the United States
Medicare provides limited coverage for healthcare services outside the U.S. and its territories, including Guam, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and others. Here’s how the various parts of Medicare, along with Medigap, handle international travel: Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Part B (Medical Insurance) Medicare Part A and […]
Dr. Mehmet Oz’s Nomination to Lead Medicare and Medicaid
President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Dr. Mehmet Oz to lead the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), a pivotal agency overseeing healthcare programs for over 160 million Americans. About Dr. Mehmet Oz: Dr. Oz is a cardiothoracic surgeon and television personality, widely recognized for hosting “The Dr. Oz Show.” […]
12 Free Annual Medicare Preventive Services
Medicare Part B offers a range of preventive services that beneficiaries can receive annually at no out-of-pocket cost, provided the healthcare provider accepts assignment. These services are designed to detect health issues early and promote overall wellness. Here are 12 such services: Annual Wellness Visit (AWV): A yearly appointment to […]
A Step-by-Step Guide to Medicare Open Enrollment
Here is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the Medicare Open Enrollment period (October 15 – December 7) effectively: 1. Review Your Current Plan and the Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) What is the ANOC? Your current Medicare Advantage or Part D plan sends an Annual Notice of Change […]
When and How to Sign Up for Medicare at Age 65 During the Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)
Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) is a seven-month window surrounding your 65th birthday. It starts three months before the month you turn 65, includes your birthday month, and ends three months after. Here’s how you can enroll: Sign up for Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Part B (Medical Insurance) […]
Preventing Hospice Fraud
Hospice fraud, where scammers enroll non-terminally ill patients into hospice care without their knowledge, has become a significant issue. This type of fraud can severely affect seniors when they genuinely need hospice care later in life. Impact on Seniors Medical Care Restrictions: When seniors are fraudulently enrolled in hospice care, […]