November is Home Care, Hospice, and Palliative Care Awareness Month: Understanding Your Options When Planning for In-Home Care

November is Home Care, Hospice, and Palliative Care Month, making it a great time to educate our readers on the various options available to help individuals remain in their homes as they age, while receiving quality care when needed. Whether it’s assistance with daily tasks or specialized medical care, there are several services available that can help people live comfortably and independently for as long as possible. But what do these services include, and how […]

Understanding Your Options for Ancillary Dental Coverage During National Dental Hygiene Month

October marks National Dental Hygiene Month—a perfect time to focus on maintaining your oral health. For Medicare beneficiaries, understanding which dental services are covered by Medicare and where additional coverage might be necessary is key to overall well-being. This blog will explain what Medicare does and doesn’t cover for dental care and explore your options for additional (or ancillary) dental coverage. What Dental Services Are Covered Under Medicare? Medicare covers many healthcare needs, but routine […]

Breast Cancer Awareness Month: How Medicare Supports Preventive Services

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about breast cancer and the importance of early detection. For Medicare beneficiaries, understanding available preventive services can make a significant difference in maintaining health and well-being. Breast Cancer Screening and Medicare Coverage Medicare provides coverage for essential preventive services, including breast cancer screenings. These services help detect potential issues early when treatment is most effective. Here’s what Medicare offers: 1. Mammograms Medicare Part […]

What to Expect in Your Medicare Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) for 2025

As we head into the 2025 Medicare season, you’ll be receiving your Medicare Annual Notice of Change (ANOC). This letter brings important updates about your plan, including changes to coverage, costs, and provider networks. Let’s walk through what to look out for and how to make sure your plan continues to fit your healthcare needs. Why You Should Pay Attention to Your ANOC Each fall, Medicare Advantage and Part D plan members receive the ANOC, […]

Alzheimer’s Awareness Month: How Medicare Can Support You and Your Loved Ones

As we honor Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, it’s important to understand how Medicare can help those affected by Alzheimer’s disease. Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, or family member, navigating healthcare can be challenging—but Medicare provides essential coverage that can ease the burden of managing this condition. By being informed, you can ensure you or your loved one receives the best care available. Recognizing Early Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease Early detection of Alzheimer’s disease can significantly impact […]

Happy Vision Health Month!

Exploring what’s covered under Medicare & your Vision care options August is the perfect time to focus on your eye health because it’s National Vision Health Month! As we age, keeping an eye on our vision is more important than ever, especially when considering what Medicare covers—and what it doesn’t. Let’s look into why regular eye exams are a clear choice for maintaining good vision, and how Medicare plays a role in your eye care. […]

August is National Immunization Awareness Month

Understanding Immunization Coverage under Medicare Part B & D August marks National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM), an annual observance to emphasize the importance of vaccinations for individuals of all ages. For Medicare beneficiaries, immunizations play a crucial role in maintaining health and preventing serious diseases. The Importance of Immunizations Immunizations are one of the most effective ways to protect against infectious diseases. Vaccines work by stimulating the immune system to recognize and combat pathogens, such […]

Exploring Medicare Coverage and Travel: Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Summer is the perfect time for seniors to embark on new adventures, whether exploring national parks across the U.S. or visiting exotic destinations abroad. As you plan your travels, understanding how your Medicare coverage works away from home is crucial. Here, we address the most frequently asked questions about Medicare and travel, ensuring you’re well-prepared for any health-related needs during your summer journeys. Coverage Outside the U.S.: Does Medicare Cover Medical Care While I’m Traveling […]

Fun in the Sun: Skin Protection and Medicare Coverage Tips for Summer

As we soak up the sun this summer, it’s essential to balance enjoyment with skin protection, especially for seniors who face increased risks of skin cancer. Did you know that UV rays from the sun are the primary cause of skin cancer? But fear not! With practical tips and understanding Medicare coverage, you can stay safe and enjoy sunny days responsibly. Protecting Your Skin: Practical Tips Seek Shade Strategically During peak sun hours (10 a.m. […]

Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness

As we journey through life, the health of our brain becomes increasingly important, especially for those of us who are Medicare beneficiaries. June marks Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about Alzheimer’s disease, other dementias and emphasizing the importance of brain health. Understanding your Medicare coverage benefits is key to taking proactive steps to support your cognitive well-being. Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, […]

Embracing Elder Care: Exploring Medicare Coverage SNF Benefits During Nursing Home Week

As we observe Nursing Home Week, we want to take a moment to acknowledge the dedicated nurses, caregivers, and staff who provide round-the-clock care to our loved ones. This week serves as a reminder of the commitment to ensuring the well-being and comfort of our elderly population. For seniors and their families, understanding how Medicare intertwines with nursing care is crucial for planning and ensuring access to the necessary services. Medical Coverage for Nursing Home […]

Introducing the New Medicare Payment Plan for Prescription Drugs

Get ready for a game-changer in managing your healthcare costs! Starting January 1, 2025, Medicare Part D is rolling out an exciting new program under the Inflation Reduction Act. The Medicare Prescription Payment Plan will revolutionize how you pay for your prescription drugs by allowing you to spread out your out-of-pocket costs over the year. What’s in Store for You: Monthly Payment Magic: Say goodbye to unpredictable costs! All Medicare Part D plans will now […]

Unlocking the Potential of March Nutrition Month: Exploring Medicare’s Wellness Programs

March is Nutrition Month, a time to celebrate healthy eating and education. But did you know that Medicare covers more than just healthcare?  It also offers a range of programs aimed at promoting overall well-being, including nutrition education. In this article, we’ll explore the significance of nutrition in preventative care and highlight the various nutrition programs available through Medicare. The Importance of Nutrition in Preventative Care: Nutrition plays a pivotal role in maintaining good health […]

Medicare Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs)

Exploring the 3 Ways You May Qualify Medicare offers Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs) that allow individuals to enroll in or switch Medicare plans outside of the standard enrollment periods. These SEPs are crucial for individuals who experience certain life events or qualify for specific circumstances. Let’s explore what qualifies you for a SEP and how you can take advantage of them. Qualifying for a Special Enrollment Period There are three main reasons why you may […]

15 Essential Medicare Benefits You Might Not Know About

Get the most of your coverage so you can live your BEST LIFE! When it comes to Medicare, there’s more than meets the eye. In this blog, we’ll explore 15 lesser-known services covered by Original Medicare, with a focus on Original Medicare Part B. Whether you’re a new beneficiary or a seasoned one, understanding these services can help you make the most of your coverage. Welcome to Medicare Preventive Visit Upon enrolling in Medicare, you’re […]

Choosing Your Medicare Advantage Plan: HMOs vs. PPOs

Choosing the right health plan shouldn’t be complicated. In this blog, we’ll explain the main differences between them, providing insights to help you make informed decisions. Think of this as your handy guide, with essential questions to make your healthcare choices easier and help you confidently pick between HMOs and PPOs. HMO vs. PPO: What You Need to Know HMOs are known for being cost-effective with designated provider networks, while PPOs offer more flexibility at […]

Walk Your Dog Month: Motivating Wellness in 2024!

Unlocking Medicare Coverage Tips to Keep You on Track All Year Long As we stride into the new year, what better way to embrace a healthier lifestyle than by celebrating “Walk Your Dog Month”? The simple act of walking your dog not only brings joy to your furry companion but also holds the key to enhancing your overall health and well-being. In the spirit of this canine-inspired fitness journey, let’s explore how a daily stroll […]

Streamlining your Medicare Finances Through Automatic Payment programs

Many Beneficiaries wonder, what the best way is to pay for Medicare. In this blog, we’ll break down the essential details in simple terms, so you can effortlessly manage your healthcare expenses, and avoid a potential loss in coverage. For the majority, Medicare Part A doesn’t require a monthly premium. Nevertheless, if you’re subscribed to Medicare Part B and you’re already receiving benefits from Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board, your Medicare Part B premium […]

Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Helping Beneficiaries Navigate Their Medicare Coverage and Prevention

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to spreading knowledge about the most common type of cancer found in women. As Medicare beneficiaries, it’s crucial for us to stay informed and be proactive when it comes to our health. Here’s what you need to know about breast cancer awareness and the preventive screenings covered by Medicare. Breast Cancer and Age Women over 60 make up nearly half of new breast cancer cases, and […]

3 Common Mistakes to Avoid During the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)!

The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is a crucial time of year for Medicare recipients to reevaluate their coverage and make necessary changes. This period, which runs from October 15 to December 7 annually, offers the opportunity to find more affordable coverage, reduce prescription drug costs, or even get more coverage for a similar price. To help you make the most of the AEP, we’ve identified three common mistakes to avoid. Ignoring Your Medicare Annual […]