FAQ
When can I choose a plan?
- Medicare gives a person turning 65 a 7-month window 3 months before birthday the month of the birthday and 3 months after birthday.
- When your retiring Medicare gives you an eight-month window.
- Every year between October 15 and December 7 anyone on Medicare can change their plan this is known as the Annual open enrollment
- Business plans can be started anytime a year.
- Individual plans are between November 1 and January 31
- Can I get covered outside open enrollment?
- If you lost coverage due to a life-changing event you may qualify.
- Move outside your service area
- Death or divorce of a spouse.
- Losing employer coverage
- Affected by a FEMA natural disaster
- Loss of Medi-Cal or Medicaid
- Change in Medi-Cal or Medicaid due to increase or decrease of income.
- Low-performing plan or loss of provider from plan.
What kind of plans are available to me under Medicare?
- Medicare Advantage Plans - Most of these plans are zero cost depending on the area you live. They usually include a prescription drug program. Many plans have extra benefits like Vision, gym membership, hearing and some dental.
- Medicare Supplement Plans - These plans give you Freedom from Networks and Referrals, you choose your doctor and specialist from anyone who accepts Medicare. Plans vary in cost by age and service area. You also must purchase a Part D plan for your Medications unless you have VA.
What is normally Excluded from Original Medicare and Part D?
- Regular Dental (cleaning and Major work)
- Eye exams related to prescription glasses
- Long term care
- Cosmetic surgery
- Routine foot care
- Cough medicine
- Vitamins
- Hearing exams and Aids
