Is your 65th birthday coming right up?

As you approach your 65th birthday, allow us to be the first to say “HAPPY BIRTHDAY” and to remind you of important information regarding your transition to Medicare. Here’s what you need to know about Medicare.

Medicare Benefits: What Is Medicare? What are the different parts of Medicare?

The different parts of Medicare help cover specific services: Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance), Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance), Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage), Medicare Part D (Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage).

What is a Medicare Supplement, also known as a Medigap policy?

A Medigap policy is health insurance sold by private insurance companies to fill the “gaps” in Original Medicare Plan coverage. Medigap policies help pay some of the health care costs that the Original Medicare Plan doesn’t cover.

What are Medigap’s Policy Designs and Benefits?

You may be able to choose up to 12 different standardized Medigap policies (Medigap Plans A through N). Medigap policies must follow Federal and State laws. These laws protect you.

What is Medicare Part C or the Medicare Advantage Plan?

A Medicare Advantage Plan (like an HMO or PPO) is another Medicare health plan choice you may have as part of Medicare. Medicare Advantage Plans, sometimes called “Part C” or “MA Plans,” are offered by private companies approved by Medicare.

What is Medicare Part D or the Prescription Drug Plan

To get Medicare prescription drug coverage, you must join a plan run by an insurance company or other private company approved by Medicare. Each plan can vary in cost and drugs covered.

Which is better for me, a Medigap plan or a Medicare Advantage plan?

A Medigap Policy is a Medicare Supplement insurance plan. A Medicare Advantage plan is a Medicare Part C plan. They are two different coverages.

Do you want to go to any doctor, any hospital, any time, anywhere in the country?

Traditional Medicare allows the free and open choice of physicians and hospitals. In addition, if you wish to see a specialist, no referral is needed. This is an important distinguishing feature of Traditional Medicare: free choice as opposed to having to select a doctor, or hospital in a managed care plan.

What do some of the terms mean?

Glossary: Medigap Terminology, Medicare Terminology, Medicare Advantage Plan Terminology (Part C), Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Terminology (Part D)

How do I replace my Medicare Card?

If you lose or damage your Medicare card, you can obtain a replacement card from Social Security.