The official U.S. government Medicare handbook, Medicare & You, is mailed to all Medicare households every September. It contains plenty of information about Medicare benefits, which can be very helpful. If you have a book but aren’t quite sure what to do with it, here are some ways you can use it to your advantage.
Learn Updates About Your Coverage
First, your Medicare coverage can change. It’s important to stay up-to-date on these changes, and your handbook should inform you of them on the “What’s New?” page. For example, the 2021 book had updates on lower out-of-pocket costs for insulin, new coverage for acupuncture visits (for chronic low back pain), and telehealth benefits.
Understand How to Sign Up
If you’re new to Medicare, the Medicare & You handbook has a section about signing up for Medicare. Some people get Original Medicare (Parts A and B) automatically while other people have to enroll on their own. This section will give you detailed instructions on how to enroll and tell you who to contact if you need assistance.
Compare Private Plans in Your Area
There’s a general version of the book online, but the one that’s mailed or sent to you electronically will have location-specific information. It should list the Medicare Advantage, Part D, and Medicare Supplement plans available in your area, so you can compare coverage and rates.
Find Out if You Qualify for a Cost Assistance Program
There are several programs that help beneficiaries save money on their Medicare coverage. The Medicare & You handbook outlines the eligibility guidelines — which are usually your monthly or yearly income, and sometimes your assets — for these various programs. Use your handbook to see if you may qualify for Extra Help, the Medicare Savings Program, or a State Pharmaceutical Assistance Program.
Know Your Rights
If you’re ever denied coverage for an item or service that you believe should be covered, your handbook has helpful information on how to file an appeal. In addition, you’ll find tips to protect yourself from fraud and medical identity theft.
Use the Medicare Handbook as a Reference
It’s difficult, and probably impossible, to remember everything about how Medicare works. Rather than trying to memorize it all, keep your handbook to use as a guide when you need care during the year. Medicare & You includes an extensive list of topics, and a specific section to help you find out if Medicare covers your item, test, or service.
If You Don’t Get Your Handbook
The Medicare & You handbook can help you in many ways throughout the year. If you don’t get it, you call 1-800-MEDICARE and ask that a copy with information for your area be sent to you. Or, if you prefer the electronic version, log into or create an account to sign up for electronic handbooks. Medicare.gov also has a general version that you can download for free.
For other Medicare questions, contact a professional at Oak Haven Insurance Agency.
