Tag: Medicare
Unlike Medicare, which is fully regulated by the federal government, Medicaid is a joint program of both federal and state governments. The federal government sets guidelines, and states establish their own rules and programs within these broad parameters. Do you know the difference between Medicare and Medicaid? Although you may feel you need a PhD. […]
For years, it has been an article of faith that Medicare would not pay for services such as skilled nursing or physical therapy unless that care improved a patient’s health status. How did this misunderstanding go on for so long? Learning all the ins and outs of Medicare benefits can leave beneficiaries and patients more […]
If you or a family member land in the hospital as an observation patient and think you should be admitted, it’s better to act sooner than later. When it comes to whether or not care is covered by Medicare, the distinction between being “admitted” or just “under observation” is critical. This is especially important when […]
If a beneficiary disagrees with a decision, there are reconsideration and appeals procedures within the Medicare program. Medicare approvals can be tough at times, and some may find their claims come up with the big “D” – denial. So what happens when Medicare denies a beneficiary’s claim for care? While it is not always smooth […]
“Hopefully, older adults who previously were unable to afford to see a therapist will now be more likely to do so,” said Andrea Callow, a policy lawyer with the Center for Medicare Advocacy. Now that 2014 is officially here, it’s time to start reviewing the Obamacare provisions that went into effect January 1. One change […]
The nation’s elderly and disabled Social Security recipients will receive a 1.5 percent increase in payments in 2014. The same COLA will apply to pensions for federal government retirees and most veterans. According to recent news from the Social Security Administration, the Cost Of Living Adjustment (COLA) made to Social Security payments will increase 1.5% […]
Open enrollment for the Medicare Part D Drug plans started on October 15th. You have until December 7th to determine which is the best plan for you in 2014 and make the needed change. It could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. It is Medicare Open Enrollment time once again. Be sure not to […]
Medicare’s open enrollment season begins Tuesday October 15. Making the right choices might save you, or your parents, hundreds or thousands of dollars. Medicare open enrollment period began as of October 15, and beneficiaries have until December 7 to find the right plan and sign up. Since this year is no typical enrollment period, make […]
By one count, nearly one-third of Medicare Advantage plan enrollees say they were denied coverage for treatment by their plans. Such denials of coverage can be enraging or even life-threatening. However, there is an appeal process to resolve these conflicts. If you (or a loved one) have a Medicare Advantage plan, then it is important […]
Federal officials are eager to get the word out that seniors and disabled individuals enrolled in Medicare Part A — which covers hospitalization and limited nursing home care and is free for most beneficiaries – do not need to buy a marketplace plan, because they are already meeting the insurance requirements. Changes in healthcare can […]
