Medicare and Medicaid have provided millions of Americans with healthcare coverage — regardless of socioeconomic status — since 1965. But not all Medicare and Medicaid plans are equal. We’ve put together some quick tips and recommendations to help you get the most out of your coverage.
Understanding Medicare
Medicare is a federally funded health insurance program for adults 65 and over, or those under 65 with a disability. Whether you’re enrolling for the first time or choosing a new plan, keep these five things in mind:
- Medicare is highly personalized. Just because one plan is right for your neighbor or spouse doesn’t mean that plan is right for you. There are four different types of Medicare plans: Part A, Part B, Part C, and Part D. Each part covers different services. You can enroll in one or a combination. Compare Medicare plans.
- There is a specific window of time to enroll. Your initial enrollment period begins three months before you turn 65 and continues for three months after. If you do not enroll for Medicare within that time, you must wait until general open enrollment between January and March. This not only delays your coverage, but results in fees. If you collect social security before age 65, you will be automatically enrolled and receive your Medicare card in the mail.
- Choosing a Medicare plan is not a one and done decision. Plans change every year, and it’s important to stay updated on how those changes may affect your coverage. If you find your plan doesn’t work for you, you can switch to another during the open enrollment period (January through March).
- Consider supplement plans. These are plans outside of Medicare that supplement the cost of what medicare does not pay for, such as copays and deductibles. These plans do not offer additional health coverage. Learn more about supplement plans.
- Do your research and get professional advice. The choices you make at the beginning of your Medicare journey will shape the options available to you later. For example, the first time you enroll in Medicare may be the only time you can get a supplement plan without being asked about preexisting conditions.
As you age into Medicare, you will automatically receive a handbook (from Medicare) that provides an overview of how it works and the plans available to you. It’s also recommended to seek additional support. The York County Area Agency on Aging offers free Medicare seminars, individualized counseling, and other unbiased education to guide you through the Medicare process. You can also contact Medicare directly.
Engage in life: You are an advocate for your health. Be informed and proactive about the different Medicare plans available to you.
Understanding Medicaid
Unlike Medicare, Medicaid is a federal and state program that provides health coverage to low-income families. To find out if you qualify, contact the County Assistant Office or visit COMPASS, Pennsylvania’s online health and human services platform.
If you qualify for Medicaid, the York County Area Agency on Aging can also help you through the application process.
Avoiding Scams
Sadly, financial and insurance scams and fraud cost older adults $3 billion every year. These resources can help you know what to look for and how to protect yourself.
TroveStreet is Here to Help
Take advantage of our free TroveStreet Planning Tool, which you can access directly in your dashboard or download as a PDF. Want someone to walk you through it? Sign up for our Aging Navigation & Plan Creation package and a TroveStreet navigator will be by your side through the process.
