All about Medicare benefits for seniors
We understand how confusing and complicated Medicare can be. There are a variety of benefits and coverages available through Medicare, including Medicare Advantage and prescription drug programs. To further complicate matters, some health care providers do not accept all Medicare plans.
So why is Medicare important and what does Medicare cover? At Health Services of North Texas, we provide comprehensive resources so seniors and their loved ones can get the most out of their plans. Better understand your Medicare benefits by contacting our clinic in Denton, Plano, and Wylie, TX.
When does Medicare for seniors start?
The enrollment period for Medicare begins three months before your 65th birthday and ends three months after. Disabled people or those with certain health conditions who are under the age of 65 also qualify for Medicare benefits. While most people enroll automatically, more than 50% of seniors who signed up for the first time found the process complicated and confusing. Additionally, more than 35% of older adults felt unprepared to choose the right plan. Learning about Medicare before you reach retirement age is great for finding a plan that works for you.
What providers can Medicare patients see?
Seniors can visit any doctor or health care provider who is enrolled in Medicare and accept new Medicare patients. Please note that some facilities may choose not to participate in Medicare to reduce overall costs. That’s why it’s important to check that your doctor accepts Medicare before scheduling a visit. At Health Services of North Texas, we accept the following Medicare plans in Denton, Plano, and Wylie, TX.
- Aetna
- Aetna life insurance
- Ameriadvantage
- Care Improvement Plus
- CignaHealthSpring
- health choice
- man
- Humana Medicare Advantage (HMO)
- Humana Medicare Advantage (PPO)
- Medicare Part A
- Medicare Part B
- safe horizons
- United HealthCare
- United Health Care Medicare Complete
- AARP Health Care Options
What does Medicare cover?
So what does Medicare cover? The purpose of Medicare is to provide coverage if someone gets sick or injured. General benefits include doctor visits, hospital stays, lab work, and most forms of outpatient care. Over the years, Medicare has evolved to cover preventive services as well. Patients can expect to be screened for breast and cervical cancer, prostate cancer, and other necessary tests. For those who meet certain requirements, Medicare can also potentially pay for medical supplies and equipment.
The ABC(D)s of Medicare
Medicare for Seniors is divided into four different parts. Parts A, B, C, and D cover different services based on your health and needs.
Medicare Part A covers hospital insurance, including hospital stays and nursing care. Seniors can also purchase a Part B supplemental plan, which covers medically necessary services like doctor visits and preventive exams.
Medicare Part C is also known as Medicare Advantage, which is administered by private insurance companies. Part C covers Parts A and B and offers some additional Medicare benefits. Medicare Part D covers prescription drugs so seniors can afford rising drug costs.
More information about Medicare for seniors
Each person has different health care needs. So if you want to know if you have the right plan, you’re not alone. If you have questions or concerns about Medicare for Seniors, please contact the trained staff at Health Services of North Texas. We are proud to offer resources for low-income and underinsured patients in Denton, Plano, and Wylie, TX. Our organization is made up of professionals who care about providing quality, affordable health care.
