The Dos and Don'ts of Medicare
So your birthday is right around the corner, and this year that means you're ready for Medicare. It does, doesn't it? Are there requirements other than age? Where do you even sign up? If you're thinking seriously about Medicare for the first time, these questions and many more are probably swirling in your mind. The ins and outs of Medicare can be complex and confusing, but you'll be fine if you follow a few do's and don'ts when planning and using your Medicare coverage.
Do Your Homework
Medicare offers multiple plans and coverage options, all of which come with registration deadlines. Choosing the right plan for you and getting coverage in place require you to be familiar with your options, so be sure to read up …show more content…
You will be eligible for coverage even if you have had health problems in the past or are currently battling illness.
Do Apply Regardless of Work History
If you haven't worked long enough, you may not be eligible for certain Medicare plans. This doesn't disqualify you from Medicare completely, however. You may still be able to buy into a plan or receive coverage thanks to your spouse's work record or a former spouse's work record.
Don't Ignore the Formulary
Medicare offers several different prescription drug plans, and each covers different medications. These medications are listed in the plan's formulary. If you take maintenance medications, be sure to choose a prescription plan that covers your medicine. Otherwise you could be forced to pay for these medications yourself.
Do Get Help
If you find yourself confused and questioning anything about your Medicare enrollment and plan options be sure to get help. The government's official Medicare site can link you to assistance as can the Healthcare.gov website. Simply provide your zip code to the website to find local agencies who can help you enroll and answer your
So your birthday is right around the corner, and this year that means you're ready for Medicare. It does, doesn't it? Are there requirements other than age? Where do you even sign up? If you're thinking seriously about Medicare for the first time, these questions and many more are probably swirling in your mind. The ins and outs of Medicare can be complex and confusing, but you'll be fine if you follow a few do's and don'ts when planning and using your Medicare coverage.
Do Your Homework
Medicare offers multiple plans and coverage options, all of which come with registration deadlines. Choosing the right plan for you and getting coverage in place require you to be familiar with your options, so be sure to read up …show more content…
You will be eligible for coverage even if you have had health problems in the past or are currently battling illness.
Do Apply Regardless of Work History
If you haven't worked long enough, you may not be eligible for certain Medicare plans. This doesn't disqualify you from Medicare completely, however. You may still be able to buy into a plan or receive coverage thanks to your spouse's work record or a former spouse's work record.
Don't Ignore the Formulary
Medicare offers several different prescription drug plans, and each covers different medications. These medications are listed in the plan's formulary. If you take maintenance medications, be sure to choose a prescription plan that covers your medicine. Otherwise you could be forced to pay for these medications yourself.
Do Get Help
If you find yourself confused and questioning anything about your Medicare enrollment and plan options be sure to get help. The government's official Medicare site can link you to assistance as can the Healthcare.gov website. Simply provide your zip code to the website to find local agencies who can help you enroll and answer your