June 27, 2022
When Medicare benefits were created in 1965, they reflected the restrictions and limitations of most health insurance at that time. The federal law that created Medicare has specific provisions that exclude coverage for certain things, like dental care and routine vision services. Long-term care services are additionally excluded because they do not meet the definition […]
May 27, 2022
Hospice is a program of end-of-life pain management and comfort care for those with a terminal illness. In this blog about Medicare-covered hospice, we write directly to patients as if they are the ones taking these actions or making these decisions. However, discussions about hospice often involve caregivers and family members as well. If you […]
March 28, 2022
Things don’t always go according to plan. When unforeseen challenges or mistakes occur with your Medicare, it is helpful to know where to voice your concerns and who can help. First, it’s helpful to know how to file a grievance with a Medicare Advantage or Part D plan. A grievance is a formal complaint that you […]
June 30, 2021
First, learn Medicare coverage rules to avoid running into issues. You do not need to know all of Medicare’s coverage rules, but before getting a service, check to make sure Medicare covers it and if there are any steps you must take to receive it. If Original Medicare or your Medicare Advantage Plan does not […]
May 28, 2021
In this blog post we discuss how to file an appeal with Original Medicare or your Medicare Advantage Plan. What is an appeal? An appeal is a formal request for review of a decision made by Original Medicare or your Medicare Advantage Plan. If you are denied coverage for a health service or item, you […]
February 21, 2019
Medicare Supplement, or “Medigap,” insurance policies are designed to fill the cost-sharing gaps for people with Original Medicare. You may have questions about when and how to apply for a Medigap insurance policy. Your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) will help you assess Medigap options and guidelines specific to your state and your individual circumstances.
December 6, 2018
If you’re a Medicare beneficiary or caring for someone who’s on Medicare, you may at times ask yourself, “Who do I call to report a quality of care concern?” Problems can come up wherever health care providers interact with patients including hospitals, nursing facilities, doctors’ offices and at home. Generally, Medicare beneficiaries can use two procedures—one at the federal level and the other at the state level—to report quality of care concerns. Your state SHIP program can help assess quality of care concerns and decide how to proceed.