Medicare is a vital healthcare plan for many Americans. It provides access to necessary medical services. However, navigating the system can be overwhelming and confusing, especially for those new to Medicare. Understanding the ins and outs of Medicare is crucial to getting the most out of the program. Here are some tips to make the most of Medicare.
Enroll on Time
Keep an eye on the calendar to avoid missing the enrollment dates. Sign up during the Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) to avoid hassles. The IEP lasts for seven months. It starts three months before one’s 65th birthday and continues until three months afterward. The government penalizes people who don’t meet the sign-up deadline because it doesn’t want anyone waiting until they get sick to seek coverage.
Choose an Appropriate Doctor
Whether a person is new to Medicare or reviewing their coverage during the open enrollment, choosing a doctor that fits the given budget and requirements is important. Consider doctors who go the extra mile by getting to know their patients beyond the medical conversations. A doctor can only provide treatment when they’re interested in their patient’s overall well-being.
Read the Fine Print
Before heading into surgery or procedure, check if Medicare covers it. Ask the provider if they participate in Medicare to avoid being surprised by medical bills. If a patient receives a medical bill with big numbers, they should check with their provider to ensure they’ve been billed correctly.
Be Thoroughly Informed About the Benefits
There are many benefits of Medicare that most people are unaware of. Below is a list of lesser-known services provided by Medicare:
- Medicare offers annual wellness visits where one can visit a doctor and review their medical history. Weight and blood pressure check-ups and some basic screenings are included.
- Medicare pays for the first pair of glasses one may need after cataract surgery. Some Medicare Advantage plans also include vision coverage.
- Medicare covers virtual check-ups with doctors via phone or video chat.
- If one has diabetes or kidney disease or has undergone a kidney transplant in the past 36 months, Medicare will pay for a nutrition assessment and individual or group counseling sessions.
- Medicare also pays for eight counseling sessions to help people who want to quit smoking.
