As you can guess from our name, we at Jeannie Pierce Insurance Agency know a thing or two about insurance–specifically, our team specializes in health insurance, including Medicare. We understand that the Medicare system can be confusing to navigate, and we are happy to provide assistance and answer any questions you may have. In this article, we’ll provide answers to some of the Medicare questions that we have heard most often, so you have a better idea of where to get started.
What Should I Do to Prepare to Enroll in Medicare?
One of the most common Medicare questions we receive is how to enroll in the program, or what steps someone should take in order to prepare to do so. Conveniently, the enrollment process is fairly straightforward: enrollment will open up for you in the three months leading up to your 65th birthday, and if you enroll within that period, you’ll receive your benefits starting the first month after that birthday. The only thing you really need to do is sign up via Social Security, although it’s never a bad idea to consult an expert first.
How is Medicare Different From Medicaid?
Another Medicare question that we hear frequently is what the difference is between Medicare and Medicaid. The answer is that Medicare is designed to provide healthcare to seniors or disabled individuals, while Medicaid is designed to provide health insurance to low-income individuals who otherwise could not afford this coverage.
What Does Medicare Not Cover?
A third common Medicare question that our customers ask is what the program does not cover–in other words, are there any services that you will still need to be prepared to pay out-of-pocket? The most common services that are not covered by Medicare are elective cosmetic surgery, chiropractic treatments, orthopedic shoes, and routine care of the feet (such as removing corns).