Medicare Education

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Welcome to Your Medicare Resource Hub

At Scenic Mountain Medical Center, we understand that navigating Medicare can be challenging. That’s why we’ve partnered with Chapter, a team of licensed independent Medicare advisors, to offer you personalized, one-on-one counseling at no cost. Whether you’re turning 65 or already enrolled, we’re here to help you find high-quality, affordable coverage that meets your health and wellness needs.

Discover Savings: Never overpay for healthcare. Chapter’s expert advisors will find the most affordable plan that covers your prescriptions and doctor visits.

Access the Care You Deserve: Medicare can be the most comprehensive coverage you’ve ever had. Let us help you make the most of it, ensuring you can continue to receive the same great care from Scenic Mountain Medical Center.

Your Medicare Questions, Answered: Confused about Medicare? Chapter’s friendly advisors are here to help with all your questions, Monday through Saturday. From understanding what’s covered to exploring your options, they’re just a call or click away.

Call 432-897-4068

 

Key Medicare Dates

Medicare Open Enrollment (Oct. 15 – Dec. 7)

  • Change your Medicare coverage for the following year, with new coverage starting Jan. 1.
  • Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment (Jan. 1 – March 31) Switch Medicare Advantage plans or return to Original Medicare. You can’t change prescription drug plans during this period. Visit Medicare.gov or call 800-MEDICARE.
  • Ensure Continuity of Care with Scenic Mountain Medical Center. We’re committed to ensuring you continue to receive the high-quality care you’ve come to expect from Scenic Mountain Medical Center, no matter which Medicare plan you choose. Chapter’s Medicare Advisors understand the unique needs of this stage of life. They are dedicated to taking the time to address all your questions and concerns, ensuring seamless coordination of your care by our experienced multidisciplinary geriatric team.

Medicare Insurance Plans Accepted by Scenic Mountain Medical Center

Important Notice: It is especially important that you take action as soon as possible to review alternate options. Otherwise, you may not be able to access non-emergency care at Scenic Mountain Medical Center without prior approval.

Medicare FAQs:

1. What is Medicare?

  • a. Medicare is a federal health insurance program for:
    • i. People aged 65 and older
    • ii. Those under 65 with a disability who have been on Social Security for 24 months
    • iii. Anyone with end-stage renal disease or ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis)
  • b. When you enroll in Medicare, you have two main options:
    • i. Original Medicare: This includes Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance). You can add Part D for prescription drug coverage and a Medicare Supplement plan to help with out-of-pocket costs.
    • ii. Advantage: An alternative to Original Medicare. These bundled plans include Part A, Part B, and usually Part D, plus additional benefits. Medicare Advantage plans often have lower out-of-pocket costs and work like an HMO or PPO.

2. When do I sign up for Medicare?

Your initial enrollment period starts three months before the month you turn 65, and ends three months after. If you have qualifying employer insurance, you may defer your enrollment.

3. What are the different parts of Medicare?

  • a. Part A: Hospital care.
  • b. Part B: Out-patient medical care, like doctor’s visits.
  • c. Part D: Drug coverage.
  • d. Part C (Medicare Advantage): Combines Parts A, B, and D into one plan.

4. How much does Medicare cost?

  • a. Most Americans don’t pay anything for Part A, but there is a premium for Part B based on income. Part D is optional and requires a separate purchase.

5. Does Medicare cover all of my medical costs?

  • a. Original Medicare covers 80% of medical costs with no out-of-pocket maximum. Many people choose a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) with Original Medicare or instead pick a Medicare Advantage plan to cover all medical costs.

6. What is a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan?

  • a. These plans supplement Original Medicare, covering much of the 20% not covered by Medicare. With a Medigap plan, you can see any doctor that accepts Medicare.

7. What is a Medicare Advantage plan?

  • a. Medicare Advantage plans replace Original Medicare and often include additional benefits like dental and vision. These plans may have restrictions on which doctors you can see.

8. When is enrollment?

  • a. Initial Enrollment Period: A seven-month window starting three months before you turn 65, including your birthday month, and ending three months after.
  • b. Medicare Open Enrollment (Oct. 15 – Dec. 7): Change your Medicare coverage for the following year, with new coverage starting Jan. 1.
  • c. Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment (Jan. 1 – March 31): Switch Medicare Advantage plans or return to Original Medicare. You can’t change prescription drug plans during this period.
  • d. General Enrollment Period (Jan. 1 – March 31): Sign up for Medicare Part A and B if you missed your initial enrollment. You may face late penalties.
  • e. Special Enrollment Period: You can enroll or switch plans outside the usual periods if your situation changes, like retiring or moving out of your plan’s service area.