All About Medicare Benefits For Seniors

We understand how confusing and complicated Medicare can be. There are a variety of benefits and coverages available through Medicare, including Medicare Advantage and prescription drug programs. To further complicate matters, some healthcare providers do not accept all Medicare plans.

So, why is Medicare important, and what does Medicare cover? At Health Services of North Texas, we provide comprehensive resources so seniors and their loved ones can make the most of their plans. Better understand your Medicare benefits by contacting our clinic in Denton, Plano, and Wylie, TX.

When does Medicare start for seniors?

The enrollment period for Medicare begins three months before your 65th birthday and ends three months later. Disabled individuals or those with certain health conditions who are under 65 also qualify for Medicare benefits. While most people are enrolled automatically, over 50% of seniors enrolling for the first time found the process complicated and confusing. In addition, over 35% of seniors did not feel prepared to choose the right plan. Educating yourself about Medicare before you reach retirement age is ideal for getting a plan that works for you.

Which providers can Medicare patients see?

Seniors can visit any doctor or health care provider that is enrolled in Medicare and accepts new Medicare patients. Keep in mind that some facilities may opt out of Medicare to reduce overhead costs. This is why it is important to verify that your doctor accepts Medicare before scheduling a visit. At Health Services of North Texas, we accept the following Medicare plans in Denton, Plano, and Wylie, TX.

• Aetna

• Aetna Life Insurance

• Ameriadvantage

• Care Improvement Plus

• CignaHealthSpring

• Health Choice

• Humana

• Humana Medicare Advantage (HMO)

• Humana Medicare Advantage (PPO)

• Medicare Part A

• Medicare Part B

• Secure Horizons

• United Health Care

• Medicare Complete by United Health Care

• AARP Healthcare Options

What does Medicare cover?

So, what does Medicare cover? Medicare is intended to provide coverage if someone becomes ill or injured. General benefits include doctor visits, hospitalization, lab work, and most forms of outpatient care. Over the years, Medicare has evolved to also cover preventive services. Patients can expect to get screenings for breast and cervical cancer, prostate cancer, and other necessary tests. For those who meet certain requirements, Medicare can potentially pay for medical supplies and equipment as well.

The ABC(D)s of Medicare

Medicare for seniors is actually broken down into four distinct parts. Parts A, B, C, and D cover different services based on your health and individual needs.

Medicare Part A covers hospital insurance, including hospital stays and nursing care. Seniors may also purchase a supplemental Part B plan, which covers medically necessary services, like doctor visits and preventive screenings.

Medicare Part C is also known as Medicare Advantage, which is administered by private insurance companies. Part C covers Parts A and B while offering some additional Medicare benefits. Medicare Part D covers prescription medications so seniors can afford rising drug costs.

Learn about Medicare for seniors

Each person has different healthcare needs. So, if you want to know whether you have the right plan, you are not alone. If you have questions or concerns about Medicare for seniors, contact the trained staff at Health Services of North Texas. We are proud to offer resources for low-income or underinsured patients in Denton, Plano, and Wylie, TX. Our organization is made up of practitioners who care about providing affordable, quality medical care.