Medicare is a federal government initiative offering health insurance coverage to specific groups of Americans, including those aged 65 and older, individuals under 65 receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), and those under 65 with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). The program comprises two primary parts:

Part A:

Part A primarily covers inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facility care, and home health care. Upon Medicare enrollment, individuals receive these benefits automatically without paying additional premiums, as they are funded through prior tax contributions.

Part B:
Part B provides health insurance coverage for medically necessary services, such as doctor's office visits, lab work, x-rays, outpatient surgeries, and preventive services like cancer screenings. It also requires a monthly premium payment.

Treviño Insurance Group's licensed agents can assist in navigating Medicare options, explaining differences between Medicare Advantage Plans and Medicare Supplement insurance plans, tailoring recommendations based on individual health, budget, and preferences.

Medicare Advantage Plans:

Private insurance companies regulated by the government offer Medicare Advantage plans. These plans, subject to government standards, often include prescription drug coverage, with some offering additional benefits like hearing and vision coverage. The specifics of each plan, including benefits and network providers, vary, necessitating careful review.

Enrollment in a Medicare Advantage plan is typically done during the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15th to December 7th). Exceptions exist, such as turning 65, retirement, relocation, Social Security assistance (Extra Help), state assistance (Medicaid), or being diagnosed with a qualifying disability or chronic health condition.

Medicare Supplement Insurance Plans:

Private insurance companies sell Medicare Supplement Insurance Plans to fill gaps in Original Medicare coverage. These plans help cover costs that Original Medicare does not, and they may also include coverage for services not covered by Original Medicare, such as medical care outside the U.S.

To purchase a Medicare Supplement policy, individuals must be enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B, paying a monthly premium in addition to the Part B premium paid to Medicare. Each policy covers only one person, and items not covered include prescription drugs, long-term care, vision care, dental care, hearing aids, and private-duty nursing.

Medicare Prescription Drug Plans (Part D):

Part D is an optional stand-alone plan providing prescription drug coverage for beneficiaries retaining Original Medicare. Though optional, late enrollment in Part D may result in a penalty. Treviño Insurance Group can address questions regarding this penalty and other Part D concerns.