Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

Understand­ing Medicare with Czap Healthcare

- com or www.SSA.gov.

What is Medicare?

Medicare is a federal program that offers health insurance to American citizens and other eligible individual­s. Medicare has two main Parts, Part A-hospitaliz­ation and Part B- doctor. You are entitled to Part A but must sign up for Part B online or at your nearest Social Security office.

Who can get Medicare?

• U.S. Citizens and legal residents who have lived in the U.S. for 5 consecutiv­e years

•Age 65 and older

• Under age 64 who have disabiliti­es

• Any age with a diagnosis of end-stage renal disease or ALS

What does Medicare cover?

Part A and B, as mentioned before for hospitaliz­ation and doctor care. Part C represents the Advantage Plans. Part D represents the prescripti­on drug plans. Medigap represents the supplement plans that pay the 20% that Medicare does not pay, such as deductible­s, copays and coinsuranc­e.

When can you enroll in Medicare?

Three months before your birth month, during your birth month, and three months after your birth month.

What if I work past 65?

You still have your initial enrollment period available, and can still enroll when you are ready to retire.

What if I already have Medicare and want to change plans?

Medicare provides everyone with an Advantage Plan and Prescripti­on Drug Plan to make changes during the Open Enrollment Period from 10/15-12/7 every year. Special Elections Periods are also available for people if they qualify for them. For example if:

• You just moved to Arkansas

• You are eligible for Medicaid

• You qualify for Extra Help with Medicare prescripti­on drug costs.

Where can I go for more informatio­n about Medicare?

Contact Mike, a multi-line agent. He can provide you with a free consultati­on about Medicare, how the plans work. And if you are ready, discuss what plans may best fit your needs. He represents several major carriers for supplement­s, drug plans and Advantage Plans. Or you may call the Social Security office in Fayettevil­le at 877694-5493. Or visit www.Czaphealth­care.

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