Medicare
How can I enroll in Medicare?
Medicare is health insurance for people 65 or older. You’re first eligible to sign up for Medicare 3 months before you turn 65.
If you need to enroll in Medicare, call 1-800-772-1213 or visit www.medicare.gov. The Medicare website also has a tool to help you determine if you are eligible for Medicare and when you can enroll. It is called the Medicare Eligibility Tool.
I lost my Medicare card. How can I get a new card?
If you lost your medicare card, contact your local Social Security office at 1-800-Medicare or visit the Medicare website immediately to get a new one. Remember to protect your Medicare card just as you would a credit card. Your Medicare card can be used to submit fraudulent claims.
I moved to a different state. How can I update my address with Medicare?
Contact your nearest Social Security office to let them know that your address has changed. For any specific questions, please call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213.
Inflation Reduction Act - Insulin Medicare
The Inflation Reduction Act is slashing healthcare costs for seniors on Medicare and those with disabilities by improving access to affordable treatments and strengthening the Medicare program.
The cost of a month’s supply of each Part D-covered insulin is capped at $35, and you don’t have to pay a deductible for insulin. Other questions about insulin coverage?
If you get a 60- or 90-day supply of insulin, your costscan’t be more than $35 for each month’s supply of each covered insulin.
If you take insulin through a traditional pump that is covered under Medicare’s durable medical equipment benefit, that insulin is covered under Medicare Part B — these benefits go into effect on July 1, 2023.
Do I need to do anything?
If you take insulin, get help comparing plan options and costs:
Call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users can call 1-877-486-2048.
Contact your local State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) to get free personalized health insurance counseling.
Wheelchair Requirements
Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers power-operated vehicles (scooters) and manual wheelchairs as durable medical equipment (DME) that your doctor prescribes for use in your home.
You need to have a face-to-face examination and a written prescription from a doctor or other treating provider before Medicare helps pay for a power wheelchair. Part B covers power wheelchairs only when they're medically necessary.
If you would like my help with a medicare issue, please call my Fresno Office at (559) 495-1620.