Volume 14, Number 5: September 2006
ADVANTAGE PRIME TIME
Specifically for Seniors
Q&A: If You're Nearing Medicare Age
Q: When should I apply for Medicare coverage?
A: Most people age 65 or older are eligible for Medicare. The government asks that you contact the Social Security Administration three months before your 65th birthday. You do not have to be retired or preparing to retire. (If you already receive Social Security benefits, you will be contacted a few months before you become eligible and automatically will be enrolled in Medicare.) Your initial enrollment period, during which you can choose optional coverage, is seven months long and begins three months before your birthday. Don't wait.
Q: I'm confused about the Medicare "Parts" and whether Medicare is free.
A: Medicare now has four parts, A-D. Part A helps pay for hospital care and is free to those eligible for Medicare. Optional Part B helps pay for doctors' services and many other medical services and supplies. It costs approximately $88 per month. Part C is Medicare Advantage, which gives you the option of using government-approved provider plans, such as CHP Advantage Plus and CHP Retiree Advantage, for all of your care. Part C costs and added benefits vary among providers. Optional Part D helps pay for prescribed medications. It is offered through approved providers for a fee. CHP Advantage Plans cover all Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D. You can receive your Medicare benefits through CHP Advantage Plus or CHP Retiree Advantage. You must have Part B to enroll. Enrollment periods are specified by the federal office called the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).
Q: How do I apply or get more information?
A: You must enroll in Part B through the Social Security Administration, not CHP. Here are options:
- Call or visit your local Social Security office, found in the telephone book.
- Call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213. TTY users: 1-800-325-0778.
- Visit www.socialsecurity.gov on the web. Some people who meet certain conditions are able to enroll by computer.
- For information you may also call: 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users: 1-877-486-2048.