Appeal basics

…appeals – This section includes information about how to appeal an Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA) determination (meaning you pay a higher Part B or Part D premium). If you…

How to enroll in prescription drug coverage

…D plan to receive drug benefits. If you are enrolled in a Medicare Medical Savings Accounts (MSA), Private Fee-for-Service (PFFS) plan without drug coverage, or Medicare Cost Plan, you can…

MSA plan basics

…in-network providers or facilities. All MSA plans also must cover out-of-network care, but you may pay a higher cost. Medicare MSA plans are not available everywhere. Call 1-800-MEDICARE or your…

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Medicare

…to help pay for medical expenses, such as deductibles, premiums, copayments, and coinsurances. If you use the account for qualified medical expenses, its funds will continue to be tax-free. Whether…

Tips for preventing fraud

…medically necessary (mud treatments, Swedish massages, and dance classes are examples of services promised in past fraud cases). Use your best judgment and refer to Medicare’s coverage rules as needed….

Hospitals and health facilities that may offer care at a reduced cost

…insurance (like Medicare or Medicaid) are not eligible for Hill-Burton coverage. The Hill-Burton program will not cover Medicare cost-sharing. However, it will cover Medicaid copayments, except long-term care facility care,…

Glossary of programs that help pay Medicare costs for people with limited incomes

…For more information, contact your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). Programs that provide assistance with prescription drug costs: Extra Help: Also known as the Part D Low-Income Subsidy (LIS),…

Making Part B enrollment decisions with VA benefits

…your care, you must receive care at a Medicare-certified facility that works with your Medicare coverage. VA benefits will not pay for Medicare cost-sharing (deductibles, copayments, coinsurances). Note: If the…

VA benefits basics

…care Durable medical equipment (DME) Medicare-excluded items (including over-the-counter medications and supplies, annual physical exams, hearing aids, and eyeglasses under certain circumstances) Eligibility for VA benefits depends on several factors,…

TRICARE for Life (TFL) basics

…Life (TFL), a program for Medicare-eligible military retirees and their dependents, acts as a supplement to Medicare. TFL typically covers your Medicare cost-sharing (deductibles, coinsurances, and copayments). TFL may pay…