Hey Medicare Nation! We're smack in the middle of a Corona Virus Pandemic! <a href="http://www.TheMedicareNation.com">The Medicare Nation</a> I wanted to give you an episode that is full of USEFULL information. I know you've been hammered by the news, internet and newspapers about the Corona Virus. Let's start with a very important fact: Human coronaviruses were first identified in the mid-1960s. The 1960's people! the coronavirus gets its name from a distinctive corona or in a scientists world…a “Crown of Sugary Proteins,” that projects from the surface of the virus. There are four main types of Human Corona Viruses <ol> <li>Alphacoronavirus, </li> <li>Betacoronavirus, </li> <li>Gammacoronavirus, and </li> <li>Deltacoronavirus.</li> </ol> The first two only infect mammals, including bats, pigs, cats, and humans.   Gammacoronavirus mostly infects birds such as poultry (chickens) and Deltacoronavirus can infect both birds and mammals. Do you recognize the Virus named SARS? <h2>Severe acute respiratory syndrome abbreviated as ….</h2> <h2>(<a href= "https://www.who.int/ith/diseases/sars/en/">SARS-CoV</a>)</h2> SARS-CoV (the beta coronavirus.  Guess what it causes?  It causes severe… acute…..respiratory syndrome, SARS was first recognized as a distinct strain of coronavirus in 2002. The source of the virus has never been clear, though the first human infections can be traced back to the Chinese province of Guangdong in November of 2002. The virus then became a pandemic, causing more than 8,000 infections of an influenza-like disease in 26 countries with close to 800 deaths. In the United States, only eight persons were laboratory-confirmed as SARS cases. There were NO  SARS-related deaths in the United States. All of the eight persons with laboratory-confirmed SARS had traveled to areas where SARS-CoV transmission was occurring. By July of 2003….. the World Health Organization declared the outbreak over. On February 11, 2020 the World Health Organization announced an official name for the disease that is causing the 2019 novel coronavirus outbreak, first identified in Wuhan China. The new name of this disease is….SARS-COV-2 aka coronavirus disease 2019, abbreviated as COVID-19.  ‘CO’ stands for ‘corona,’ ‘VI’ for ‘virus,’ and ‘D’ for disease. <a href="http://www.TheMedicareNation.com">The Medicare Nation</a> COVID-19 is a new disease, caused by a novel (or new) “coronavirus” or strain of “Corona Virus” that has not previously been seen in humans. What are the Symptoms of COVID-19?  The CDC (Centers of Disease Control) have listed these as the most common symptoms of COVID-19: <ul> <li>Fever</li> <li>Cough</li> <li>Shortness of breath</li> </ul> Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure. Reported illnesses have ranged from mild symptoms….like a dry cough…. to severe illness, with high fever and shortness of breath, requiring hospitalization and there have been deaths reported for confirmed coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases.   Currently……according to the WHO… as of March 13th….there are over 132, 758 reported cases of    COVID-19 …. Worldwide. Of those cases….. there are 4,955 Deaths worldwide. Over 80% of the reported cases are recovering. In the U.S…… there are currently 1,629 reported cases…… in 47 of the 50 States. No reported cases yet….in Idaho, Alabama and West Virginia. There have been 41 Deaths reported in the U.S. ….. with 37 Deaths coming from the State of Washington. The deaths mainly being reported from a nursing facility, with those being elderly and having underlying medical conditions prior to contracting the CoronaVirus. What do we mean by Underlying medical conditions????  If you have a blood disorder.... like sickle cell disease... or ... you have chronic kidney disease.... you're currently receiving chemotherapy or radiation. You may have congestive heart failure or coronary artery disease. You may have chronic asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or you may need oxygen at home. All of these conditions..... as well as many more..... may raise your risk of contracting COVID-19. You may NOT contract the virus. Just be more cognizant of your surroundings and who you are in contact with. What do you do if you believe you have symptoms of the COVID-19? <ol> <li>NUMBER 1…. Call your Primary Doctor. Speak with the Nurse or Physician’s Assistant. Tell them your symptoms and they will advise you of what to do.</li> </ol>  IF You CANT get Through to your Doctor……. <ol start="2"> <li>If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan…… the Plan most likely has a 24 hr. Nurse’s Line.  CALL THEM!!  Tell the nurse  your symptoms. They will advise you.</li> </ol> <ol start="3"> <li>Call your STATE Health Department for Advise. Each State has an information line dedicated to the COVID-19 Crisis and will be able to assist you with answering question.</li> </ol> <ol start="4"> <li>If you have any severe symptoms….. as in Difficulty Breathing, fluid in your lungs, High fever of over 104 degrees…. CALL 911!</li> </ol>   If you do have symptoms, and your doctor wants you to have the test to confirm COVID-19…. Where do you go?? According to the FDA….. here is the current list of laboratories across the U.S. that will be offering testing for the COVID-19 very soon  Advent Health Laboratories  Lab Corp Quest Laboratories As well as many other public health, university and private labs will be available on the FDA list of laboratories to test for the COVID-19. Medicare IS Covering the Test for COVID-19 as a Preventative Diagnostic Test….and therefore ….. you will have NO COPAY when you take the test. There are currently  TWO Testing Codes for the COVID-19 Test <ol> <li>Is for having the Test at a Public Health Lab ( your local community Health Department) which is U0001</li> <li>The 2nd is for having the test at a commercial or private lab (like Lab Corp) which is U0002.</li> </ol>   If you are diagnosed with COVID-19, self-quarantine yourself in your home, away from your family members and pets, until you have tested negative. We ALL need to SELF-Police ourselves and HELP STOP the Spread of COVID-19….. so we can curtail the spread and help stop the pandemic.  Remember to Drink lots of fluids….. eat plenty of chicken soup and crackers ….. and get lots of REST!! <a href="http://www.TheMedicareNation.com">The Medicare Nation</a> You can go to the Center for Disease Control website for daily updates on the Corona Virus 19 situation ….. go to….. <a href="http://www.CDC.gov">www.CDC.gov</a>   You can also go to the World Health Organization website…. Go to …. <a href= "http://www.who.int">www.who.int</a>   AND…. PLEASE go to your STATE”S Health Department website for local information by “Googling” your State.  That’s all for today Nation. Call your Parents….. Make sure they’re ok and help them subscribe to Medicare Nation…. So they can hear this episode as well as over 100 other episodes about Medicare and it’s Resources. Thank you for listening to Medicare Nation! If you are part of my “Sandwich Generation,” Share this show with your parents and/or grandparents. They have many questions about Medicare and this show will answer them! Buy them a “Smart Phone,” and introduce them to Medicare Nation! If you are a Baby Boomer, share Medicare Nation with other “Baby Boomers.” I want to educate as many of you as I can about Medicare! I certainly can use  your help in putting the word out! If you have any questions, send them to <a href= "mailto:Support@TheMedicareNation.com">Support@TheMedicareNation.com</a> If I can answer it in one email - I will personally answer you! If your question requires research or additional contact with you, I do offer consulting if you would like me to assist you in that manner. Want to hear a topic on Medicare Nation? A special guest? Let me know and I'll do my best to get them on the show! Thanks again for listening!

Hey Medicare Nation! We're smack in the middle of a Corona Virus Pandemic! The Medicare Nation I wanted to give you an episode that is full of USEFULL information. I know you've been hammered by the news, internet and newspapers about the Corona Virus. Let's start with a very important fact: Human coronaviruses were first identified in the mid-1960s. The 1960's people! the coronavirus gets its name from a distinctive corona or in a scientists world…a “Crown of Sugary Proteins,” that projects from the surface of the virus. There are four main types of Human Corona Viruses Alphacoronavirus,  Betacoronavirus,  Gammacoronavirus, and  Deltacoronavirus. The first two only infect mammals, including bats, pigs, cats, and humans.   Gammacoronavirus mostly infects birds such as poultry (chickens) and Deltacoronavirus can infect both birds and mammals. Do you recognize the Virus named SARS? Severe acute respiratory syndrome abbreviated as …. (SARS-CoV) SARS-CoV (the beta coronavirus.  Guess what it causes?  It causes severe… acute…..respiratory syndrome, SARS was first recognized as a distinct strain of coronavirus in 2002. The source of the virus has never been clear, though the first human infections can be traced back to the Chinese province of Guangdong in November of 2002. The virus then became a pandemic, causing more than 8,000 infections of an influenza-like disease in 26 countries with close to 800 deaths. In the United States, only eight persons were laboratory-confirmed as SARS cases. There were NO  SARS-related deaths in the United States. All of the eight persons with laboratory-confirmed SARS had traveled to areas where SARS-CoV transmission was occurring. By July of 2003….. the World Health Organization declared the outbreak over. On February 11, 2020 the World Health Organization announced an official name for the disease that is causing the 2019 novel coronavirus outbreak, first identified in Wuhan China. The new name of this disease is….SARS-COV-2 aka coronavirus disease 2019, abbreviated as COVID-19.  ‘CO’ stands for ‘corona,’ ‘VI’ for ‘virus,’ and ‘D’ for disease. The Medicare Nation COVID-19 is a new disease, caused by a novel (or new) “coronavirus” or strain of “Corona Virus” that has not previously been seen in humans. What are the Symptoms of COVID-19?  The CDC (Centers of Disease Control) have listed these as the most common symptoms of COVID-19: Fever Cough Shortness of breath Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure. Reported illnesses have ranged from mild symptoms….like a dry cough…. to severe illness, with high fever and shortness of breath, requiring hospitalization and there have been deaths reported for confirmed coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases.   Currently……according to the WHO… as of March 13th….there are over 132, 758 reported cases of    COVID-19 …. Worldwide. Of those cases….. there are 4,955 Deaths worldwide. Over 80% of the reported cases are recovering. In the U.S…… there are currently 1,629 reported cases…… in 47 of the 50 States. No reported cases yet….in Idaho, Alabama and West Virginia. There have been 41 Deaths reported in the U.S. ….. with 37 Deaths coming from the State of Washington. The deaths mainly being reported from a nursing facility, with those being elderly and having underlying medical conditions prior to contracting the CoronaVirus. What do we mean by Underlying medical conditions????  If you have a blood disorder.... like sickle cell disease... or ... you have chronic kidney disease.... you're currently receiving chemotherapy or radiation. You may have congestive heart failure or coronary artery disease. You may have chronic asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or you may need oxygen at home. All of these conditions..... as well as many more..... may raise your risk of contracting COVID-19. You may NOT contract the virus. Just be more cognizant of your surroundings and who you are in contact with. What do you do if you believe you have symptoms of the COVID-19? NUMBER 1…. Call your Primary Doctor. Speak with the Nurse or Physician’s Assistant. Tell them your symptoms and they will advise you of what to do.  IF You CANT get Through to your Doctor……. If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan…… the Plan most likely has a 24 hr. Nurse’s Line.  CALL THEM!!  Tell the nurse  your symptoms. They will advise you. Call your STATE Health Department for Advise. Each State has an information line dedicated to the COVID-19 Crisis and will be able to assist you with answering question. If you have any severe symptoms….. as in Difficulty Breathing, fluid in your lungs, High fever of over 104 degrees…. CALL 911!   If you do have symptoms, and your doctor wants you to have the test to confirm COVID-19…. Where do you go?? According to the FDA….. here is the current list of laboratories across the U.S. that will be offering testing for the COVID-19 very soon  Advent Health Laboratories  Lab Corp Quest Laboratories As well as many other public health, university and private labs will be available on the FDA list of laboratories to test for the COVID-19. Medicare IS Covering the Test for COVID-19 as a Preventative Diagnostic Test….and therefore ….. you will have NO COPAY when you take the test. There are currently  TWO Testing Codes for the COVID-19 Test Is for having the Test at a Public Health Lab ( your local community Health Department) which is U0001 The 2nd is for having the test at a commercial or private lab (like Lab Corp) which is U0002.   If you are diagnosed with COVID-19, self-quarantine yourself in your home, away from your family members and pets, until you have tested negative. We ALL need to SELF-Police ourselves and HELP STOP the Spread of COVID-19….. so we can curtail the spread and help stop the pandemic.  Remember to Drink lots of fluids….. eat plenty of chicken soup and crackers ….. and get lots of REST!! The Medicare Nation You can go to the Center for Disease Control website for daily updates on the Corona Virus 19 situation ….. go to….. www.CDC.gov   You can also go to the World Health Organization website…. Go to …. www.who.int   AND…. PLEASE go to your STATE”S Health Department website for local information by “Googling” your State.  That’s all for today Nation. Call your Parents….. Make sure they’re ok and help them subscribe to Medicare Nation…. So they can hear this episode as well as over 100 other episodes about Medicare and it’s Resources. Thank you for listening to Medicare Nation! If you are part of my “Sandwich Generation,” Share this show with your parents and/or grandparents. They have many questions about Medicare and this show will answer them! Buy them a “Smart Phone,” and introduce them to Medicare Nation! If you are a Baby Boomer, share Medicare Nation with other “Baby Boomers.” I want to educate as many of you as I can about Medicare! I certainly can use  your help in putting the word out! If you have any questions, send them to Support@TheMedicareNation.com If I can answer it in one email - I will personally answer you! If your question requires research or additional contact with you, I do offer consulting if you would like me to assist you in that manner. Want to hear a topic on Medicare Nation? A special guest? Let me know and I'll do my best to get them on the show! Thanks again for listening!      

Medicare Nation

Where Do I Go To Get Tested For The Corona Virus?

Hey Medicare Nation! <a href= "http://www.TheMedicareNation.com">www.TheMedicareNation.com</a> It's still January...but February is right around the corner. Spring WILL come. I promise! Let me give you some good news! Medicare is now covering Acupuncture! As of January 21, 2020, The Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), will cover acupuncture for "Chronic Low Back Pain." Let's look at the coverage in the Medicare National Coverage Determination Manual. Section 1862(a)(1)(A) of the Social Security Act  Up to "12" visits in 90 days are covered for Medicare Beneficiaries under the following circumstances: a. Chronic Low Back Pain which lasts "12 weeks or longer," b. the Chronic Low Back Pain is "non-specific," in that it has NO identifiable systemic cause (NOT associated with metastatic, inflammatory, infectious, disease). c. the Chronic Low Back Pain is NOT associated with surgery d. the Chronic Low Back Pain is NOT associated with pregnancy. An ADDITIONAL "Eight" (8) sessions WILL be covered for those patients demonstrating an improvement. No more than "20" acupuncture treatments may be administered annually. Treatment MUST be discontinued if the patient is NOT improving or is regressing. The Acupuncture must be Administered under the supervision of a doctor of medicine or osteopathy. Need more information?  Check out our website <a href= "http://www.TheMedicareNation.com">www.TheMedicareNation.com</a> What plans cover Acupuncture? Acupuncture for Chronic Low Back Pain, will be covered under ORIGINAL Medicare.  If you present your Medicare ID Card to providers as your Health Insurance..... You may start utilizing this treatment now. If you present your Medicare ID Card, as well as a Medi-Gap (Medicare Supplement) Plan..... You may start utilizing this treatment now. If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan, you need to check your Summary of Benefits Book under your plan, to see if they cover Acupuncture. If you can't find it.... call the customer service number on the back of your ID Card and ask the representative. Acupuncture is NOT covered under Medicare Part D. Part D is ONLY for Prescription Drug Coverage. If you have any questions.... send them to <a href= "mailto:Support@TheMedicareNation.com">Support@TheMedicareNation.com</a>   Thank you for listening to Medicare Nation! If you are part of my “Sandwich Generation,” Share this show with your parents and/or grandparents. They have many questions about Medicare and this show will answer them! Buy them a “Smart Phone,” and introduce them to Medicare Nation! If you are a Baby Boomer, share Medicare Nation with other “Baby Boomers.” I want to educate as many of you as I can about Medicare! I certainly can use  your help in putting the word out! If you have any questions, send them to <a href= "mailto:Support@TheMedicareNation.com">Support@TheMedicareNation.com</a> If I can answer it in one email - I will personally answer you! If your question requires research or additional contact with you, I do offer consulting if you would like me to assist you in that manner. Want to hear a topic on Medicare Nation? A special guest? Let me know and I'll do my best to get them on the show! Thanks again for listening! Diane Daniels                                                                            Medicare Consultant <a href= "mailto:Support@TheMedicareNation.com">Support@TheMedicareNation.com</a>

Hey Medicare Nation! www.TheMedicareNation.com It's still January...but February is right around the corner. Spring WILL come. I promise! Let me give you some good news! Medicare is now covering Acupuncture! As of January 21, 2020, The Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), will cover acupuncture for "Chronic Low Back Pain." Let's look at the coverage in the Medicare National Coverage Determination Manual. Section 1862(a)(1)(A) of the Social Security Act  Up to "12" visits in 90 days are covered for Medicare Beneficiaries under the following circumstances: a. Chronic Low Back Pain which lasts "12 weeks or longer," b. the Chronic Low Back Pain is "non-specific," in that it has NO identifiable systemic cause (NOT associated with metastatic, inflammatory, infectious, disease). c. the Chronic Low Back Pain is NOT associated with surgery d. the Chronic Low Back Pain is NOT associated with pregnancy. An ADDITIONAL "Eight" (8) sessions WILL be covered for those patients demonstrating an improvement. No more than "20" acupuncture treatments may be administered annually. Treatment MUST be discontinued if the patient is NOT improving or is regressing. The Acupuncture must be Administered under the supervision of a doctor of medicine or osteopathy. Need more information?  Check out our website www.TheMedicareNation.com What plans cover Acupuncture? Acupuncture for Chronic Low Back Pain, will be covered under ORIGINAL Medicare.  If you present your Medicare ID Card to providers as your Health Insurance..... You may start utilizing this treatment now. If you present your Medicare ID Card, as well as a Medi-Gap (Medicare Supplement) Plan..... You may start utilizing this treatment now. If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan, you need to check your Summary of Benefits Book under your plan, to see if they cover Acupuncture. If you can't find it.... call the customer service number on the back of your ID Card and ask the representative. Acupuncture is NOT covered under Medicare Part D. Part D is ONLY for Prescription Drug Coverage. If you have any questions.... send them to Support@TheMedicareNation.com   Thank you for listening to Medicare Nation! If you are part of my “Sandwich Generation,” Share this show with your parents and/or grandparents. They have many questions about Medicare and this show will answer them! Buy them a “Smart Phone,” and introduce them to Medicare Nation! If you are a Baby Boomer, share Medicare Nation with other “Baby Boomers.” I want to educate as many of you as I can about Medicare! I certainly can use  your help in putting the word out! If you have any questions, send them to Support@TheMedicareNation.com If I can answer it in one email - I will personally answer you! If your question requires research or additional contact with you, I do offer consulting if you would like me to assist you in that manner. Want to hear a topic on Medicare Nation? A special guest? Let me know and I'll do my best to get them on the show! Thanks again for listening! Diane Daniels                                                                            Medicare Consultant Support@TheMedicareNation.com    

Medicare NOW Covers Acupuncture

Hey Medicare Nation! <a href= "http://www.TheMedicareNation.com">www.TheMedicareNation.com</a> It's 2020!  Love the sound of that! Right now...... the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period is in full swing. If you are on a "Medicare Advantage Plan," you have the opportunity to make a ONE TIME change, between January 1st through March 31st. You can change from one Medicare Advantage Plan to another Medicare Advantage Plan. You can "disenroll" from the Medicare Advantage Plan you're on and go back onto "Original Medicare." With Original Medicare, you can add a stand-alone-prescription drug plan and ..... you can enroll into a Medicare Supplement Plan (aka Medi-gap) to help defray the costs of Original Medicare. Here are options you can do during the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period:  <div class= "clearfix text-formatted field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"> <ul> <li>Change from a Medicare Advantage Plan back to Original Medicare.</li> <li>Switch from one Medicare Advantage Plan to another Medicare Advantage Plan.</li> <li>Switch from a Medicare Advantage Plan that doesn't offer drug coverage to a Medicare Advantage Plan that offers drug coverage.</li> <li>Switch from a Medicare Advantage Plan that offers drug coverage to a Medicare Advantage Plan that doesn't offer drug coverage.</li> <li>Join a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan.</li> <li>Switch from one Medicare drug plan to another Medicare drug plan.</li> <li>Drop your Medicare prescription drug coverage completely</li> </ul> </div>   I'm adding the EXACT language from the Medicare Managed Manual, regarding the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period. 30.5 – Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (MA OEP) 42 CFR 422.62(a)(3) (Rev. 1, Issued: July 31, 2018; Effective/Implementation: 01-01-2019) During the MA OEP, MA plan enrollees may enroll in another MA plan or disenroll from their MA plan and return to Original Medicare. Individuals may make only one election during the MA OEP. This chart outlines who can use the MA OEP and when: Who can use the MA OEP: MA OEP occurs: Individuals enrolled in MA plans as of January 1 – March 31 New Medicare beneficiaries who are enrolled in an MA plan during their ICEP The month of entitlement to Part A and Part B – the last day of the 3rd month of entitlement Individuals may add or drop Part D coverage during the MA OEP. Individuals enrolled in either MAPD or MA-only plans can switch to: • MA-PD • MA-only • Original Medicare (with or without a stand-alone Part D plan) The effective date for an MA OEP election is the first of the month following receipt of the enrollment request. NOTE: The MA OEP does not provide an opportunity for an individual enrolled in Original Medicare to join a MA plan. It also does not allow for Part D changes for individuals enrolled in Original Medicare, including those enrolled in stand-alone Part D plans. The MA OEP is not available for those enrolled in Medicare Savings Accounts or other Medicare health plan types (such as cost plans or PACE). You may also go onto Medicare.gov to view information on the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period. If you decide to make a change during the MA OEP, you will be "locked-in" to the new plan, until the next enrollment period.... which is....the Annual Enrollment Period, from October 15th through December 7th. You may also make a change to your plan if you have a "special circumstance." These are listed under the "Special Election Periods" for Medicare on Medicare.gov You can also LISTEN to my previous show on Special Election Periods..... Episode 051, which was published on July 29, 2016. The episode is titled..... "Special Election Period Q & A" I go into detail about the Special Elections available. <a href= "http://www.TheMedicareNation.com">www.TheMedicareNation.com</a> Remember Medicare Nation listeners........ an "Insurance Agent," is NOT allowed to "solicit" you during the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period.  There are strict Medicare regulations regarding this. YOU must make the first move in contacting or telling your "Agent" or Medicare Specialist, that you are unhappy with your current plan. No one should be calling you, texting you, emailing you ..... or worse...... knocking on your door, telling you about the Open Enrollment Period. If someone does...... tell them to "Take a Hike!" You don't need a dishonest person like that helping you with your Medicare needs! If you need help finding a new plan during the OEP, contact you're Medicare Advisor. If you are all set with your Medicare Advantage Plan for 2020, You don't need to do anything! Just enjoy your family, friends and activities!    Thank you for listening to Medicare Nation! If you are part of my “Sandwich Generation,” Share this show with your parents and/or grandparents. They have many questions about Medicare and this show will answer them! Buy them a “Smart Phone,” and introduce them to Medicare Nation! If you are a Baby Boomer, share Medicare Nation with other “Baby Boomers.” I want to educate as many of you as I can about Medicare! I certainly can use  your help in putting the word out! If you have any questions, send them to <a href= "mailto:Support@TheMedicareNation.com">Support@TheMedicareNation.com</a> If I can answer it in one email - I will personally answer you! If your question requires research or additional contact with you, I do offer consulting if you would like me to assist you in that manner. Contact me on my website - <a href= "http://www.TheMedicareNation.com">www.TheMedicareNation.com</a> Want to hear a topic on Medicare Nation? A special guest? Let me know and I'll do my best to get them on the show! Thanks again for listening! Diane Daniels                                                                          Medicare Consultant                                                                  Medicare Nation LLC.

Hey Medicare Nation! www.TheMedicareNation.com It's 2020!  Love the sound of that! Right now...... the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period is in full swing. If you are on a "Medicare Advantage Plan," you have the opportunity to make a ONE TIME change, between January 1st through March 31st. You can change from one Medicare Advantage Plan to another Medicare Advantage Plan. You can "disenroll" from the Medicare Advantage Plan you're on and go back onto "Original Medicare." With Original Medicare, you can add a stand-alone-prescription drug plan and ..... you can enroll into a Medicare Supplement Plan (aka Medi-gap) to help defray the costs of Original Medicare. Here are options you can do during the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period:  Change from a Medicare Advantage Plan back to Original Medicare. Switch from one Medicare Advantage Plan to another Medicare Advantage Plan. Switch from a Medicare Advantage Plan that doesn't offer drug coverage to a Medicare Advantage Plan that offers drug coverage. Switch from a Medicare Advantage Plan that offers drug coverage to a Medicare Advantage Plan that doesn't offer drug coverage. Join a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan. Switch from one Medicare drug plan to another Medicare drug plan. Drop your Medicare prescription drug coverage completely   I'm adding the EXACT language from the Medicare Managed Manual, regarding the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period. 30.5 – Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (MA OEP) 42 CFR 422.62(a)(3) (Rev. 1, Issued: July 31, 2018; Effective/Implementation: 01-01-2019) During the MA OEP, MA plan enrollees may enroll in another MA plan or disenroll from their MA plan and return to Original Medicare. Individuals may make only one election during the MA OEP. This chart outlines who can use the MA OEP and when: Who can use the MA OEP: MA OEP occurs: Individuals enrolled in MA plans as of January 1 – March 31 New Medicare beneficiaries who are enrolled in an MA plan during their ICEP The month of entitlement to Part A and Part B – the last day of the 3rd month of entitlement Individuals may add or drop Part D coverage during the MA OEP. Individuals enrolled in either MAPD or MA-only plans can switch to: • MA-PD • MA-only • Original Medicare (with or without a stand-alone Part D plan) The effective date for an MA OEP election is the first of the month following receipt of the enrollment request. NOTE: The MA OEP does not provide an opportunity for an individual enrolled in Original Medicare to join a MA plan. It also does not allow for Part D changes for individuals enrolled in Original Medicare, including those enrolled in stand-alone Part D plans. The MA OEP is not available for those enrolled in Medicare Savings Accounts or other Medicare health plan types (such as cost plans or PACE). You may also go onto Medicare.gov to view information on the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period. If you decide to make a change during the MA OEP, you will be "locked-in" to the new plan, until the next enrollment period.... which is....the Annual Enrollment Period, from October 15th through December 7th. You may also make a change to your plan if you have a "special circumstance." These are listed under the "Special Election Periods" for Medicare on Medicare.gov You can also LISTEN to my previous show on Special Election Periods..... Episode 051, which was published on July 29, 2016. The episode is titled..... "Special Election Period Q & A" I go into detail about the Special Elections available. www.TheMedicareNation.com Remember Medicare Nation listeners........ an "Insurance Agent," is NOT allowed to "solicit" you during the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period.  There are strict Medicare regulations regarding this. YOU must make the first move in contacting or telling your "Agent" or Medicare Specialist, that you are unhappy with your current plan. No one should be calling you, texting you, emailing you ..... or worse...... knocking on your door, telling you about the Open Enrollment Period. If someone does...... tell them to "Take a Hike!" You don't need a dishonest person like that helping you with your Medicare needs! If you need help finding a new plan during the OEP, contact you're Medicare Advisor. If you are all set with your Medicare Advantage Plan for 2020, You don't need to do anything! Just enjoy your family, friends and activities!    Thank you for listening to Medicare Nation! If you are part of my “Sandwich Generation,” Share this show with your parents and/or grandparents. They have many questions about Medicare and this show will answer them! Buy them a “Smart Phone,” and introduce them to Medicare Nation! If you are a Baby Boomer, share Medicare Nation with other “Baby Boomers.” I want to educate as many of you as I can about Medicare! I certainly can use  your help in putting the word out! If you have any questions, send them to Support@TheMedicareNation.com If I can answer it in one email - I will personally answer you! If your question requires research or additional contact with you, I do offer consulting if you would like me to assist you in that manner. Contact me on my website - www.TheMedicareNation.com Want to hear a topic on Medicare Nation? A special guest? Let me know and I'll do my best to get them on the show! Thanks again for listening! Diane Daniels                                                                          Medicare Consultant                                                                  Medicare Nation LLC.

Unhappy With Your Medicare Advantage Plan? Change it Now!

Hey Medicare Nation! CMS just announced the 2020 Medicare Part B Premium increase! CMS also announced 2020 Part A Deductible and co-pays, as well as the Part B annual deductible. Here's a look at what's changing in 2020: <table style="height: 1080px;" width="467"> <tbody> <tr> <td style="width: 451.761px;"> Medicare premiums, deductibles, and co-payment amounts are adjusted each year in accordance with the Soc Sec Act.      SOCIAL SECURITY   Increase:    1.6%  (Avg $24 more a month)   Average Monthly SS Check $1,503.00       2020 - PART A DEDUCTIBLE AND COINSURANCE   Inpatient Hospital Deductible:                       $1408.00 Daily Coinsurance Days 61-90:                    $  352.00 Daily Coinsurance-Lifetime Reserve:           $  704.00 Skilled Nursing Facility-Days 21-100:           $  176.00       2020 - PART B PREMIUM AND ANNUAL DEDUCTIBLE   Standard Monthly Premium:                 $ 144.60  ($9.00 More) Annual Deductible:                                $ 198.00   It's a great time to review your plan for 2020. Is it the right plan to fit your unique needs? If so........ keep it! If not....... change it! I am available to assist you with your Medicare Plan choices for 2020. If I can answer your email in one paragraph or less, I WILL answer your question for you! If the answer to your question requires any research or my response is longer than one paragraph..... I will let you know that you will need to hire me to answer that question. If you live outside of Florida, you can hire me as your consultant at a rate of $200.00 an hour ( The hourly rate is going up to $250.00 an hour, starting January 1 2020). If you are a Florida resident, I can assist you in enrolling into the plan that fit's your unique needs at no additional charge. I will receive a commission from the insurance carrier once you are enrolled. The commission is regulated by Medicare. The Annual Enrollment Period ends December 7th, so make sure you do your "due dilligence" and find the plan that works for you! Until next time..... Have a Happy, peaceful & prosperous week! Diane Daniels Medicare Consultant 855-855-7266 </td> </tr> </tbody> </table>

Hey Medicare Nation! CMS just announced the 2020 Medicare Part B Premium increase! CMS also announced 2020 Part A Deductible and co-pays, as well as the Part B annual deductible. Here's a look at what's changing in 2020: Medicare premiums, deductibles, and co-payment amounts are adjusted each year in accordance with the Soc Sec Act.      SOCIAL SECURITY   Increase:    1.6%  (Avg $24 more a month)   Average Monthly SS Check $1,503.00       2020 - PART A DEDUCTIBLE AND COINSURANCE   Inpatient Hospital Deductible:                       $1408.00 Daily Coinsurance Days 61-90:                    $  352.00 Daily Coinsurance-Lifetime Reserve:           $  704.00 Skilled Nursing Facility-Days 21-100:           $  176.00       2020 - PART B PREMIUM AND ANNUAL DEDUCTIBLE   Standard Monthly Premium:                 $ 144.60  ($9.00 More) Annual Deductible:                                $ 198.00   It's a great time to review your plan for 2020. Is it the right plan to fit your unique needs? If so........ keep it! If not....... change it! I am available to assist you with your Medicare Plan choices for 2020. If I can answer your email in one paragraph or less, I WILL answer your question for you! If the answer to your question requires any research or my response is longer than one paragraph..... I will let you know that you will need to hire me to answer that question. If you live outside of Florida, you can hire me as your consultant at a rate of $200.00 an hour ( The hourly rate is going up to $250.00 an hour, starting January 1 2020). If you are a Florida resident, I can assist you in enrolling into the plan that fit's your unique needs at no additional charge. I will receive a commission from the insurance carrier once you are enrolled. The commission is regulated by Medicare. The Annual Enrollment Period ends December 7th, so make sure you do your "due dilligence" and find the plan that works for you! Until next time..... Have a Happy, peaceful & prosperous week! Diane Daniels Medicare Consultant 855-855-7266 

2020 Medicare Changes Announced!

Hey Medicare Nation! <a href= "http://www.TheMedicareNation.com">www.TheMedicareNation.com</a> It's October! That means it's Medicare Time! The Annual Enrollment Period is just around the corner. Did you receive your "Annual Notice of Changes (ANOC)" for your Medicare Advantage Plan or Prescription Drug Plan? If not....contact your plan and request the ANOC. Today......I want to talk with you about Part D Prescription Drug Coverage for 2020! Medicare has set the maximum Part D Deductible for 2020 at $435.00. Medicare Advantage Plans and Stand-Alone Prescription Drug Plans have the option to charge the maximum deductible amount of $435.00...... or....... They can eliminate the Deductible altogether.... or...... They can charge an amount in between. You MUST do your "Due Dilligence" in determining which Prescription Drug Plan will fit your unique needs for 2020. Contact your Medicare Specialist and request their assistance in finding a Prescription Drug Plan for 2020. If you have a question about Medicare or your Prescription Drug Plan.... You can send me an email to <a href= "mailto:Support@TheMedicareNation.com">Support@TheMedicareNation.com</a> If I can answer your question in ONE Paragraph, I will answer your question! If I cannot ...... I will request you hire me as your consultant. I currently charge $199.00 an hour for my consultation services.  I always do my best to answer your questions in ONE paragraph. The "initial coverage period (ICP)" for Part D, has a threshold of $4,020.00 When you hand in a prescription, the total amount of the prescription is applied towards the ICP. If you have a Deductible, that is applied towards the ICP too. When the total amount of your prescriptions reaches $4,020.00..... you will now enter a new phase called the "coverage gap." In this stage.... you will now pay 25% of generic drugs.... and you will pay 25% of brand name drugs. If you reach $5,018.75 you will enter the next stage, which is called.... The "Catastrophic Stage." In the Catastrophic Stage, you will now pay a 5% co-insurance or $3.60 for Generic Drugs..... or.... $8.95 for Brand or non-preferred Drugs.... which ever is a greater amount. You will remain in the Catastrophic Stage until your out-of-pocket spending reaches $6,350 or..... when the ball drops on New Year's Eve! I know prescription drugs can be very expensive! There are programs available for those of you with lower incomes. The program is called "Extra Help," or "Low Income Subsidy." To apply for Extra Help, go to the social security website - <a href= "http://www.socialsecurity.gov/extrahelp">www.socialsecurity.gov/extrahelp</a> If your individual income is less than $1,562 a month, you would qualify for the LIS program. If your income is more than $1,562 a month, but is less than $1,900 a month....APPLY! You have nothing to lose! All they can say is No! You can also appy for the "Medicare Savings Program" If you qualify, CMS will pay for your Medicare Part B Premium. Depending on your qualifications, CMS may pay your premium, deductible and co-insurance. Apply for the Medicare Savings Program here: <a href= "https://www.medicare.gov/Contacts/#resources/msps">https://www.medicare.gov/Contacts/#resources/msps</a> Thank you for listening to Medicare Nation! If you are part of my “Sandwich Generation,” Share this show with your parents and/or grandparents. They have many questions about Medicare and this show will answer them! Buy them a “Smart Phone,” and introduce them to Medicare Nation! If you are a Baby Boomer, share Medicare Nation with other “Baby Boomers.” I want to educate as many of you as I can about Medicare! I certainly can use  your help in putting the word out! If you have any questions, send them to <a href= "mailto:Support@TheMedicareNation.com">Support@TheMedicareNation.com</a> If I can answer it in one email - I will personally answer you! If your question requires research or additional contact with you, I do offer consulting if you would like me to assist you in that manner. Want to hear a topic on Medicare Nation? A special guest? Let me know and I'll do my best to get them on the show! Thanks again for listening! Diane Daniels

Hey Medicare Nation! www.TheMedicareNation.com It's October! That means it's Medicare Time! The Annual Enrollment Period is just around the corner. Did you receive your "Annual Notice of Changes (ANOC)" for your Medicare Advantage Plan or Prescription Drug Plan? If not....contact your plan and request the ANOC. Today......I want to talk with you about Part D Prescription Drug Coverage for 2020! Medicare has set the maximum Part D Deductible for 2020 at $435.00. Medicare Advantage Plans and Stand-Alone Prescription Drug Plans have the option to charge the maximum deductible amount of $435.00...... or....... They can eliminate the Deductible altogether.... or...... They can charge an amount in between. You MUST do your "Due Dilligence" in determining which Prescription Drug Plan will fit your unique needs for 2020. Contact your Medicare Specialist and request their assistance in finding a Prescription Drug Plan for 2020. If you have a question about Medicare or your Prescription Drug Plan.... You can send me an email to Support@TheMedicareNation.com If I can answer your question in ONE Paragraph, I will answer your question! If I cannot ...... I will request you hire me as your consultant. I currently charge $199.00 an hour for my consultation services.  I always do my best to answer your questions in ONE paragraph. The "initial coverage period (ICP)" for Part D, has a threshold of $4,020.00 When you hand in a prescription, the total amount of the prescription is applied towards the ICP. If you have a Deductible, that is applied towards the ICP too. When the total amount of your prescriptions reaches $4,020.00..... you will now enter a new phase called the "coverage gap." In this stage.... you will now pay 25% of generic drugs.... and you will pay 25% of brand name drugs. If you reach $5,018.75 you will enter the next stage, which is called.... The "Catastrophic Stage." In the Catastrophic Stage, you will now pay a 5% co-insurance or $3.60 for Generic Drugs..... or.... $8.95 for Brand or non-preferred Drugs.... which ever is a greater amount. You will remain in the Catastrophic Stage until your out-of-pocket spending reaches $6,350 or..... when the ball drops on New Year's Eve! I know prescription drugs can be very expensive! There are programs available for those of you with lower incomes. The program is called "Extra Help," or "Low Income Subsidy." To apply for Extra Help, go to the social security website - www.socialsecurity.gov/extrahelp If your individual income is less than $1,562 a month, you would qualify for the LIS program. If your income is more than $1,562 a month, but is less than $1,900 a month....APPLY! You have nothing to lose! All they can say is No! You can also appy for the "Medicare Savings Program" If you qualify, CMS will pay for your Medicare Part B Premium. Depending on your qualifications, CMS may pay your premium, deductible and co-insurance. Apply for the Medicare Savings Program here: https://www.medicare.gov/Contacts/#resources/msps Thank you for listening to Medicare Nation! If you are part of my “Sandwich Generation,” Share this show with your parents and/or grandparents. They have many questions about Medicare and this show will answer them! Buy them a “Smart Phone,” and introduce them to Medicare Nation! If you are a Baby Boomer, share Medicare Nation with other “Baby Boomers.” I want to educate as many of you as I can about Medicare! I certainly can use  your help in putting the word out! If you have any questions, send them to Support@TheMedicareNation.com If I can answer it in one email - I will personally answer you! If your question requires research or additional contact with you, I do offer consulting if you would like me to assist you in that manner. Want to hear a topic on Medicare Nation? A special guest? Let me know and I'll do my best to get them on the show! Thanks again for listening! Diane Daniels  

Part D Prescription Drug Plan Info For 2020

Hey Medicare Nation! <a href= "http://www.TheMedicareNation.com">www.TheMedicareNation.com</a> How Do I get treatment & prescriptions during a weather emergency? Hurricane Dorian is moving up the East Coast of the U.S., and MILLIONS of people have evacuated the coastlines, to seek safety. What happens if you get sick or you need to fill prescriptions while you’re away from home during a weather emergency? Or…. What happens if you need to move into a Skilled Nursing Facility, but you haven’t fulfilled the “3 Day Prior Hospitalizaton” Rule….due to the weather emergency? Let’s take a look at these questions for you. After President Trump Declared Emergencies in Puerto Rico, Florida, Georgia & South Carolina….. Health & Human Services Secretary ….. Alex Azar….Declared Public Health Emergencies in those States.  Secretary Azar also declared a “Blanket Waiver” for Hurricane Dorian. What that means…… is some restrictions under Medicare are more “Flexible” during the Declaration. For example……. You evacuated your home in Savannah Georgia, to go stay with your relatives in Michigan. Prior to evacuating your home, you were receiving home health care for physical therapy…due to a sprained ankle. If you are on Original Medicare, you can contact “Any” home health agency that accepts Medicare to re-start your physical therapy at your relative’s home. They should be able to contact Medicare to get copies of the orders you had for the Physical Therapy. If you’re on a Medicare Advantage Plan, you will need to contact your Plan carrier…… advise them you evacuated from a Public Health Emergency area and that you need to “Resume” physical therapy at home ASAP. The plan should contact a home health care vendor in the area you’re temporarily staying in, to resume your physical therapy. If you have a Medicare Specialist, call them! You WILL need their help in expediting the process. Remember…… MILLIONS of people have evacuated coastal areas! Don’t Delay!!! If you need to use your Medicare benefits…. CALL as soon as possible. For Prescription Medications……let’s say in the stress of having to “evacuate,” you forgot all your prescriptions at home. under a Medicare Advantage Plan, call your carrier & tell them what happened. You should be able to get a “Refill” under the “Emergency Waiver,”  for most prescriptions. If you need an Extension for 60 – 90 days for your prescription, due to being out of the area, call your plan and ask them if they “offer” extended day prescriptions. If you’re on an “opioid” prescription……… call your plan & advise them of your situation. Hopefully, you can get a refill…. for at least a day…. or two…… under the waiver, until you can be seen by a doctor in the area you’re temporarily staying at. Your carrier will tell you which Pharmacy is “IN” network…. Where you’re staying.  If there is NO pharmacy “In” Network where you’re staying, ask the carrier if they will “reimburse” you for the cost of the prescriptions. You will need a receipt with the Pharmacy name,  prescription name, and the price you paid for the prescription on the receipt to submit to your Medicare Advantage Carrier for reimbursement. If you had Durable Medical Equipment …… Orthotics, Prosthetics,  or Oxygen Supplies for example….. that was lost, destroyed, “irreparably damaged” ….. or otherwise rendered unusable…… you should be able to replace it from a vendor in the area you’re staying….. with the “flexibility” to WAIVE the replacement requirements that are normally in place. If you are on a Medicare Advantage Plan, contact your carrier for assistance in getting a replacement…. And advise them the “Blanket Waiver” is in place. They will assist you in finding a local vendor to “Replace” your equipment.    For those of you needing to stay at a “Skilled Nursing Facility,”Under “Normal” Circumstances…… if you or a loved one needed to enter a “Skilled Nursing Facility,” you would be required to have a “ 3 Day Prior Hospitalization” … prior to entering the Skilled Nursing Facility. Under the “Blanket Waiver,” the 3 Day prior hospitalization is “waived,” so that you can enter the Skilled Nursing Facility without further delay. This rule would be in effect “temporarily,” for those who are …… “ evacuated, transferred, or otherwise…. “dislocated” as a result of the emergency. So….. if you “evacuated” your home in Puerto Rico, Florida, Georgia or South Carolina, due to Hurricane Dorian….. and let’s say you’re temporarily staying with relatives in Pennsylvania………and you need to enter a Skilled Nursing Facility……you would be able to enter the facility without the 3 day prior hospitalization. If you are on a Medicare Advantage Plan, you must contact your carrier to assist you in determining which “Skilled Nursing Facilities” has room for you to be admitted into.   These are examples of how Medicare “requirements” are more flexible during a Public Health Emergency WITH a “Blanket Waiver.”   How long does the Blanket Waiver Last? Until Secretary AZAR signs an order stating the Public Health Emergency is over. NOW….. let’s take a look at how FEMA affects enrollment into Medicare.   FEMA… which stands for the Federal Emergency Management Agency, also declared emergencies in Puerto Rico, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina AND the Virgin Islands (which are St. Croix, St. John, St. Thomas AND Water Island) ….., which creates a “Special Election Period” for Medicare Beneficiaries, who needed to enroll in a Medicare Plan during that time, but were unable to ….. due to the effects of Hurricane Dorian. This means if you needed to enroll in Medicare, or into a Medicare Advantage Plan for September 1st…….. you will be given a Special Election Period to do so…. Under the Emergency “Weather Event.” So….if you need to enroll into a Medicare Advantage Plan…..OR…. a Stand-Alone Prescription Drug Plan…. you can do so, most likely through the end of October…… or even November in South Carolina & Georgia, under the FEMA Emergency. You can call Medicare at  800 – 633 – 4227 or your Medicare Specialist for more information.   If you feel you are overly “stressed” with all the information on TV & social media, about Hurricane Dorian…… #1 ….. STOP watching the news continuously!  Listen to some music…. Read a book….. play a board game. Go out for a walk. Continuously Watching the news about the weather is the worst thing you could do! If you need to speak with someone, you can call the “Disaster Distress Helpline.” Call  800 – 985  - 5990 to connect with a trained counselor, who can assist you with your distress. You can even “TEXT” ….. TALKWITHUS   type the letters all together and send it to…. 66746. You can also go online to get more Public Health & Safety info by going to <a href= "https://www.phe.gov/Dorian">https://www.phe.gov/Dorian</a> Finally….. if you would like to help those affected by Hurricane Dorian in the Bahamas….OR ….any of the other impacted States….. Call your local TV Station or go onto their websites to find information on how to volunteer or donate supplies. If you’d like to “donate” money to a cause….. For Animals. Go to the Humane Society of the United States website… <a href= "HumaneSociety.org/Disaster-Relief">HumaneSociety.org/Disaster-Relief</a> The Humane Society is evacuating animals form Animal Shelters across Florida and the other States. They have already helped transport almost 100 animals here in Florida, that they will place in “safe shelters,” with the hope of being put up for adoption. If you’d like to contribute to a Humanitarian Charity….. or one that is specifically helping those in the Bahamas…… go to the Charity Navigator website & they have a list of highly ranked charities that are providing relief. Go to   <a href= "http://charities.foundation/dorian">http://charities.foundation/dorian</a> To donate to one of these funds. That’s all for this special show and I wish everyone out there, in the path of Dorian…… that you & your loved ones are safe. Till next time.... Have a Safe & Peaceful week! Diane

Hey Medicare Nation! www.TheMedicareNation.com How Do I get treatment & prescriptions during a weather emergency? Hurricane Dorian is moving up the East Coast of the U.S., and MILLIONS of people have evacuated the coastlines, to seek safety. What happens if you get sick or you need to fill prescriptions while you’re away from home during a weather emergency? Or…. What happens if you need to move into a Skilled Nursing Facility, but you haven’t fulfilled the “3 Day Prior Hospitalizaton” Rule….due to the weather emergency? Let’s take a look at these questions for you. After President Trump Declared Emergencies in Puerto Rico, Florida, Georgia & South Carolina….. Health & Human Services Secretary ….. Alex Azar….Declared Public Health Emergencies in those States.  Secretary Azar also declared a “Blanket Waiver” for Hurricane Dorian. What that means…… is some restrictions under Medicare are more “Flexible” during the Declaration. For example……. You evacuated your home in Savannah Georgia, to go stay with your relatives in Michigan. Prior to evacuating your home, you were receiving home health care for physical therapy…due to a sprained ankle. If you are on Original Medicare, you can contact “Any” home health agency that accepts Medicare to re-start your physical therapy at your relative’s home. They should be able to contact Medicare to get copies of the orders you had for the Physical Therapy. If you’re on a Medicare Advantage Plan, you will need to contact your Plan carrier…… advise them you evacuated from a Public Health Emergency area and that you need to “Resume” physical therapy at home ASAP. The plan should contact a home health care vendor in the area you’re temporarily staying in, to resume your physical therapy. If you have a Medicare Specialist, call them! You WILL need their help in expediting the process. Remember…… MILLIONS of people have evacuated coastal areas! Don’t Delay!!! If you need to use your Medicare benefits…. CALL as soon as possible. For Prescription Medications……let’s say in the stress of having to “evacuate,” you forgot all your prescriptions at home. under a Medicare Advantage Plan, call your carrier & tell them what happened. You should be able to get a “Refill” under the “Emergency Waiver,”  for most prescriptions. If you need an Extension for 60 – 90 days for your prescription, due to being out of the area, call your plan and ask them if they “offer” extended day prescriptions. If you’re on an “opioid” prescription……… call your plan & advise them of your situation. Hopefully, you can get a refill…. for at least a day…. or two…… under the waiver, until you can be seen by a doctor in the area you’re temporarily staying at. Your carrier will tell you which Pharmacy is “IN” network…. Where you’re staying.  If there is NO pharmacy “In” Network where you’re staying, ask the carrier if they will “reimburse” you for the cost of the prescriptions. You will need a receipt with the Pharmacy name,  prescription name, and the price you paid for the prescription on the receipt to submit to your Medicare Advantage Carrier for reimbursement. If you had Durable Medical Equipment …… Orthotics, Prosthetics,  or Oxygen Supplies for example….. that was lost, destroyed, “irreparably damaged” ….. or otherwise rendered unusable…… you should be able to replace it from a vendor in the area you’re staying….. with the “flexibility” to WAIVE the replacement requirements that are normally in place. If you are on a Medicare Advantage Plan, contact your carrier for assistance in getting a replacement…. And advise them the “Blanket Waiver” is in place. They will assist you in finding a local vendor to “Replace” your equipment.    For those of you needing to stay at a “Skilled Nursing Facility,”Under “Normal” Circumstances…… if you or a loved one needed to enter a “Skilled Nursing Facility,” you would be required to have a “ 3 Day Prior Hospitalization” … prior to entering the Skilled Nursing Facility. Under the “Blanket Waiver,” the 3 Day prior hospitalization is “waived,” so that you can enter the Skilled Nursing Facility without further delay. This rule would be in effect “temporarily,” for those who are …… “ evacuated, transferred, or otherwise…. “dislocated” as a result of the emergency. So….. if you “evacuated” your home in Puerto Rico, Florida, Georgia or South Carolina, due to Hurricane Dorian….. and let’s say you’re temporarily staying with relatives in Pennsylvania………and you need to enter a Skilled Nursing Facility……you would be able to enter the facility without the 3 day prior hospitalization. If you are on a Medicare Advantage Plan, you must contact your carrier to assist you in determining which “Skilled Nursing Facilities” has room for you to be admitted into.   These are examples of how Medicare “requirements” are more flexible during a Public Health Emergency WITH a “Blanket Waiver.”   How long does the Blanket Waiver Last? Until Secretary AZAR signs an order stating the Public Health Emergency is over. NOW….. let’s take a look at how FEMA affects enrollment into Medicare.   FEMA… which stands for the Federal Emergency Management Agency, also declared emergencies in Puerto Rico, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina AND the Virgin Islands (which are St. Croix, St. John, St. Thomas AND Water Island) ….., which creates a “Special Election Period” for Medicare Beneficiaries, who needed to enroll in a Medicare Plan during that time, but were unable to ….. due to the effects of Hurricane Dorian. This means if you needed to enroll in Medicare, or into a Medicare Advantage Plan for September 1st…….. you will be given a Special Election Period to do so…. Under the Emergency “Weather Event.” So….if you need to enroll into a Medicare Advantage Plan…..OR…. a Stand-Alone Prescription Drug Plan…. you can do so, most likely through the end of October…… or even November in South Carolina & Georgia, under the FEMA Emergency. You can call Medicare at  800 – 633 – 4227 or your Medicare Specialist for more information.   If you feel you are overly “stressed” with all the information on TV & social media, about Hurricane Dorian…… #1 ….. STOP watching the news continuously!  Listen to some music…. Read a book….. play a board game. Go out for a walk. Continuously Watching the news about the weather is the worst thing you could do! If you need to speak with someone, you can call the “Disaster Distress Helpline.” Call  800 – 985  - 5990 to connect with a trained counselor, who can assist you with your distress. You can even “TEXT” ….. TALKWITHUS   type the letters all together and send it to…. 66746. You can also go online to get more Public Health & Safety info by going to https://www.phe.gov/Dorian Finally….. if you would like to help those affected by Hurricane Dorian in the Bahamas….OR ….any of the other impacted States….. Call your local TV Station or go onto their websites to find information on how to volunteer or donate supplies. If you’d like to “donate” money to a cause….. For Animals. Go to the Humane Society of the United States website… HumaneSociety.org/Disaster-Relief The Humane Society is evacuating animals form Animal Shelters across Florida and the other States. They have already helped transport almost 100 animals here in Florida, that they will place in “safe shelters,” with the hope of being put up for adoption. If you’d like to contribute to a Humanitarian Charity….. or one that is specifically helping those in the Bahamas…… go to the Charity Navigator website & they have a list of highly ranked charities that are providing relief. Go to   http://charities.foundation/dorian To donate to one of these funds. That’s all for this special show and I wish everyone out there, in the path of Dorian…… that you & your loved ones are safe. Till next time.... Have a Safe & Peaceful week! Diane 

How Do I Get Drugs During A Weather Emergency

Hey Medicare Nation! <a href= "http://www.TheMedicareNation.com">www.TheMedicareNation.com</a> If you are turning 65 or still working on  an employer group insurance plan, you may need assistance in finding the Medicare plan that fits YOUR unique needs. You may have a loved one in a nursing home or in an assisted living facility, who is not receiving proper care. Call me! You can hire me as a consultant to assist you with Medicare issues! Call 855-855-7266 or eMail me at <a href= "mailto:Support@TheMedicareNation.com">Support@TheMedicareNation.com</a> Tell me the situation and I'll personally get back to you! Today, I am speaking to you about Shingles Vaccines! There are two Shingles vaccines licensed in the United States available. The first one is the "Zoster Vaccine Live," also known as "Zostavax." Many of you probably have received this vaccine, which is a "Live" vaccine and the CDC reports it as being 51% effective against Shingles. The second vaccine is the "Recombinant Zoster Vaccine," also known as "Shingrix" has been used since October of 2017. The CDC reports the Shingrix vaccine is about 91% effective against Shingles. The cost of the Shingles vaccine is covered under Medicare "Part D." You can look up the Zostavax vaccine or Shingrix vaccine in your plan's formulary, or you can call the customer service number on the back of your identification card. Every plan can have a different cost for either vaccine, so it is important you check with your plan, prior to getting the vaccine. There are side effects that can be associated with either vaccine. Go to the CDC website to learn more about Shingles and the vaccines  <a href= "http://www.cdc.gov/vaccinesafety">www.cdc.gov/vaccinesafety</a> Learn more about how Shingles is transmitted, the sign & symptons and treatment for Shingles here: <a href= "http://www.cdc.gov/shingles">www.cdc.gov/shingles</a> I'm not a doctor! If you have any health related questions regarding shingles and/or vaccines, due your own due diligence or contact your health care provider for more information. Thank you for listening to Medicare Nation! If you are part of my “Sandwich Generation,” Share this show with your parents and/or grandparents. They have many questions about Medicare and this show will answer them! Buy them a “Smart Phone,” and introduce them to Medicare Nation! If you are a Baby Boomer, share Medicare Nation with other “Baby Boomers.” I want to educate as many of you as I can about Medicare! I certainly can use  your help in putting the word out! If you have any questions, send them to <a href= "mailto:Support@TheMedicareNation.com">Support@TheMedicareNation.com</a> If I can answer it in one email - I will personally answer you! If your question requires research or additional contact with you, I do offer consulting if you would like me to assist you in that manner. Want to hear a topic on Medicare Nation? A special guest? Let me know and I'll do my best to get them on the show! Thanks again for listening!

Hey Medicare Nation! www.TheMedicareNation.com If you are turning 65 or still working on  an employer group insurance plan, you may need assistance in finding the Medicare plan that fits YOUR unique needs. You may have a loved one in a nursing home or in an assisted living facility, who is not receiving proper care. Call me! You can hire me as a consultant to assist you with Medicare issues! Call 855-855-7266 or eMail me at Support@TheMedicareNation.com Tell me the situation and I'll personally get back to you! Today, I am speaking to you about Shingles Vaccines! There are two Shingles vaccines licensed in the United States available. The first one is the "Zoster Vaccine Live," also known as "Zostavax." Many of you probably have received this vaccine, which is a "Live" vaccine and the CDC reports it as being 51% effective against Shingles. The second vaccine is the "Recombinant Zoster Vaccine," also known as "Shingrix" has been used since October of 2017. The CDC reports the Shingrix vaccine is about 91% effective against Shingles. The cost of the Shingles vaccine is covered under Medicare "Part D." You can look up the Zostavax vaccine or Shingrix vaccine in your plan's formulary, or you can call the customer service number on the back of your identification card. Every plan can have a different cost for either vaccine, so it is important you check with your plan, prior to getting the vaccine. There are side effects that can be associated with either vaccine. Go to the CDC website to learn more about Shingles and the vaccines  www.cdc.gov/vaccinesafety Learn more about how Shingles is transmitted, the sign & symptons and treatment for Shingles here: www.cdc.gov/shingles I'm not a doctor! If you have any health related questions regarding shingles and/or vaccines, due your own due diligence or contact your health care provider for more information. Thank you for listening to Medicare Nation! If you are part of my “Sandwich Generation,” Share this show with your parents and/or grandparents. They have many questions about Medicare and this show will answer them! Buy them a “Smart Phone,” and introduce them to Medicare Nation! If you are a Baby Boomer, share Medicare Nation with other “Baby Boomers.” I want to educate as many of you as I can about Medicare! I certainly can use  your help in putting the word out! If you have any questions, send them to Support@TheMedicareNation.com If I can answer it in one email - I will personally answer you! If your question requires research or additional contact with you, I do offer consulting if you would like me to assist you in that manner. Want to hear a topic on Medicare Nation? A special guest? Let me know and I'll do my best to get them on the show! Thanks again for listening!    

With Two Shingles Vaccines Available, Which One Should I Get?

Hey Medicare Nation! <a href= "http://www.TheMedicareNation.com">www.TheMedicareNation.com</a> Help your PARENTS, Spouses and Friends "SUBSCRIBE" to Medicare Nation! With almost 100 episodes on Medicare and Medicare Resources available, your loved-one will be able to find answers to their Medicare questions! Use the "Purple" colored icon on an Apple phone or .... download Stitcher, Himalaya or Player FM when using Android phones. Search for "Medicare" and "click" on the Medicare Nation logo. You'll see the "subscribe" button on the page. "Click" subscribe and they'll get the NEWEST Medicare Nation episodes delievered to their phone. TODAY.... I'm discussing NEW information released from CMS.   CMS Decision Summary Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring  Devices July 2, 2019…..The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has determined that the evidence is sufficient to cover Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) for the diagnosis of hypertension in Medicare beneficiaries.  What is hypertension (high blood pressure)? The American Heart Association (AHA) defines blood pressure as…. a force that pushes blood through a network of arteries, veins and capillaries. The blood pressure reading is the result of two forces: <ol> <li>the systolic pressure occurs as blood pumps out of the heart and into the arteries;</li> <li>diastolic pressure is created as the heart rests between heart beats (American Heart Association, 2018).</li> </ol> Elevated blood pressure, or hypertension, leads to harm by causing tiny tears in the interior lining of the arteries and coronary vessels…..stimulating a local immune response in the endothelial cells within the atrial walls.  In these regions, the arterial intima retains apolipoprotein B, which attracts lipid-rich macrophages (foam cells).   These preatherotic lesions develop into atherosclerotic plaques which become increasingly fibrotic and can form fissures, hematomas, thrombi, and calcifications (Swirski and Nahrendorf, 2013). The end result is stiff, thickened arteries that narrow the flow of blood to organs and limbs….which both increases pressure on target organs and limits oxygenation of them. There is also the risk of atherosclerotic plaque rupture, resulting in distal vascular obstruction and ischemia and infarction of end organs, such as stroke in the brain (U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, 2018). CMS is lowering the blood pressure threshold for hypertension… from the current policy of 140/90 down to 130/80 to align with the latest society recommendations regarding the diagnostic criteria.  This will allow more patients to use ABPM and receive appropriate treatment if needed. <ol> <li>General</li> </ol> Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) is a diagnostic test… that allows for the identification of various types of high blood pressure. ABPM devises are small… portable machines that are connected to a blood pressure cuff worn by patients…. that record blood pressure at regular periods over 24 to 48 hours while the patient goes about their normal activities..including sleep. The recording is interpreted by a physician or non-physician practitioner….and appropriate action is taken based on the findings. Diagnosis and treatment of high blood pressure is important for the management of various conditions…. including cardiovascular disease and kidney disease.   Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) for the diagnosis of hypertension in Medicare beneficiaries is covered under the following circumstances: <ol> <li>For beneficiaries with suspected “white coat hypertension,” which is defined as an average office blood pressure of systolic blood pressure greater than 130 mm … but less than 160 mm … or diastolic blood pressure greater than 80… but less than 100… on two separate clinic/office visits …..with at least two separate measurements made at each visit and with at least two blood pressure measurements taken outside the office which are <130/80 mm Hg.</li> <li>For beneficiaries with suspected “masked hypertension,” which is defined as average office blood pressure between 120 and 129 for systolic blood pressure or between 75 and 79 for diastolic blood pressure on two separate clinic/office visits…. with at least two separate measurements made at each visit and with at least two blood pressure measurements taken outside the office which are ≥ 130/80</li> </ol> ABPM devices must be: <ul> <li>capable of producing standardized plots of blood pressure measurements for 24 hours with daytime and night-time windows and normal blood pressure bands demarcated;</li> <li>provided to patients with oral and written instructions and a test run in the physician’s office must be performed; and</li> <li>interpreted by the treating physician or treating non-physician practitioner.</li> <li>For eligible patients, ABPM is covered once per year.</li> </ul>   CMS has covered ABPM since 2001 only for those patients with documented suspected white coat hypertension. On January 16, 2003, a technical correction for this National Coverage Determination was issued…. to clarify that a physician is required to perform the interpretation of the data obtained through ABPM…. but that there are no requirements regarding the setting in which the interpretation is performed. CMS received a complete, formal request for a reconsideration of the national coverage determination from the American Heart Association and American Medical Association. You can view the formal request letter on the tracking sheet on the CMS website. Benefit Category Medicare is a defined benefit program. For an item or service to be covered by the Medicare program, it must fall within one of the statutorily defined benefit categories outlined in the Social Security Act. ABPM may be considered to be within the benefits described under sections: other diagnostic tests  (§1861(s)(3). Medicare regulations state in part, that "…diagnostic tests must be ordered by the physician who is treating the beneficiary, that is, the physician who furnishes a consultation or treats a beneficiary for a specific medical problem and who uses the results in the management of the beneficiary’s specific medical problem." (42 CFR 410.32(a))    UNDER APPENDIX C (Current Section 20.19 of the National Coverage Determination Manual) Item/Service Description Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) involves the use of a non-invasive device which is used to measure blood pressure in 24-hour cycles. These 24-hour measurements are stored in the device and are later interpreted by the physician. Indications and Limitations of Coverage ABPM must be performed for at least 24 hours to meet coverage criteria. ABPM is only covered for those patients with suspected white coat hypertension. Suspected white coat hypertension is defined as: Office blood pressure >140/90 on at least three separate clinic/office visits with two separate measurements made at each visit; <ol> <li>At least two documented blood pressure measurements taken outside the office which are <140/90 and</li> <li>No evidence of end-organ damage.</li> <li>The information obtained by ABPM is necessary in order to determine the appropriate management of the patient. ABPM is not covered for any other uses.</li> </ol>   In the rare circumstance that ABPM needs to be performed more than once in a patient, the qualifying criteria described above must be met for each subsequent ABPM test. For those patients that undergo ABPM and have an ambulatory blood pressure of <135/85 with no evidence of end-organ damage, it is likely that their cardiovascular risk is similar to that of normotensives. Patients should be followed over time. Patients for which ABPM demonstrates a blood pressure of >135/85 may be at increased cardiovascular risk, and a physician may wish to consider antihypertensive therapy Resources:    Medicare.gov Website     Thank you for listening to Medicare Nation! If you are part of my “Sandwich Generation,” Share this show with your parents and/or grandparents. They have many questions about Medicare and this show will answer them! Buy them a “Smart Phone,” and introduce them to Medicare Nation! If you are a Baby Boomer, share Medicare Nation with other “Baby Boomers.” I want to educate as many of you as I can about Medicare! I certainly can use  your help in putting the word out! If you have any questions, send them to <a href= "mailto:Support@TheMedicareNation.com">Support@TheMedicareNation.com</a> If I can answer it in one email - I will personally answer you! If your question requires research or additional contact with you, I do offer consulting if you would like me to assist you in that manner. Want to hear a topic on Medicare Nation? A special guest? Let me know and I'll do my best to get them on the show! Thanks again for listening! Diane Daniels

Hey Medicare Nation! www.TheMedicareNation.com Help your PARENTS, Spouses and Friends "SUBSCRIBE" to Medicare Nation! With almost 100 episodes on Medicare and Medicare Resources available, your loved-one will be able to find answers to their Medicare questions! Use the "Purple" colored icon on an Apple phone or .... download Stitcher, Himalaya or Player FM when using Android phones. Search for "Medicare" and "click" on the Medicare Nation logo. You'll see the "subscribe" button on the page. "Click" subscribe and they'll get the NEWEST Medicare Nation episodes delievered to their phone. TODAY.... I'm discussing NEW information released from CMS.   CMS Decision Summary Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring  Devices July 2, 2019…..The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has determined that the evidence is sufficient to cover Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) for the diagnosis of hypertension in Medicare beneficiaries.  What is hypertension (high blood pressure)? The American Heart Association (AHA) defines blood pressure as…. a force that pushes blood through a network of arteries, veins and capillaries. The blood pressure reading is the result of two forces: the systolic pressure occurs as blood pumps out of the heart and into the arteries; diastolic pressure is created as the heart rests between heart beats (American Heart Association, 2018). Elevated blood pressure, or hypertension, leads to harm by causing tiny tears in the interior lining of the arteries and coronary vessels…..stimulating a local immune response in the endothelial cells within the atrial walls.  In these regions, the arterial intima retains apolipoprotein B, which attracts lipid-rich macrophages (foam cells).   These preatherotic lesions develop into atherosclerotic plaques which become increasingly fibrotic and can form fissures, hematomas, thrombi, and calcifications (Swirski and Nahrendorf, 2013). The end result is stiff, thickened arteries that narrow the flow of blood to organs and limbs….which both increases pressure on target organs and limits oxygenation of them. There is also the risk of atherosclerotic plaque rupture, resulting in distal vascular obstruction and ischemia and infarction of end organs, such as stroke in the brain (U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, 2018). CMS is lowering the blood pressure threshold for hypertension… from the current policy of 140/90 down to 130/80 to align with the latest society recommendations regarding the diagnostic criteria.  This will allow more patients to use ABPM and receive appropriate treatment if needed. General Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) is a diagnostic test… that allows for the identification of various types of high blood pressure. ABPM devises are small… portable machines that are connected to a blood pressure cuff worn by patients…. that record blood pressure at regular periods over 24 to 48 hours while the patient goes about their normal activities..including sleep. The recording is interpreted by a physician or non-physician practitioner….and appropriate action is taken based on the findings. Diagnosis and treatment of high blood pressure is important for the management of various conditions…. including cardiovascular disease and kidney disease.   Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) for the diagnosis of hypertension in Medicare beneficiaries is covered under the following circumstances: For beneficiaries with suspected “white coat hypertension,” which is defined as an average office blood pressure of systolic blood pressure greater than 130 mm … but less than 160 mm … or diastolic blood pressure greater than 80… but less than 100… on two separate clinic/office visits …..with at least two separate measurements made at each visit and with at least two blood pressure measurements taken outside the office which are 140/90 on at least three separate clinic/office visits with two separate measurements made at each visit; At least two documented blood pressure measurements taken outside the office which are 

CMS Approves Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitors

Hey Medicare Nation! <a href= "http://www.TheMedicareNation.com">www.TheMedicareNation.com</a> Today, I'm discussing how the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) SLAPPED Agewell New York LLC with a Civil Money Penalty of $39,200! CMS conducts audits to ensure Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plans are following conditions of the current contract as well as Medicare rules & regulations.  From March 9, 2018 through May 15, 2018, CMS Conducted an audit of Agewell's 2016 Medicare financial information. In a financial audit report issued on September 20, 2018, CMS auditors reported that Agewell failed to comply with Medicare requirements related to Part C (Medicare Advantage) cost sharing. Specifically, auditors found that in 2016 Agewell failed to comply with cost-sharing requirements by charging "incorrect" co-payments to enrollees for medical services. Enrollees were affected in the following area: Bronx, NY; Kings County Brooklyn, NY; Nassua County, NY, Manhattan, Queens and Westchester County, NY. Agewell's failure was "systemic," and "adversely affected" enrollees or the substantial likelihood of adversely affecting enrollees because they experienced out-of-pocket costs. CMS determined that Agewell was charging a $30 "specialist" co-pay was applied to "primary care physician" claims instead of a $0 co-pay as stated in the plan's Explanation of Coverage. Enrollees were NOT Refunded the overcharged amounts until AFTER the financial audit concluded, which was 2 years after the incurred cost. In 2016, If you paid a $30 co-pay to see YOUR Primary Physician, when you were only obligated to pay $0,  you should contact Agewell at 888-586-8044 and ask to speak to a supervisor, regarding the CMS penalty. Advise the supervisor of the date & time of your appointment with your Primary Doctor and that you have proof of a payment that you made of $30 for your visit. Advise the supervisor that you would like to be refunded the $30 immediately.  Write down the name of the supervisor, the date & time you called Agewell and what the supervisor stated Agewell would do for you. If you donot receive your refund within 14 business days, call Medicare directly at 800-633-4227 and advise Medicare of the situation. If you have any "complaints" regarding the way you were treated by any representative at Agewell, you can make an annonymous complaint to Agewell's confidential hotline - 888-336-7240. You can also make a complaint to Medicare directly by calling 800-633-4227. If you have a complaint, regarding any physician or facility in the Agewell network, you can call the Agewell confidential hotline to make your complaint - 888-336-7240. If you are uncomfortable making a formal complaint and you would like assistance with your complaint you can : 1. contact the Insurance Agent or Medicare Specialist who enrolled you into the Agewell plan  or 2. contact your local "SHIP" (State Health Insurance & Assistance Program) representative by "clicking" on your State here - <a href= "https://www.shiptacenter.org/">https://www.shiptacenter.org/</a> when the page opens, go all the way to the bottom of the page and you'll see an "orange" button that reads - Find Your Local SHIP "Click" on that ORANGE buton and a list will come up of all 50 States. "Click" on the State where you reside, to contact your local SHIP center. If YOU need help with finding the Medicare Advantage Plan that is right for your UNIQUE needs, contact me at either: <a href= "mailto:Support@TheMedicareNation.com">Support@TheMedicareNation.com</a> or  call me at 855-855-7266 If I can answer your question in ONE paragraph in an email, I will directly answer your question! If it takes more than one paragraph to answer your question or I need to do research to answer your question....then....I will respond by advising you that you will need to contact me and request my consultative services.  I currently charge $199.00 an hour, and I consult with Medicare beneficiaries and the Adult Children of beneficiaries ALL over the country! Please SUBSCRIBE to Medicare Nation so that you will receive EVERY NEW episode that is published! Give Medicare Nation a ***** 5-Star Review on iTunes! The more reviews we get, the more people can find the show! Go to <a href= "http://www.itunes.com">www.itunes.com</a> and type MEDICARE NATION in the search bar. When the page opens, "Click" on the Review tab and leave your review! Thanks so much for listening! If you'd like to hear about a specific topic on the show or you'd like a specific guest on the show...... send me an email to <a href= "mailto:Support@TheMedicareNation.com">Support@TheMedicareNation.com</a> I appreciate your Support! Diane Daniels

Hey Medicare Nation! www.TheMedicareNation.com Today, I'm discussing how the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) SLAPPED Agewell New York LLC with a Civil Money Penalty of $39,200! CMS conducts audits to ensure Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plans are following conditions of the current contract as well as Medicare rules & regulations.  From March 9, 2018 through May 15, 2018, CMS Conducted an audit of Agewell's 2016 Medicare financial information. In a financial audit report issued on September 20, 2018, CMS auditors reported that Agewell failed to comply with Medicare requirements related to Part C (Medicare Advantage) cost sharing. Specifically, auditors found that in 2016 Agewell failed to comply with cost-sharing requirements by charging "incorrect" co-payments to enrollees for medical services. Enrollees were affected in the following area: Bronx, NY; Kings County Brooklyn, NY; Nassua County, NY, Manhattan, Queens and Westchester County, NY. Agewell's failure was "systemic," and "adversely affected" enrollees or the substantial likelihood of adversely affecting enrollees because they experienced out-of-pocket costs. CMS determined that Agewell was charging a $30 "specialist" co-pay was applied to "primary care physician" claims instead of a $0 co-pay as stated in the plan's Explanation of Coverage. Enrollees were NOT Refunded the overcharged amounts until AFTER the financial audit concluded, which was 2 years after the incurred cost. In 2016, If you paid a $30 co-pay to see YOUR Primary Physician, when you were only obligated to pay $0,  you should contact Agewell at 888-586-8044 and ask to speak to a supervisor, regarding the CMS penalty. Advise the supervisor of the date & time of your appointment with your Primary Doctor and that you have proof of a payment that you made of $30 for your visit. Advise the supervisor that you would like to be refunded the $30 immediately.  Write down the name of the supervisor, the date & time you called Agewell and what the supervisor stated Agewell would do for you. If you donot receive your refund within 14 business days, call Medicare directly at 800-633-4227 and advise Medicare of the situation. If you have any "complaints" regarding the way you were treated by any representative at Agewell, you can make an annonymous complaint to Agewell's confidential hotline - 888-336-7240. You can also make a complaint to Medicare directly by calling 800-633-4227. If you have a complaint, regarding any physician or facility in the Agewell network, you can call the Agewell confidential hotline to make your complaint - 888-336-7240. If you are uncomfortable making a formal complaint and you would like assistance with your complaint you can : 1. contact the Insurance Agent or Medicare Specialist who enrolled you into the Agewell plan  or 2. contact your local "SHIP" (State Health Insurance & Assistance Program) representative by "clicking" on your State here - https://www.shiptacenter.org/ when the page opens, go all the way to the bottom of the page and you'll see an "orange" button that reads - Find Your Local SHIP "Click" on that ORANGE buton and a list will come up of all 50 States. "Click" on the State where you reside, to contact your local SHIP center. If YOU need help with finding the Medicare Advantage Plan that is right for your UNIQUE needs, contact me at either: Support@TheMedicareNation.com or  call me at 855-855-7266 If I can answer your question in ONE paragraph in an email, I will directly answer your question! If it takes more than one paragraph to answer your question or I need to do research to answer your question....then....I will respond by advising you that you will need to contact me and request my consultative services.  I currently charge $199.00 an hour, and I consult with Medicare beneficiaries and the Adult Children of beneficiaries ALL over the country! Please SUBSCRIBE to Medicare Nation so that you will receive EVERY NEW episode that is published! Give Medicare Nation a ***** 5-Star Review on iTunes! The more reviews we get, the more people can find the show! Go to www.itunes.com and type MEDICARE NATION in the search bar. When the page opens, "Click" on the Review tab and leave your review! Thanks so much for listening! If you'd like to hear about a specific topic on the show or you'd like a specific guest on the show...... send me an email to Support@TheMedicareNation.com I appreciate your Support! Diane Daniels  

CMS Slaps Agewell NY With Civil Money Penalty

Multi Target Stool DNA Test  vs. Fecal Occult Blood Test  Hey Medicare Nation! <a href= "http://www.TheMedicareNation.com">www.TheMedicareNation.com</a> Have you subscribed to Medicare Nation? Don’t know how? If you have an Apple iPhone……. Click on the “Purple” icon…. With the white microphone. When the page opens….Click on SEARCH. Type in Medicare. Medicare Nation comes right up… WHY……BECAUSE….. it’s a TOP 100 APPLE PODCAST Nation! Click on that Beautiful Flag “Medicare Nation” Logo. When the page opens….Click on the SUBSCRIBE button! That’s it. You’ll get the latest information on Medicare and you can search through the almost 100 episodes on Medicare Information! Are Your Parents subscribed to Medicare Nation? Come On “Sandwich Generation” Show your parents HOW to Subscribe to Medicare Nation! Once they subscribe…. They will STOP asking you questions about Medicare, because they WILL Find the answer by listening to Medicare Nation episodes! Let’s give YOU back some time…. So that YOU can have more time for yourself   Today…..I’m going to be talking to you about the Differences Between Multi Target Stool DNA Test  vs. Fecal Occult Blood Test Medicare offers these Preventative Tests to determine if you have blood in your stool and/or suspected cancerous characteristics. ColoRectal  cancer (CRC) is the second most frequent cause of cancer DEATH in the United States.  The Most Frequent Cause of Cancer Death is…… Lung Cancer. This year, an estimated 145,600 adults in the United States will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer. According to Cancer.net…… an estimated 51,020 of the 145,600 adults will die this year…..due to ColoRectal Cancer. When colorectal cancer is found early, it can often be cured. CURED Nation! This is due to improvements in treatment and increased screening….. which finds colorectal changes before they turn cancerous and cancer at earlier stages. Medicare Part B offers TWO Preventative Screening Tests The First…. Is a Fecal Occult Blood Test “Fecal Occult” Blood Test is just a scary way of saying….. “ Looking for Blood in your Poop.”  The test ONLY detects the “presence” or “absence” of blood in your stool. The test does not indicate potential sources of bleeding and it does not “Diagnos” disease. “Fecal” means……“Stool” or “Poop”….and…. “Occult Blood” means you can’t see the blood in your stool with the “naked eye,” so….. the specimen is sent to the lab for a closer look. Blood in the stool may indicate polyps…. or it may indicate cancer in the intestine or rectum….though not all cancers or polyps bleed. If blood is detected through the “Fecal Occult Blood Test,” additional tests may be needed to determine the source of bleeding as well as “diagnosing” an ailment or disease. Blood in the stool could also mean Hemorrhoids….which are swollen veins in the lowest part of your rectum and anus. Sometimes the walls of these blood vessels stretch so thin….. that the veins bulge and get irritated, especially when you poop! Straining while pooping is a major factor in Hemorrhoids.  EAT more Fiber Nation! Eat More Vegetables….try Metamucil or Miralax. Straining to poop is not good. Drink more water! You should try to drink at least 96 oz. a day. I use a 24oz bottle I fill 4 x a day….. to get my 96 oz of water. You can do it. It’s important. Hemorrhoids can cause itching & pain.  Hemorrhoids can also bleed. There are several types of Fecal Occult Blood Tests, I’m going to discuss the “newer version,” which is called a “ Immunochemical Fecal Occult Blood Test,” (aka iFOBT or FIT) The IFOBT or FIT test is less of a mess and easy to administer. Typically, you have a “spoon-like” device to collect the sample of stool and you place the device into a collection container then seal it. You either return the collection container to your doctor’s office, or you mail it. There are no dietary restriction with the iFOB-IT and the test can be performed on any random sample of your stool. Your Doctor will review the results and there are just two options: <ol> <li>Negative Result, which means no blood was detected in the stool sample you provided.</li> </ol> OR…….. <ol start="2"> <li>Positive Result, which means blood WAS detected in the stool sample you provided.</li> </ol>   This type of test ISN’T ALWAYS accurate. Your fecal occult blood test could show a negative test result when cancer is present (false-negative result) if your cancer or polyps don't bleed. If you had the test to screen for colon cancer and you're at average risk — you have no colon cancer risk factors other than age — your doctor may recommend waiting one year and then repeating the test.  If you have a “positive result,” You may need additional testing — such as a colonoscopy — to locate the source of the bleeding. Under Medicare…… The Fecal Occult Blood Test…. can be given ONCE every 12 months if you’re 50 or older, at ZERO Cost to you.        Now….. let’s take a look at Mult-Target Stool DNA Tests. You will know the “Multi-Target Stool DNA Test” more commonly known as “ColoGuard.” ColoGuard …….   addresses several barriers to colorectal screening. <ol> <li>Patient concerns with colonoscopy. Include…having to schedule a separate and lengthy appointment at the testing facility.</li> <li>The need to undergo a “Stay Close to my Bathroom” bowel preparation</li> <li>the exposure to sedation or anesthesia……and</li> <li>the discomfort associated with an invasive imaging process…. Of sticking either the “colono-scope” during a colonoscopy or a flexible sigmoud device up your butt.</li> </ol>   By comparison, the “Multi Target Stool DNA” screening test is a noninvasive, “multi-marker”, stool-based ColoRectal Cancer screening test….. that detects altered De-oxyribo-nucleic Acid (DNA), , as well as a fecal immunochemical test (FIT)… for blood released from cancer and precancerous lesions of the colon. The presence of fecal hemoglobin….. even in the absence of elevated DNA markers…..can lead to a positive result given the weighted nature of the Multi Target Stool DNA algorithm. Patients may collect and mail stool specimens from their homes with no bowel preparations and no dietary or medication restrictions.   Medicare covers this at-home multi-target stool DNA lab test…. once every 3 years…if you meet ALL of these conditions:   <ul> <li>You’re  between the age of  50-85.</li> <li>You show NO CURRENT symptoms of colorectal disease including, but not limited to one of these:</li> </ul> <div style="margin-left: 2em"> <ul> <li>Lower gastrointestinal pain</li> <li>Blood in stool</li> <li>Positive Guaiac fecal occult blood test….which is an older version of the Immunochemical Test… where you “smear” stool onto a TEST Card with a wooden applicator or brush. The Guaiac test has dietary restrictions and you are required to collect “TWO” or more samples from the same Stool Sample for the test. Much Messier than the Immunochemical Fecal Blood Occult Test.</li> <li>OR……</li> <li>A Positive Result from a Fecal Blood Occult Test</li> </ul> </div> ALSO    YOU NEED TO BE….. <ul> <li>at average risk for developing colorectal cancer, meaning:</li> <li style="list-style: none; display: inline"> <ul> <li>You have no personal history of  (adenomateous ) polyps”  which are …..  a common type of polyp. They are gland-like growths that develop on the mucous membrane that lines the large intestine. They are also called adenomas:</li> </ul> </li> </ul> You have no personal history of  … colorectal cancer, or inflammatory bowel disease, including Crohn’s Disease and ulcerative colitis. OR…… <div style="margin-left: 2em"> <ul> <li>You have no family history of colorectal cancers or adenomatous polyps, familial adenomatous polyposis, or hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer.</li> </ul> </div>   If you meet the above criteria….. You pay nothing for this test if your doctor…. or other qualified health care provider accepts Medicare.   So that’s the difference between Multi Target Stool DNA Tests vs. Fecal Occult Blood Test.   If you haven’t had one of these preventative tests, speak to your primary doctor and get one. It could very well SAVE YOUR LIFE!   If you have any questions about Medicare…. Send me an email to – <a href= "mailto:Support@TheMedicareNation.com">Support@TheMedicareNation.com</a>   I answer ALL my emails. As long as I can answer your question in a paragraph, I’ll answer your question. If my response involves any research or it will take more than one paragraph to answer you….. I’ll send you a suggestion to hire me as your Medicare Consultant.   I charge $199.00 an hour. I’m one of the TOP Medicare Experts in the Country Nation…… I could easily command $400 or $500 an hour, but I CARE about each and every one of you! My time is extremely valuable and I want to help as many of you as I can with your Medicare problems and Medicare Plan Comparisons.   Also…..if you’d like to have me speak about Medicare … go to the website…  <a href= "http://www.TheMedicareNation.com">www.TheMedicareNation.com</a> and click on the Contact tab and send me your information. I’ve already started booking speaking engagements for the Annual Enrollment Period…. Starting in October…so contact me now to schedule me for your corporation or event.   Thanks for listening to Medicare Nation! I appreciate your loyalty and referrals. Until next time…. I want YOU to have a Peaceful, Happy & Prosperous Week!   Diane

Multi Target Stool DNA Test  vs. Fecal Occult Blood Test  Hey Medicare Nation! www.TheMedicareNation.com Have you subscribed to Medicare Nation? Don’t know how? If you have an Apple iPhone……. Click on the “Purple” icon…. With the white microphone. When the page opens….Click on SEARCH. Type in Medicare. Medicare Nation comes right up… WHY……BECAUSE….. it’s a TOP 100 APPLE PODCAST Nation! Click on that Beautiful Flag “Medicare Nation” Logo. When the page opens….Click on the SUBSCRIBE button! That’s it. You’ll get the latest information on Medicare and you can search through the almost 100 episodes on Medicare Information! Are Your Parents subscribed to Medicare Nation? Come On “Sandwich Generation” Show your parents HOW to Subscribe to Medicare Nation! Once they subscribe…. They will STOP asking you questions about Medicare, because they WILL Find the answer by listening to Medicare Nation episodes! Let’s give YOU back some time…. So that YOU can have more time for yourself   Today…..I’m going to be talking to you about the Differences Between Multi Target Stool DNA Test  vs. Fecal Occult Blood Test Medicare offers these Preventative Tests to determine if you have blood in your stool and/or suspected cancerous characteristics. ColoRectal  cancer (CRC) is the second most frequent cause of cancer DEATH in the United States.  The Most Frequent Cause of Cancer Death is…… Lung Cancer. This year, an estimated 145,600 adults in the United States will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer. According to Cancer.net…… an estimated 51,020 of the 145,600 adults will die this year…..due to ColoRectal Cancer. When colorectal cancer is found early, it can often be cured. CURED Nation! This is due to improvements in treatment and increased screening….. which finds colorectal changes before they turn cancerous and cancer at earlier stages. Medicare Part B offers TWO Preventative Screening Tests The First…. Is a Fecal Occult Blood Test “Fecal Occult” Blood Test is just a scary way of saying….. “ Looking for Blood in your Poop.”  The test ONLY detects the “presence” or “absence” of blood in your stool. The test does not indicate potential sources of bleeding and it does not “Diagnos” disease. “Fecal” means……“Stool” or “Poop”….and…. “Occult Blood” means you can’t see the blood in your stool with the “naked eye,” so….. the specimen is sent to the lab for a closer look. Blood in the stool may indicate polyps…. or it may indicate cancer in the intestine or rectum….though not all cancers or polyps bleed. If blood is detected through the “Fecal Occult Blood Test,” additional tests may be needed to determine the source of bleeding as well as “diagnosing” an ailment or disease. Blood in the stool could also mean Hemorrhoids….which are swollen veins in the lowest part of your rectum and anus. Sometimes the walls of these blood vessels stretch so thin….. that the veins bulge and get irritated, especially when you poop! Straining while pooping is a major factor in Hemorrhoids.  EAT more Fiber Nation! Eat More Vegetables….try Metamucil or Miralax. Straining to poop is not good. Drink more water! You should try to drink at least 96 oz. a day. I use a 24oz bottle I fill 4 x a day….. to get my 96 oz of water. You can do it. It’s important. Hemorrhoids can cause itching & pain.  Hemorrhoids can also bleed. There are several types of Fecal Occult Blood Tests, I’m going to discuss the “newer version,” which is called a “ Immunochemical Fecal Occult Blood Test,” (aka iFOBT or FIT) The IFOBT or FIT test is less of a mess and easy to administer. Typically, you have a “spoon-like” device to collect the sample of stool and you place the device into a collection container then seal it. You either return the collection container to your doctor’s office, or you mail it. There are no dietary restriction with the iFOB-IT and the test can be performed on any random sample of your stool. Your Doctor will review the results and there are just two options: Negative Result, which means no blood was detected in the stool sample you provided. OR…….. Positive Result, which means blood WAS detected in the stool sample you provided.   This type of test ISN’T ALWAYS accurate. Your fecal occult blood test could show a negative test result when cancer is present (false-negative result) if your cancer or polyps don't bleed. If you had the test to screen for colon cancer and you're at average risk — you have no colon cancer risk factors other than age — your doctor may recommend waiting one year and then repeating the test.  If you have a “positive result,” You may need additional testing — such as a colonoscopy — to locate the source of the bleeding. Under Medicare…… The Fecal Occult Blood Test…. can be given ONCE every 12 months if you’re 50 or older, at ZERO Cost to you.        Now….. let’s take a look at Mult-Target Stool DNA Tests. You will know the “Multi-Target Stool DNA Test” more commonly known as “ColoGuard.” ColoGuard …….   addresses several barriers to colorectal screening. Patient concerns with colonoscopy. Include…having to schedule a separate and lengthy appointment at the testing facility. The need to undergo a “Stay Close to my Bathroom” bowel preparation the exposure to sedation or anesthesia……and the discomfort associated with an invasive imaging process…. Of sticking either the “colono-scope” during a colonoscopy or a flexible sigmoud device up your butt.   By comparison, the “Multi Target Stool DNA” screening test is a noninvasive, “multi-marker”, stool-based ColoRectal Cancer screening test….. that detects altered De-oxyribo-nucleic Acid (DNA), , as well as a fecal immunochemical test (FIT)… for blood released from cancer and precancerous lesions of the colon. The presence of fecal hemoglobin….. even in the absence of elevated DNA markers…..can lead to a positive result given the weighted nature of the Multi Target Stool DNA algorithm. Patients may collect and mail stool specimens from their homes with no bowel preparations and no dietary or medication restrictions.   Medicare covers this at-home multi-target stool DNA lab test…. once every 3 years…if you meet ALL of these conditions:   You’re  between the age of  50-85. You show NO CURRENT symptoms of colorectal disease including, but not limited to one of these: Lower gastrointestinal pain Blood in stool Positive Guaiac fecal occult blood test….which is an older version of the Immunochemical Test… where you “smear” stool onto a TEST Card with a wooden applicator or brush. The Guaiac test has dietary restrictions and you are required to collect “TWO” or more samples from the same Stool Sample for the test. Much Messier than the Immunochemical Fecal Blood Occult Test. OR…… A Positive Result from a Fecal Blood Occult Test ALSO    YOU NEED TO BE….. at average risk for developing colorectal cancer, meaning: You have no personal history of  (adenomateous ) polyps”  which are …..  a common type of polyp. They are gland-like growths that develop on the mucous membrane that lines the large intestine. They are also called adenomas: You have no personal history of  … colorectal cancer, or inflammatory bowel disease, including Crohn’s Disease and ulcerative colitis. OR…… You have no family history of colorectal cancers or adenomatous polyps, familial adenomatous polyposis, or hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer.   If you meet the above criteria….. You pay nothing for this test if your doctor…. or other qualified health care provider accepts Medicare.   So that’s the difference between Multi Target Stool DNA Tests vs. Fecal Occult Blood Test.   If you haven’t had one of these preventative tests, speak to your primary doctor and get one. It could very well SAVE YOUR LIFE!   If you have any questions about Medicare…. Send me an email to – Support@TheMedicareNation.com   I answer ALL my emails. As long as I can answer your question in a paragraph, I’ll answer your question. If my response involves any research or it will take more than one paragraph to answer you….. I’ll send you a suggestion to hire me as your Medicare Consultant.   I charge $199.00 an hour. I’m one of the TOP Medicare Experts in the Country Nation…… I could easily command $400 or $500 an hour, but I CARE about each and every one of you! My time is extremely valuable and I want to help as many of you as I can with your Medicare problems and Medicare Plan Comparisons.   Also…..if you’d like to have me speak about Medicare … go to the website…  www.TheMedicareNation.com and click on the Contact tab and send me your information. I’ve already started booking speaking engagements for the Annual Enrollment Period…. Starting in October…so contact me now to schedule me for your corporation or event.   Thanks for listening to Medicare Nation! I appreciate your loyalty and referrals. Until next time…. I want YOU to have a Peaceful, Happy & Prosperous Week!   Diane            

Is ColoGuard Covered Under Medicare?

Hey Medicare Nation! <a href= "http://www.TheMedicareNation.com">www.TheMedicareNation.com</a> I'm not an expert on Reverse Mortgages......in fact, I don't know much about them. I have heard about Reverse Mortgages on commercials, in newspapers and on FaceBook feeds. I never had the need to learn about Reverse Mortgages, so...... I never did......until...... a client asked me about them. When a client asks me a question about Medicare..... I know the answer. I'm a Medicare Expert....I'm in the business of knowing as much as I can about Medicare.  Because my clients trust me with their Medicare needs and concerns, they ask me all kinds of questions. When I know the answer.... I tell them. When I don't know the answer..... I get the answer for them! So....when my client asked me about Reverse Mortgages.... I started reading about them. When I was introduced to Michael Banner, <a href= "https://www.professionalmortgagealliance.com/">President of Professional Mortgage Alliance, LLC,</a> I had many, many questions. Michael Banner was very patient and answered every question I had..... truthfully. An hour and a half later..... I had a much better idea about reverse mortgages, and I invited Michael Banner to come onto <a href= "http://www.TheMedicareNation.com">The Medicare Nation Podcast</a> to share his knowledge with our Medicare Beneficiaries and Sandwich Generation! Here are the highlights of my interview with Michael Banner: * What is a Reverse Mortgage? *  Do I pay a higher intersest rate with a Reverse Mortgage? *  If I "Will" my home to my children.... what happens to the      Reverse Mortgage? *  What is a Non-Recourse Loan? * What does it mean if the value of my house is "upside              down?" *  What is No-Debt Service? *  Is a Reverse Mortgage Safe? *  If a person leaves the home to live in an assisted living          facility, what happens to the Reverse Mortgage? *  Can a person "out live" a Reverse Mortgage? * What are the "5 Ways" payments are made with a Reverse     Mortgage? Want to learn more about Reverse Mortgages? Reach out to Michael Banner at : <a href= "mailto:MBanner@PMAnow.com">MBanner@PMAnow.com</a> Website for Professional Mortgage Alliance, LLC <a href= "https://www.professionalmortgagealliance.com/">Professional Mortgage Alliance</a> Michael Banner's Phone Number -  (727) 224 - 3859 Where to purchase Michael Banner's Book - <a href= "mailto:MBanner@PMAnow.com">MBanner@PMAnow.com</a>   The 62 Who Knew Show <a href= "http://www.WeBeamTV.com">www.WeBeamTV.com</a>   Have Questions About Medicare? Send me an email to - <a href= "mailto:Support@TheMedicareNation.com">Support@TheMedicareNation.com</a> If you'd like to hire me as a Medicare Consultant, starting  June 1, 2019.... my rate is $199.00 an hour.  Contact me by either email at .... <a href= "mailto:Support@TheMedicareNation.com">Support@TheMedicareNation.com</a> or ... call me ..... 855 - 855 - 7266. Thanks for listening to Medicare Nation! SUBSCRIBE to Medicare Nation and get the latest episodes delivered to you! Give us a Rating & Review on iTunes! This helps others find Medicare Nation so that they can have their Medicare questions answered too! <a href= "http://www.TheMedicareNation.com">www.TheMedicareNation.com</a> Until next time.... have a happy, peaceful & prosperous week! Diane Daniels

Hey Medicare Nation! www.TheMedicareNation.com I'm not an expert on Reverse Mortgages......in fact, I don't know much about them. I have heard about Reverse Mortgages on commercials, in newspapers and on FaceBook feeds. I never had the need to learn about Reverse Mortgages, so...... I never did......until...... a client asked me about them. When a client asks me a question about Medicare..... I know the answer. I'm a Medicare Expert....I'm in the business of knowing as much as I can about Medicare.  Because my clients trust me with their Medicare needs and concerns, they ask me all kinds of questions. When I know the answer.... I tell them. When I don't know the answer..... I get the answer for them! So....when my client asked me about Reverse Mortgages.... I started reading about them. When I was introduced to Michael Banner, President of Professional Mortgage Alliance, LLC, I had many, many questions. Michael Banner was very patient and answered every question I had..... truthfully. An hour and a half later..... I had a much better idea about reverse mortgages, and I invited Michael Banner to come onto The Medicare Nation Podcast to share his knowledge with our Medicare Beneficiaries and Sandwich Generation! Here are the highlights of my interview with Michael Banner: * What is a Reverse Mortgage? *  Do I pay a higher intersest rate with a Reverse Mortgage? *  If I "Will" my home to my children.... what happens to the      Reverse Mortgage? *  What is a Non-Recourse Loan? * What does it mean if the value of my house is "upside              down?" *  What is No-Debt Service? *  Is a Reverse Mortgage Safe? *  If a person leaves the home to live in an assisted living          facility, what happens to the Reverse Mortgage? *  Can a person "out live" a Reverse Mortgage? * What are the "5 Ways" payments are made with a Reverse     Mortgage? Want to learn more about Reverse Mortgages? Reach out to Michael Banner at : MBanner@PMAnow.com Website for Professional Mortgage Alliance, LLC Professional Mortgage Alliance Michael Banner's Phone Number -  (727) 224 - 3859 Where to purchase Michael Banner's Book - MBanner@PMAnow.com   The 62 Who Knew Show www.WeBeamTV.com   Have Questions About Medicare? Send me an email to - Support@TheMedicareNation.com If you'd like to hire me as a Medicare Consultant, starting  June 1, 2019.... my rate is $199.00 an hour.  Contact me by either email at .... Support@TheMedicareNation.com or ... call me ..... 855 - 855 - 7266. Thanks for listening to Medicare Nation! SUBSCRIBE to Medicare Nation and get the latest episodes delivered to you! Give us a Rating & Review on iTunes! This helps others find Medicare Nation so that they can have their Medicare questions answered too! www.TheMedicareNation.com Until next time.... have a happy, peaceful & prosperous week! Diane Daniels

Are Reverse Mortgages A Scam? MN 091

Hey Medicare Nation! <a href= "http://www.TheMedicareNation.com">www.TheMedicareNation.com</a> On the Last episode.....I spoke to you about Medicare Supplement Plan "F" and High Deductible Plan F. Today....I'm going to talk about Medicare Supplement Plan "G" and Plan "N" Plan "G" allows you to "purchase" an insurance policy, where you pay a monthly premium to the carrier...... in return...... Medicare Supplement Plan G, will pay ALL your Medically necessary out-of-pocket deductibles, co-insurance and co-pays...... EXCEPT for ..... The Annual Part B Deductible. YOU will be responsible for the Annual Part B deductible each year. Currently.... in 2019, the Annual Part B Deductible is $185.00. So..... when you seek medical care in the beginning of the year.... you will pay out-of-pocket until you hit the $185.00 Part B Deductible. After you pay the $185.00 Part B Deductible....you will NOT be responsible for ANY other deductibles, co-pays or co-insurance under Medicare Supplement Plan G, that are medically necessary under Medicare. Plan "N" allows you to "purchase" an insurance policy, where you pay a monthly premium to the carrier...... in return...... Medicare Supplement Plan N, will pay ALL your Medically necessary out-of-pocket deductibles, co-insurance and co-pays...... EXCEPT for ..... 1. The Annual Part B Deductible ($185.00 in 2019) 2. A co-pay of up to $20.00 for each doctor visit. 3. A co-pay of $50.00 if you go to the Emergency Room and you are "Discharged" from the Emergency Room. If you are "admitted" to the hospital from the ER... you will NOT incur a $50.00 co-pay. If you have paid all of your Part B Deductible, you will have NO other out-of-pocket costs while you are an inpatient in the hospital. 4. If you seek treatment, testing or diagnostic testing from a physician or facility that does NOT accept Medicare, you WILL be responsible for 100% of the cost of that service. The provider or facility can legally charge you 15% above and beyond the Medicare Allowable charge. It is vital that you always ask prior to receiving care, a test or doctor visit....if the physician or facility "accepts Medicare."  If they do.....your charges are outlined above. If they do not accept Medicare..... you may be responsible for ALL of the charges, up to 15% of the Medicare Allowable charge. ASK BEFORE YOU SEE A DR or RECEIVE TREATMENT! Prices for Medicare Supplements VARY by zipcode! Get quotes from MANY different insurance carriers prior to enrolling in a plan. You could save hundreds....sometimes over a thousand dollars a year! HAVE a Question for ME? Send it to me at  <a href= "mailto:Support@TheMedicareNation.com">Support@TheMedicareNation.com</a> I will answer ALL emails I receive.... personally! If the answer to your question will take me more than 1 paragraph to answer... or .... it is necessary to do some research for you in order to answer the question.... I will respond and advise you to hire me as your consultant. Many of your questions may be answered on the official Medicare website - <a href= "http://www.Medicare.gov">www.Medicare.gov</a> Always do YOUR Due Dilligence before you enroll in a Medicare Plan! Consider leaving a review & rating on the Medicare Nation Podcast page in iTunes.  <a href= "http://nation.reviews/medicare8">http://nation.reviews/medicare8</a>   Thanks for listening to Medicare Nation! Show your Parents how to "Subscribe" to Medicare Nation. With over 100 episodes... most of their questions will be answered by listening to my episodes. This way... your parents are NOT bothering YOU for information about Medicare! Enjoy time for yourself and your family! Teach people how to "subscribe" to Medicare Nation! YOU will be responsible for the Annual Part B deductible each year.

Hey Medicare Nation! www.TheMedicareNation.com On the Last episode.....I spoke to you about Medicare Supplement Plan "F" and High Deductible Plan F. Today....I'm going to talk about Medicare Supplement Plan "G" and Plan "N" Plan "G" allows you to "purchase" an insurance policy, where you pay a monthly premium to the carrier...... in return...... Medicare Supplement Plan G, will pay ALL your Medically necessary out-of-pocket deductibles, co-insurance and co-pays...... EXCEPT for ..... The Annual Part B Deductible. YOU will be responsible for the Annual Part B deductible each year. Currently.... in 2019, the Annual Part B Deductible is $185.00. So..... when you seek medical care in the beginning of the year.... you will pay out-of-pocket until you hit the $185.00 Part B Deductible. After you pay the $185.00 Part B Deductible....you will NOT be responsible for ANY other deductibles, co-pays or co-insurance under Medicare Supplement Plan G, that are medically necessary under Medicare. Plan "N" allows you to "purchase" an insurance policy, where you pay a monthly premium to the carrier...... in return...... Medicare Supplement Plan N, will pay ALL your Medically necessary out-of-pocket deductibles, co-insurance and co-pays...... EXCEPT for ..... 1. The Annual Part B Deductible ($185.00 in 2019) 2. A co-pay of up to $20.00 for each doctor visit. 3. A co-pay of $50.00 if you go to the Emergency Room and you are "Discharged" from the Emergency Room. If you are "admitted" to the hospital from the ER... you will NOT incur a $50.00 co-pay. If you have paid all of your Part B Deductible, you will have NO other out-of-pocket costs while you are an inpatient in the hospital. 4. If you seek treatment, testing or diagnostic testing from a physician or facility that does NOT accept Medicare, you WILL be responsible for 100% of the cost of that service. The provider or facility can legally charge you 15% above and beyond the Medicare Allowable charge. It is vital that you always ask prior to receiving care, a test or doctor visit....if the physician or facility "accepts Medicare."  If they do.....your charges are outlined above. If they do not accept Medicare..... you may be responsible for ALL of the charges, up to 15% of the Medicare Allowable charge. ASK BEFORE YOU SEE A DR or RECEIVE TREATMENT! Prices for Medicare Supplements VARY by zipcode! Get quotes from MANY different insurance carriers prior to enrolling in a plan. You could save hundreds....sometimes over a thousand dollars a year! HAVE a Question for ME? Send it to me at  Support@TheMedicareNation.com I will answer ALL emails I receive.... personally! If the answer to your question will take me more than 1 paragraph to answer... or .... it is necessary to do some research for you in order to answer the question.... I will respond and advise you to hire me as your consultant. Many of your questions may be answered on the official Medicare website - www.Medicare.gov Always do YOUR Due Dilligence before you enroll in a Medicare Plan! Consider leaving a review & rating on the Medicare Nation Podcast page in iTunes.  http://nation.reviews/medicare8   Thanks for listening to Medicare Nation! Show your Parents how to "Subscribe" to Medicare Nation. With over 100 episodes... most of their questions will be answered by listening to my episodes. This way... your parents are NOT bothering YOU for information about Medicare! Enjoy time for yourself and your family! Teach people how to "subscribe" to Medicare Nation! YOU will be responsible for the Annual Part B deductible each year.

What's The Difference Between Medicare Supp Plan "G" & Plan "N"

Hey Medicare Nation! <a href= "http://www.TheMedicareNation.com">www.TheMedicareNation.com</a> More than 10,000 people a day are turning 65! While qualifying for Medicare Part A and Part B, Medicare Beneficiaries are VERY confused as to what type of plan to enroll in, to "supplement" Original Medicare. By zipcode, a Medicare Beneficiary may have over "100 Plans" to choose from to help supplement their Original Medicare. That's an ENORMOUS amount of research to do!                  If you have the time and enjoy doing all that research.......go for it! If you're like most Medicare Beneficiaries, you are retiring and you want to ENJOY LIFE! You don't want to "waste" time researching Medicare Plans. Call a "Medicare Consultant" or "Medicare Specialist" to assist you in finding the plan that will fit YOUR unique needs. How do you do that?  "Google" "Medicare Consultant" or "Medicare Specialist" and add your city or zipcode to that search. As an example, you would search....Medicare Consultant Tampa FL......or........Medicare Specialist Dallas TX....... Google will then populate the "Ads" first. Businesses PAY to be on the top of the 1st page of Google. SCROLL down past the "ADS." Just because a business "Pays" for an ad DOES NOT mean they are the best option for you. You will start seeing local businesses and names of Medicare Specilaists.  You should be checking out these "Brokers" and "Medicare Specialists" or "Medicare Consultants." I'm speaking specifically about Medi-Gap Plan F and the High Deductible F Plan. The Supplement F Plan to Medicare, is an Insurance Policy you take out on yourself. Medi-gap Plans are NOT part of Medicare. Medi-Gap Plans are an insurance policy that an Insurance Carrier sells to you. You are "purchasing" a policy, where you pay a monthly premium to the Insurance Carrier to protect some or all of  your out-of-pocket costs associated with Medicare. Medi-Gap "F" Plan pays the out-of-pocket costs YOU are responsible for. The "F" Plan will pay your "medically necessary" out-of-pocket costs. Plan F pays for your Part A In-Patient Hospital Deductible. Plan F pays your co-pay for being in a Skilled Nursing Facility. Plan F pays your Annual Part B deductible and Plan F pays your 20% co-insurance under Part B. Plan F pays for all of this, for one monthly premium. ALL Medicare Plan F Plans have EXACTLY the same benefits. It doesn't matter if you live in Tampa, FL......San Francisco, CA.....or Salt Lake City, Utah.....The BENEFITS under Plan F are the SAME! What IS different..is the MONTHLY PREMIUM! In YOUR ZipCode.......there may be up to 50 DIFFERENT Insurance Carriers that offer Plan F....EACH one of those Insurance Carriers offer a DIFFERENT Premium for the SAME Plan F Plan. You should find the LOWEST Monthly Premium from the Insurance Carrier that has an "A" Financial Rating. An "A" financial rating means the company WILL pay your claims. That's the Insurance Carrier your looking for. Plan F is the "Peace of Mind" Medi-Gap Plan. There is NO Network of Doctors and Facilities....because......Plan F is NOT part of Medicare.  Original Medicare has NO Network.....Original Medicare allows you to see ANY Doctor....or go to ANY Medical Facility in the U.S. that ACCEPTS Medicare! YOUR Health Insurance IS......Original Medicare.....NOT your Plan F! So.....if you're looking for a Medicare Supplement Plan that will cover ALL your Medicare Necessary out-of-pocket costs...Then Plan F is for you. Now.....let's take a look at the High Deductile F Plan. The High Deductible F Plan.....has a DEDUCTIBLE! For 2019.....the annual deductible is $2,300.00 That means......you WILL pay-out-of-pocket until......you reach the $2,300 DEDUCTIBLE. When you reach the $2,300 deductible, the plan will then pay all your "medically necessary" out-of-pocket costs that you are responsible for under Medicare, for the remainder of the calendar year. You will NOT pay the "Cash" price......you will be paying the Medicare Allowable price....BIG difference. If you go to a cardiologist, and the visit under Medicare, costs a total of $150, Medicare will pay 80% of that amount.... which is $120. you would pay the remaining 20%, which $30. You would continue to pay out-of-pocket until you reach $2,300. If you don't see many doctors or have any diagnostic tests, you will ONLY pay for the services you use. For a healthy person, this could be a very viable option. If you are a person with a chronic illness, let's say for example...Diabetes......Asthma.....or high cholesterol with high blood pressure.....this plan may NOT be a good choice for you. It's important for you to take into consideration your own health history, what medications you take, your financial status and what doctors you see, before enrolling in a Medicare Plan. Next time, I will go over the differences between Plan G and PLan N. If you are turning 65....or.....you are getting ready to come off of your employer plan and you need to figure out what Medicare Plan will suit your needs best..... Contact Me! Reach out to me by email - <a href= "mailto:Support@TheMedicareNation.com">Support@TheMedicareNation.com</a> or..... by phone....... (855) 855 - 7266. I will help you find the plan that fits YOUR unique needs. Go to my website..... <a href= "http://www.TheMedicareNation.com">www.TheMedicareNation.com</a> for more information. Until next time.....have a very happy, a very healthy and Prosperous week!   Diane Daniels

Hey Medicare Nation! www.TheMedicareNation.com More than 10,000 people a day are turning 65! While qualifying for Medicare Part A and Part B, Medicare Beneficiaries are VERY confused as to what type of plan to enroll in, to "supplement" Original Medicare. By zipcode, a Medicare Beneficiary may have over "100 Plans" to choose from to help supplement their Original Medicare. That's an ENORMOUS amount of research to do!                  If you have the time and enjoy doing all that research.......go for it! If you're like most Medicare Beneficiaries, you are retiring and you want to ENJOY LIFE! You don't want to "waste" time researching Medicare Plans. Call a "Medicare Consultant" or "Medicare Specialist" to assist you in finding the plan that will fit YOUR unique needs. How do you do that?  "Google" "Medicare Consultant" or "Medicare Specialist" and add your city or zipcode to that search. As an example, you would search....Medicare Consultant Tampa FL......or........Medicare Specialist Dallas TX....... Google will then populate the "Ads" first. Businesses PAY to be on the top of the 1st page of Google. SCROLL down past the "ADS." Just because a business "Pays" for an ad DOES NOT mean they are the best option for you. You will start seeing local businesses and names of Medicare Specilaists.  You should be checking out these "Brokers" and "Medicare Specialists" or "Medicare Consultants." I'm speaking specifically about Medi-Gap Plan F and the High Deductible F Plan. The Supplement F Plan to Medicare, is an Insurance Policy you take out on yourself. Medi-gap Plans are NOT part of Medicare. Medi-Gap Plans are an insurance policy that an Insurance Carrier sells to you. You are "purchasing" a policy, where you pay a monthly premium to the Insurance Carrier to protect some or all of  your out-of-pocket costs associated with Medicare. Medi-Gap "F" Plan pays the out-of-pocket costs YOU are responsible for. The "F" Plan will pay your "medically necessary" out-of-pocket costs. Plan F pays for your Part A In-Patient Hospital Deductible. Plan F pays your co-pay for being in a Skilled Nursing Facility. Plan F pays your Annual Part B deductible and Plan F pays your 20% co-insurance under Part B. Plan F pays for all of this, for one monthly premium. ALL Medicare Plan F Plans have EXACTLY the same benefits. It doesn't matter if you live in Tampa, FL......San Francisco, CA.....or Salt Lake City, Utah.....The BENEFITS under Plan F are the SAME! What IS different..is the MONTHLY PREMIUM! In YOUR ZipCode.......there may be up to 50 DIFFERENT Insurance Carriers that offer Plan F....EACH one of those Insurance Carriers offer a DIFFERENT Premium for the SAME Plan F Plan. You should find the LOWEST Monthly Premium from the Insurance Carrier that has an "A" Financial Rating. An "A" financial rating means the company WILL pay your claims. That's the Insurance Carrier your looking for. Plan F is the "Peace of Mind" Medi-Gap Plan. There is NO Network of Doctors and Facilities....because......Plan F is NOT part of Medicare.  Original Medicare has NO Network.....Original Medicare allows you to see ANY Doctor....or go to ANY Medical Facility in the U.S. that ACCEPTS Medicare! YOUR Health Insurance IS......Original Medicare.....NOT your Plan F! So.....if you're looking for a Medicare Supplement Plan that will cover ALL your Medicare Necessary out-of-pocket costs...Then Plan F is for you. Now.....let's take a look at the High Deductile F Plan. The High Deductible F Plan.....has a DEDUCTIBLE! For 2019.....the annual deductible is $2,300.00 That means......you WILL pay-out-of-pocket until......you reach the $2,300 DEDUCTIBLE. When you reach the $2,300 deductible, the plan will then pay all your "medically necessary" out-of-pocket costs that you are responsible for under Medicare, for the remainder of the calendar year. You will NOT pay the "Cash" price......you will be paying the Medicare Allowable price....BIG difference. If you go to a cardiologist, and the visit under Medicare, costs a total of $150, Medicare will pay 80% of that amount.... which is $120. you would pay the remaining 20%, which $30. You would continue to pay out-of-pocket until you reach $2,300. If you don't see many doctors or have any diagnostic tests, you will ONLY pay for the services you use. For a healthy person, this could be a very viable option. If you are a person with a chronic illness, let's say for example...Diabetes......Asthma.....or high cholesterol with high blood pressure.....this plan may NOT be a good choice for you. It's important for you to take into consideration your own health history, what medications you take, your financial status and what doctors you see, before enrolling in a Medicare Plan. Next time, I will go over the differences between Plan G and PLan N. If you are turning 65....or.....you are getting ready to come off of your employer plan and you need to figure out what Medicare Plan will suit your needs best..... Contact Me! Reach out to me by email - Support@TheMedicareNation.com or..... by phone....... (855) 855 - 7266. I will help you find the plan that fits YOUR unique needs. Go to my website..... www.TheMedicareNation.com for more information. Until next time.....have a very happy, a very healthy and Prosperous week!   Diane Daniels  

MN089 What's The Difference Between Plan F & High Deductible Plan F

Hey Medicare Nation! <a href= "http://www.TheMedicareNation.com">www.TheMedicareNation.com</a> It's almost Spring time! For many people, this has been a terrible winter. Many Medicare Nation listeners have been emailing me to find out if Medicare covers "Emergencies" while traveling across the U.S. or abroad. That's a great question! Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage Plans Do cover "Emergency Care" AND  Urgent Care ANYWHERE in the United States and it's Territories. An "Emergency" is Life-Threatening. An example would be if you were having chest pain and you believed you were having a heart attack. In this situation.....you would go to the nearest hospital to seek emergency care. Even if it turns out you were diagnosed with "heart burn," Original Medicare AND Medicare Advantage plans will cover the medically necessary treatment for this situation because you believed you were in a "life-threatening" situation.  "Urgent Care" is defined by Medicare as: <div class="views-field views-field-body"> <div class="field-content"> Care that you get outside of your Medicare health plan's service area for a sudden illness or injury that needs medical care right away but isn’t life threatening. If it’s not safe to wait until you get home to get care from a plan doctor, the health plan must pay for the care. An "Urgent Care" example would be if you were walking in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, and you slipped on a banana peel and fell onto the ground, breaking your ankle. That's an injury that isn't life threatening, but requires immediate medical care. So......if you are traveling ANYWHERE in the U.S. or it's Territories, AND you have an Urgent Care or Emergency situation.....you can go to the nearest hospital or Urgent Care Center to receive care AND it will be covered by Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage Plans. If you are traveling outside of the U.S. Medicare generally DOES NOT cover emergencies or urgent care needs. There are a few circumstances where Original Medicare WILL cover Emergency Care AND Urgent Care. <a href= "http://www.TheMedicareNation.com">www.TheMedicareNation.com</a> 1.  If you are on a CRUISE and you require EMERGENCY care from a doctor who is stationed on the ship while the ship is in a U.S. port.....Your Emergency Care WILL be covered by Original Medicare. 2. If the ship is Departing or Arriving to/from a U.S. port within 6 hours and you have a medical emergency and require to be treated by the ship's doctor......Your Emergency Care will be covered by Original Medicare. 3. If you are in Alaska and you are traveling directly to another State without unreasonable delay, and you require Emergency Care at a hospital in Canada, because it was the closest hospital at the time of the emergency......Your Emergency Care will be covered by Original Medicare. If you have a "Medicare Advantage Plan," you may have coverage for Emergency and/or Urgent Care Coverage on your plan. You must do your own due dilligence to understand the benefits of your plan while you are traveling abroad. Some Medicare Advantage Plans have a deductible for emergency care outside the U.S. Some Medicare Advantage Plans have a deductible and a co-pay for emergency care outside the U.S. There is an annual maximum out-of-pocket amount for your plan. Some are around $1,500.00 all the way up to $6,700.00  READ Your Plan's EVIDENCE OF COVERAGE Booklet. Some of you have "Medi-Gap" or Supplement to Original Medicare Plans. Plans "C" through "G" and also plan "M" and "N" have coverage for Emergency Care while traveling abroad. Some Medi-Gap plans have a deductible. Some plans have "Maximum Lifetime Amounts." It is important to READ your Medi-Gap Policy to determine coverage while traveling abroad. Travel Insurance <a href= "http://www.TheMedicareNation.com">www.TheMedicareNation.com</a>   I always recommend purchasing "Travel Insurance," while traveling abroad. I use these different websites to look for policies: 1. <a href= "http://www.TravelGuard.com">www.TravelGuard.com</a> 2. <a href= "http://www.AllianzTravelInsurance.com">www.AllianzTravelInsurance.com</a> 3. <a href= "http://www.TravelInsurance.com">www.TravelInsurance.com</a> Cost will depend on - a. Total Cost of the Trip b. Your Age c. What country you're visiting d. Types of coverage you're adding (ex: Air evacuation, cancel for any reason etc.) If you have ANY questions, and I can answer your question in ONE paragrapn, send them to me by email. <a href= "mailto:Support@TheMedicareNation.com">Support@TheMedicareNation.com</a> If I need to do research or write more than one paragraph, I will let you know that I am available for a consultation to solve your problem at $150.00 an hour. Reach out to me.....I answer all emails personally! Thanks soo much for listening to Medicare Nation! I appreciate your time and I love to educate you on all things Medicare! Diane Daniels   </div> </div>

Hey Medicare Nation! www.TheMedicareNation.com It's almost Spring time! For many people, this has been a terrible winter. Many Medicare Nation listeners have been emailing me to find out if Medicare covers "Emergencies" while traveling across the U.S. or abroad. That's a great question! Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage Plans Do cover "Emergency Care" AND  Urgent Care ANYWHERE in the United States and it's Territories. An "Emergency" is Life-Threatening. An example would be if you were having chest pain and you believed you were having a heart attack. In this situation.....you would go to the nearest hospital to seek emergency care. Even if it turns out you were diagnosed with "heart burn," Original Medicare AND Medicare Advantage plans will cover the medically necessary treatment for this situation because you believed you were in a "life-threatening" situation.  "Urgent Care" is defined by Medicare as: Care that you get outside of your Medicare health plan's service area for a sudden illness or injury that needs medical care right away but isn’t life threatening. If it’s not safe to wait until you get home to get care from a plan doctor, the health plan must pay for the care. An "Urgent Care" example would be if you were walking in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, and you slipped on a banana peel and fell onto the ground, breaking your ankle. That's an injury that isn't life threatening, but requires immediate medical care. So......if you are traveling ANYWHERE in the U.S. or it's Territories, AND you have an Urgent Care or Emergency situation.....you can go to the nearest hospital or Urgent Care Center to receive care AND it will be covered by Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage Plans. If you are traveling outside of the U.S. Medicare generally DOES NOT cover emergencies or urgent care needs. There are a few circumstances where Original Medicare WILL cover Emergency Care AND Urgent Care. www.TheMedicareNation.com 1.  If you are on a CRUISE and you require EMERGENCY care from a doctor who is stationed on the ship while the ship is in a U.S. port.....Your Emergency Care WILL be covered by Original Medicare. 2. If the ship is Departing or Arriving to/from a U.S. port within 6 hours and you have a medical emergency and require to be treated by the ship's doctor......Your Emergency Care will be covered by Original Medicare. 3. If you are in Alaska and you are traveling directly to another State without unreasonable delay, and you require Emergency Care at a hospital in Canada, because it was the closest hospital at the time of the emergency......Your Emergency Care will be covered by Original Medicare. If you have a "Medicare Advantage Plan," you may have coverage for Emergency and/or Urgent Care Coverage on your plan. You must do your own due dilligence to understand the benefits of your plan while you are traveling abroad. Some Medicare Advantage Plans have a deductible for emergency care outside the U.S. Some Medicare Advantage Plans have a deductible and a co-pay for emergency care outside the U.S. There is an annual maximum out-of-pocket amount for your plan. Some are around $1,500.00 all the way up to $6,700.00  READ Your Plan's EVIDENCE OF COVERAGE Booklet. Some of you have "Medi-Gap" or Supplement to Original Medicare Plans. Plans "C" through "G" and also plan "M" and "N" have coverage for Emergency Care while traveling abroad. Some Medi-Gap plans have a deductible. Some plans have "Maximum Lifetime Amounts." It is important to READ your Medi-Gap Policy to determine coverage while traveling abroad. Travel Insurance www.TheMedicareNation.com   I always recommend purchasing "Travel Insurance," while traveling abroad. I use these different websites to look for policies: 1. www.TravelGuard.com 2. www.AllianzTravelInsurance.com 3. www.TravelInsurance.com Cost will depend on - a. Total Cost of the Trip b. Your Age c. What country you're visiting d. Types of coverage you're adding (ex: Air evacuation, cancel for any reason etc.) If you have ANY questions, and I can answer your question in ONE paragrapn, send them to me by email. Support@TheMedicareNation.com If I need to do research or write more than one paragraph, I will let you know that I am available for a consultation to solve your problem at $150.00 an hour. Reach out to me.....I answer all emails personally! Thanks soo much for listening to Medicare Nation! I appreciate your time and I love to educate you on all things Medicare! Diane Daniels    

Does Medicare Pay For Emergency Care While Traveling?

Hey Medicare Nation! <a href= "htpps://www.TheMedicareNation.com">htpps://www.TheMedicareNation.com</a>   Today, I'm going to speak with you about the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period. CMS...Centers For Medicare & Medicaid Services has issued a new regulation that began January 1, 2019. Under 42 CFR 422.62(a)(3)....CMS published the following: During the MA OEP, MA plan enrolles may enroll in another MA plan or disenroll from their MA plan and return to Original Medicare. Individuals may make only one election during the MA OEP. Who can use the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period? 1. Individuals enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans as of January 1. 2. New Medicare beneficiaries who are enrolled in an Medicare Advantage plan during their Initial enrollment into Medicare       a. The month of entitlement to Part A and Part B up until the last day of the 3rd month...after the month of their entitlement to Part A and Part B. Can Medicare Advantage beneficiaries add or drop their Part D coverage during the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period? Yes. Individuals who are already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan with Prescription Drug Coverage can switch to: a. Another Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plan b. A Medicare Advantage Plan ONLY (with NO prescription drug coverage) c. Go back to "Original Medicare" and add a stand-alone prescription drug plan or don't add one. d. Go back to "Original Medicare" and add a Supplement to Original Medicare Plan.     How long is the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period? It runs from January 1st through March 31st each year.   How many times may a Medicare Beneficiary change Medicare Advantage Plans during the MA OEP? A Medicare Beneficiary may make only ONE change during the MA OEP.   If you have ANY questions regarding the MA OEP.... and you would like me to answer it in ONE paragraph, send me an email to  <a href= "mailto:Support@TheMedicareNation.com">Support@TheMedicareNation.com</a> I ALWAYS answer emails if I can answer them in ONE paragraph. If I can not answer your question in one paragraph, you may hire me and I charge $150.00 hr. I can answer ANY question about Medicare and I can solve ANY problem you have with Medicare. Looking for more information on Medicare? Go to <a href= "http://www.TheMedicareNation.com">www.TheMedicareNation.com</a>  website. Looking for a SPEAKER at your conference or event? Just click on the "Contact" tab on the website.   Thank you so much for listening to Medicare Nation. I appreciate it very much! If you feel I'm delivering important content, I would love it if you would leave a rating & review on the Apple Podcasts review page (formerly iTunes). Until next time Nation.....I want each of you to have a Happy, Peaceful and Prosperous week! Diane Daniels

Hey Medicare Nation! htpps://www.TheMedicareNation.com   Today, I'm going to speak with you about the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period. CMS...Centers For Medicare & Medicaid Services has issued a new regulation that began January 1, 2019. Under 42 CFR 422.62(a)(3)....CMS published the following: During the MA OEP, MA plan enrolles may enroll in another MA plan or disenroll from their MA plan and return to Original Medicare. Individuals may make only one election during the MA OEP. Who can use the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period? 1. Individuals enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans as of January 1. 2. New Medicare beneficiaries who are enrolled in an Medicare Advantage plan during their Initial enrollment into Medicare       a. The month of entitlement to Part A and Part B up until the last day of the 3rd month...after the month of their entitlement to Part A and Part B. Can Medicare Advantage beneficiaries add or drop their Part D coverage during the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period? Yes. Individuals who are already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan with Prescription Drug Coverage can switch to: a. Another Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plan b. A Medicare Advantage Plan ONLY (with NO prescription drug coverage) c. Go back to "Original Medicare" and add a stand-alone prescription drug plan or don't add one. d. Go back to "Original Medicare" and add a Supplement to Original Medicare Plan.     How long is the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period? It runs from January 1st through March 31st each year.   How many times may a Medicare Beneficiary change Medicare Advantage Plans during the MA OEP? A Medicare Beneficiary may make only ONE change during the MA OEP.   If you have ANY questions regarding the MA OEP.... and you would like me to answer it in ONE paragraph, send me an email to  Support@TheMedicareNation.com I ALWAYS answer emails if I can answer them in ONE paragraph. If I can not answer your question in one paragraph, you may hire me and I charge $150.00 hr. I can answer ANY question about Medicare and I can solve ANY problem you have with Medicare. Looking for more information on Medicare? Go to www.TheMedicareNation.com  website. Looking for a SPEAKER at your conference or event? Just click on the "Contact" tab on the website.   Thank you so much for listening to Medicare Nation. I appreciate it very much! If you feel I'm delivering important content, I would love it if you would leave a rating & review on the Apple Podcasts review page (formerly iTunes). Until next time Nation.....I want each of you to have a Happy, Peaceful and Prosperous week! Diane Daniels

Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period is NOW!

How much would you pay out-of-pocket for a five day hospital stay on Medicare? The majority of people have no idea! The problem with Medicare is there is too much information. An overwhelming amount of information and not enough resources. Medicare Nation solves that problem by educating you about all the things you want to know about Medicare, because there are not enough resources out there! This podcast will educate you about the components of Medicare, the different categories of Medicare Plans and Medicare benefits. On other episodes I’ll interview expert guests in the health and wellness field, about diseases, Medicare issues and current changes to the Medicare program. Medicare Nation is dedicated to answering all your questions about Medicare. Expert information and insights regarding Medicare and you! Further information can be found on www.callsamm.com Give us feedback on Facebook! www.facebook.com/MedicareNation

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