Review Medicare Plan options that may be available to you

Mammograms are one of the best tools for early detection of breast cancer, and being proactive about getting your annual mammogram after you turn 40 is critical for your overall health. While there are certain instances in which you may have to pay out-of-pocket, Medicare Part B and many Medicare Advantage plans both cover 100% of annual mammogram screening costs. Learn more about Medicare coverage for mammograms.

If you are on Medicare and have been referred for a colonoscopy, you may have questions about whether your plan will pay for the test. The answer is yes, but there are some limits to how often and when Medicare will cover a colonoscopy. In some cases, you may need to undergo earlier tests or preventive measures.

All recipients of Social Security disability benefits can also receive Medicare coverage two years after they are eligible for monthly disability benefits. Some individuals, however, can get Medicare coverage sooner depending on their situation. Here’s a guide to help you navigate disability and Medicare coverage. 

Each year, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) releases cost changes related to Medicare premiums, deductibles, Medicare Advantage plans and prescription drug plans. By presenting these updates before the Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug Plan Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), CMS helps Medicare enrollees determine the right kind of coverage for their needs.

It’s easy to be overwhelmed with the barrage of information during this time of year, so here are a few tips to help you navigate this year’s Annual Enrollment Period. 

More older Americans are working after age 65 than ever before. Some do it for financial reasons. The added income helps defray health care and other living expenses. Others do it for social and intellectual benefits. Regardless of why you may decide to continue working past age 65, you can receive Medicare benefits while you’re still working. Here’s how Medicare works when you’re not retired.

The open enrollment period for Medicare runs from October 15 to December 7. Each year during this time, you can switch your plan to one that covers the services you need best. It is a good time to make changes to your current plan. For example, you can change from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage, and vice versa. You can also add supplemental coverage plans or change to other Medicare Advantage plans.

Even a small mistake in your Medicare Open Enrollment choice can have a year-long impact, resulting in added premiums or out-of-pocket costs. Choosing the wrong Medicare plan could also impact your access to needed hospital and medical coverage or limit your choices in the type of care you receive. Here’s what you need to know.

Medicare Open Enrollment (also known as Medicare Fall Open Enrollment or Medicare Annual Election Period) runs from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7. During this time, you can make changes to your existing Medicare health and drug coverage.The key to maximizing this yearly open enrollment opportunity starts with knowing your options.