What You should Know About Washington Senior Health
Washington Medicare Explained
No matter where you live or what type of health insurance you have, it is important to understand the specifics of your coverage. Everyone wants to receive the lowest price they can for the highest quality product. This is even truer for seniors as many of them live in a fixed income. The following information should help you gain an understanding of the different parts of Washington Medicare that is available for seniors.
Washington Medicare Parts A Through B
The original Medicare benefit is referred to as Part A. Anyone eligible for Medicare Part A is automatically enrolled at no charge. Part A includes coverage for inpatient hospital stays.
Part B is optional coverage that is offered to people enrolled in Part A. There is a premium charged for Part B coverage. It covers things such as outpatient health care, visits to the doctor and some costs incurred by physical therapy. A person must elect to enroll in Part B. It covers 80% of approved coverage and the patient is responsible for paying the additional 20%.
Part C is a program that offers coverage equal to Part A and Part B but in one plan. Beneficiaries are charged a monthly premium and must enroll electively. It is more expensive than Part B but offers comprehensive coverage under one plan. Some people find it more convenient to have all of their coverage under one plan. It is similar to private insurance.
Part D is strictly for prescription coverage. It is also optional and people who want to take advantage of its coverage must enroll in it separately than the other Medicare coverages. There is a monthly fee associated with Medicare Part D coverage. This is the newest plan , already being offered to millions of eligible seniors enrolled in Medicare.
*You may be able to get extra help to pay for your prescription drug premiums and costs. To see if you qualify for getting extra help, call:
- 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY/TDD users should call 1-877-486-2048, 24 hours a day/7 days a week;
OR
- The Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. TTY/TDD users should call, 1-800-325-0778; or Your State Medicaid Office.