Quick Reference Guide to Seniors Insurance

Health insurance, and more specifically Medicare, is a highly debatable topic in the United States today. Some struggle to hold onto much needed benefits as premiums and out-of-pockets increase, and many even go without any kind of insurance coverage whatsoever. But even in today's poor economy, the majority of citizens over the age of 65 are eligible for some kind of Medicare insurance coverage. The problem is getting oneself enrolled in Medicare, as well as difficulty in fully understanding the benefits, coverage and costs associated with each different plan.

Your Guide to Medicare Coverage

Different Medicare plans offer different types of coverage and benefits. Part A helps take care of inpatient costs incurred during hospital visits and stays and most citizens will not even have to pay a premium. Part B is geared towards helping senior citizens with outpatient medical care, doctor's costs and occupational or physical therapy, but there is a premium associated with this coverage.

Part C is considered Medicare Advantage, which combines both Medicare Part A and Part B. Medicare Part D, which covers prescription drug costs, can also be added to a Medicare Advantage Plan. Because all of the plans are combined into one package with the Medicare Advantage plan, costs and premiums are usually kept at a minimum, while you enjoy the highest level of coverage and maximum amount of benefits. HMOs, PPOs and more are also included in the Medicare Advantage plan.

There are plenty of options for senior citizens to find affordable health insurance in America today. Even if you have been turned down or are ineligible for Medicare for any reason, there are still plenty of private health insurance options available for you, and most are designed to be affordable for everyone.

^*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.