2012

ORIGINAL MEDICARE

Original Medicare is one of the choices in the Medicare program.   You will be in Original Medicare unless you choose to join a Medicare Advantage plan or other Medicare Plan.

Original Medicare is a fee-for-service program that is managed by the Federal Government.  You can go to any doctor, supplier, hospital, or facility that accepts Medicare and is accepting new Medicare patients. 

You use your red, white and blue Medicare card when you get health care.  This card shows your coverage (Part A and/or Part B), the date your coverage starts, and your Medicare claim number.

 

Medicare has Four Parts

Part A –

Hospital Insurance

Helps cover inpatient care in hospitals and skilled nursing facilities, hospice and home health care

Part B –

Medical Insurance

Helps cover doctors’ services, outpatient care, home health care and some preventative services

Part C –

Medicare Advantage Plans

Another way to get Medicare benefits.  Combines Parts A and B.  Usually includes Part D coverage.  Run by private insurance companies approved by and under contract with Medicare.

Part D –

Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage

Helps cover the cost of prescription drugs.  Run by private insurance companies approved by and under contract with Medicare.

 

Applying for Original Medicare

·        Apply 3 months before age 65

o   Need not be retired

·        Automatically enrolled if receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits

o   If not receiving benefits, apply 3 months before age 65

§  Call SSA at 1-800-772-1213

·        TTY users call 1-800-325-0778

§  Go to SSA website http://ssa.gov

§  If you have railroad employment

·        Call RRB at 1-877-772-5772

For additional information or details, please contact SHIP at 301-590-2819