Medicare Basics
Medicare is health care coverage for people in the U.S. who are 65 or older, or who are under 65 but have particular disabilities or illnesses.

Part A in Medicare provides hospital insurance, and everyone who turns 65 is generally enrolled in this program, as long as they worked and paid Medicare taxes. Part B is a health plan, and does generally require a monthly payment. Those turning 65 must voluntarily enroll in Part B.

It's important to know if you or your loved one has other medical coverage besides Medicare, and what that coverage is. This will affect who pays for what charges, and how much out of pocket expense you incur.

Medicare has changed in recent years. The newer programs attempt to offer different choices for the participants, including Parts A and B, as well as part D, the prescription drug benefit.

There is the Original Medicare Plan, but more recent additions to Medicare may have one of newer Medicare Advantage plans available in many areas. There are HMO, PPO, Fee-For-Service, Special Needs and Medical Savings Account plans. These generally include a prescription drug coverage plan as well.

Home Health Care and Community Services
Many times the right kind of care can extend a person's independence and well being, allowing them to lead productive lives at home. A patient and those who care for the patient should investigate the kinds of services available and which the doctor recommends. The Regional Home Health Intermediary (RHHI) that provides services under contract with Medicare will help you understand what services are covered by Medicare and under what circumstances. FirstLantic can explain the available services.

Planning for the Future
As loved ones age, it is necessary to know what benefits they have, what preventative care benefits they can use, and if there are specific instructions they want to have followed regarding their medical care in the future.

You may want to enlist the aid of your SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program). This department is a resource for any counseling needs you might have regarding Medicare or insurance.

They can also answer questions about Power of Attorney procedures and living wills, which may be of interest to older relatives.

Chronic Illnesses
Chronic illness will create anxiety and questions about medical care and the person for whom you share responsibility. Be sure to encourage the patient to ask for a second opinion, and possibly a third, for any major diagnosis. Many times Medicare covers second opinions.

Paying for Prescription Drugs
Part D prescription drug coverage is available to everyone with Medicare. People should consider joining the plan even if their current costs for medication aren't tremendously high, since that can change quickly. Plans do vary widely. There may also be coverage from former employers or the military.

Help with Hospitalization
There are benefits for those with Medicare if a hospital stay is required. There are requirements that must be met before costs will be paid. Most plans have a deductible, and they may have coinsurance as well. It's important to know those charges, and to understand if private insurance pays first or if Medicare pays first in a particular situation.