Medicare is the federal government’s health insurance program for Permanent Residents and U.S. Citizens who meet the following categories:
- People who are 65 years or older
- Some people under 65 years old with certain disabilities
- People with end-stage renal disease (known as ESRD)
The Community Health Initiative is able to provide general Medicare education and helping you apply for Medi-Cal, in order for you to receive Medicare and Medi-Cal benefits, also known as Medi-Medi. If you require assistance with understanding in detail your Medicare, the CHI team will connect you with experts who can answer your questions.
WHEN CAN I SIGN UP OR MAKE CHANGES?
There are different opportunities to enroll or make changes to your coverage:
- Initial Enrollment Period – When you are about to turn 65 years of age, you have a 7 month window to sign up.
- Annual Enrollment Period – Enroll from October 15 to December 7 for coverage to begin on January 1.
- Open Enrollment Period – You can change Medicare Advantage plans or return to original Medicare (part A and B) from January 1 to March 31st.
- Special Enrollment Period – You can enroll in Medicare or request changes if you lose your coverage, move and other special situations.
What are the parts of Medicare?
- Part A – Hospital Coverage: Covers inpatient care at a hospital, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care for people with terminal illnesses, blood work (laboratory), and home health care.
- Part B – Medical Coverage: Covers two types of services:
- services needed for medical reasons
- preventive, outpatient, chiropractic and medical equipment services
- Part C – Medicare Advantage Plan: This option includes Medicare Part A, B, and D. The cost of plans can be $0
a month. Most Medicare Advantage plans offer additional services like:- dental services
- gym memberships
- hearing services
- transportation
- vision services
- other additional services
- Part D – Drug Coverage: This is an optional benefit that offers coverage to cover your prescription drugs.
What IS MEDI-MEDI AND WHY SHOULD I BE INTERESTED?
Some people qualify for Medicare and Medi-Cal and are considered “Medi-Medi” dual beneficiaries. When using services, Medi-Medi beneficiaries must present all benefit cards when receiving services. If you have full scope Medi-Cal at no cost, Medi-Cal will help you pay for Medicare Part A and B deductibles and copayments, as well as paying the monthly premium for Medicare Part B.