Reading Your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC)
Every August/September, your Medicare Advantage (MA) or Part D drug plan drops a thick envelope in your mailbox titled “Plan Annual Notice of Change (ANOC).” It’s the plan’s yearly “heads-up” on what will look different starting January 1, and by rule it has to reach you no later than September 30. Why the deadline? CMS…
Vaccinations: What Medicare Covers At No Charge
August might still feel like pool-weather, but it’s the perfect month to lock in the vaccines that will carry you safely through flu-season and the winter COVID-wave—and, new this year for many of us, RSV protection. Here’s the quick low-down for Medicare beneficiaries 65-plus (and younger friends with certain conditions). Why Book in August? 1….
Beat the Heat: Hydration & Safety Tips for Older Adults
Summer is here, and forecasters are calling for another stretch of above‑average temperatures across much of the country. That’s more than just an inconvenience if you’re 65 or older: heat‑related deaths in our age group jumped 85 percent between 2000 and 2021—a reminder that hot weather deserves real respect. Below are quick, actionable steps to stay cool, stay…
CMS Releases 2025 Medicare Parts A & B Premiums and Deductibles
On November 8, 2024, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released the 2025 premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance amounts for the Medicare Part A and Part B programs, and the 2025 Medicare Part D income-related monthly adjustment amounts. 2025 At A Glance: The standard monthly premium for Medicare Part B enrollees will be $185.00…
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) revealed on Thursday, August 31st 2023, that the initial group of ten Medicare Part D medications slated for negotiation under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) has been identified.
These drugs have been designated based on the outlined criteria within the IRA. This legislation mandates that CMS prioritize drugs with the highest Medicare expenditure and minimal competition, among other considerations. The resulting roster encompasses medications that are crucial for numerous Medicare recipients in treating various conditions such as cancer, diabetes, blood clotting, heart failure,…
National Immunization Awareness Month
August marks Immunization Awareness Month, a time when we focus on the health of seniors by educating on immunizations. Seniors staying up-to-date with vaccinations can play an important role in preventive care. Fortunately, Medicare Part B and D plans offer comprehensive coverage for a range of vaccines, ensuring that older adults can access the protection…
5 Tips to Protect Yourself from Medicare Fraud: Stay Safe and Informed
As a senior citizen, you rely on Medicare to provide you with the medical care you need to stay healthy. Unfortunately, scammers and fraudsters also know how valuable your Medicare benefits are, and they will go to great lengths to try to trick you into giving up your personal information or signing up for services…
Medicare Prescription Drug Inflation Rebate Program
We have some exciting news to share with you! The Biden-Harris Administration recently launched the Medicare Prescription Drug Inflation Rebate Program, which will protect you and taxpayers against drug price hikes that exceed the inflation rate. Starting from April 1, 2023, you will have access to 27 Part B prescription drugs that will be available…
Out-of-Pocket Costs to Anticipate
As we are now a couple of months into 2023, it’s important for Medicare beneficiaries to understand the out-of-pocket expenses associated with their healthcare coverage. While Medicare provides essential healthcare benefits for millions of seniors and people with disabilities, it does not cover all medical costs. This is where Medicare Advantage, Part D plans, and…
2023 Medicare Parts A & B Premiums and Deductibles 2023 Medicare Part D Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amounts
On September 27, 2022, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released the 2023 premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance amounts for the Medicare Part A and Part B programs, and the 2023 Medicare Part D income-related monthly adjustment amounts. Medicare Part B Premium and Deductible Medicare Part B covers physician services, outpatient hospital services, certain…