{"product_id":"medicare-for-dummies","title":"Medicare for Dummies","description":"\u003ctable align=\"center\" border=\"0\" cellpadding=\"2\" cellspacing=\"0\" width=\"100%\"\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"productDetailSmallElements\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTable of Contents\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eIntroduction\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 1\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout This Book 2\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFoolish Assumptions 3\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIcons Used in This Book 4\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBeyond the Book 4\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhere to Go from Here 5\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003ePart 1: Getting Started with Medicare\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 7\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 1: The Nuts and Bolts of Medicare: What It Is and How It Works\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 9\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAddressing Some Upfront Questions 10\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eComing to Terms with the ABCs (and D) of Medicare 12\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart A 13\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart B 14\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart C 15\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart D 15\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRecognizing That You Have Choices and Must Make Timely Decisions 16\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 2: Spelling Out What Medicare Covers (A Lot, but Not Everything)\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 19\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnderstanding What Part A and Part B Cover 20\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNecessary medical care 20\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePreventive care 21\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpecialized care in certain circumstances 24\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMedical supplies and equipment 28\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKnowing What Part D Covers 30\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMaking sense of drug coverage that can vary throughout the year 30\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFinding out about formularies 32\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDetermining when drugs are covered by Part A, Part B, or Part D 34\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Gaps: Discovering What Medicare Doesn't Cover 35\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRoutine hearing, vision, dental, and foot care 35\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHome safety items 36\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNursing home care 37\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMedical services abroad 38\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eServices that may be nice but aren't necessary 38\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDistinguishing When Coverage Comes with Limits 39\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLimits on hospital stays 40\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLimits on skilled nursing facility stays 41\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLimits on mental health benefits 41\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLimits on therapy services 42\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 3: Understanding What You Pay Toward Your Costs in Medicare\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 45\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBoning Up on Premiums, Deductibles, and Co-payments 46\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart A costs 47\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart B costs 49\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePart D costs 50\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMedicare Advantage costs 51\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaying Higher-Income Premiums 52\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnderstanding who's liable for the surcharges 53\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFiguring out what the surcharges cost you 56\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGetting the surcharges waived 57\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaying Different Premiums than Other People in Certain Years 59\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaying Medicare Taxes While Receiving Medicare Benefits 61\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 4: Reducing Your Out-of-Pocket Expenses in Medicare\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 63\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePurchasing Medigap Insurance 64\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExamining Medigap policies 65\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChoosing and buying a Medigap policy 70\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eQualifying for Help from Your State 70\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMedicaid 71\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMedicaid medical spend-down programs 72\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMedicare Savings Programs 73\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePACE plans 74\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eState Pharmacy Assistance Programs 75\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExamining Whether Extra Help Can Lower Your Drug Costs 76\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eQualifying for Extra Help 77\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eApplying for Extra Help 78\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChoosing a drug plan with Extra Help 85\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConsidering Other Ways to Cut Costs 88\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTaking income tax deductions for Medicare costs 88\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLowering drug costs without Extra Help 90\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003ePart 2: The Hows and Whens of Medicare\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 93\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 5: Qualifying for Medicare\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 95\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHitting the Milestone of Age 65 96\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDebunking some qualification myths 96\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeeting the requirements for Parts A, B, and D 97\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eQualifying for Part A on your own work record 98\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBeing eligible for Part A on someone else's work record 100\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eQualifying for Medicare under Age 65 on the Basis of Disability 102\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReceiving disability payments 103\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuffering from permanent kidney failure (ESRD) 105\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLiving with Lou Gehrig's disease (ALS) 106\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFalling through the Cracks: Health-Care Options if You Can't Get Medicare Yet 106\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNice work if you can get it: Landing a job with benefits 106\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePaying for COBRA temporary insurance 107\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePurchasing individual insurance through the online Marketplace 107\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBuying health insurance outside of the Obamacare Marketplace 109\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGetting health care without insurance 110\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 6: Enrolling in Medicare at the Right Time for You\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 111\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt a Glance: Surveying Situations That Affect Enrollment Timing 112\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnderstanding Your Initial Enrollment Period 114\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing your IEP at age 65 114\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTaking advantage of your IEP when you have disabilities 115\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDelaying Part B if You'll Qualify for a Special Enrollment Period Later 116\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBeing able to delay Part B without penalty 117\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKnowing what to do about Part A if you delay Part B 119\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeeding a special warning if you have a health savings account at work 120\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing the special enrollment period 122\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEnrolling in Other Specific Situations 123\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou're a legal permanent resident 123\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou live outside the United States 124\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou're in a nontraditional marriage or domestic partnership 127\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou're incarcerated 128\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDeciding Whether and When to Sign Up for Part D Drug Coverage 129\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAssessing drug coverage you have from elsewhere 129\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDebating whether you need Part D if you don't take medications 131\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFiguring the best time to enroll in Part D 132\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnderstanding the Consequences of Not Signing Up at the Right Time 133\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMissing your deadline for Part B 135\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePassing your deadline for Part A 138\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNeglecting your deadline for Part D 140\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFiguring out whether you can get a late penalty revoked 142\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 7: Discovering How to Sign Up for Medicare\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 145\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBeing Automatically Enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B 146\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSign Me Up! Applying for Medicare Parts A and B 147\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSigning up from inside the United States 148\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEnrolling while you're living abroad 152\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOpting Out of or Disenrolling from Part A or Part B 153\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDeclining Part A 154\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOpting out of Part B 155\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDisenrolling from Part B 157\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKnowing When Your Coverage Begins 158\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen you sign up during the first three months of your IEP 160\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen you sign up during IEP months four through seven 160\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen you are awarded Medicare coverage retroactively 161\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTransitioning from Obamacare to Medicare 162\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFiguring out whether you need to make the switch 163\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKnowing how and when to switch from Marketplace to Medicare 165\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 8: Understanding How Medicare Fits In with Other Health Insurance\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 169\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnderstanding Medicare's Coordination of Benefits System 170\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHelping Medicare help you: Filling out your initial enrollment questionnaire 171\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKeeping Medicare informed if your coverage changes 172\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSeeing How Medicare Works with an Employer's Health Insurance Plan 172\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWorking with insurance from a current employer 173\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHaving insurance from a former employer 176\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFiguring Out How Other Federal Health Benefits Fit In with Medicare 180\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Federal Employees Health Benefits Program 180\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTRICARE and TRICARE For Life 183\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Veterans Affairs health system 186\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Indian Health Service 188\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Black Lung Program 188\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMixing Medicare with Workers' Comp or No-Fault or Liability Insurance 189\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen you first make a claim 190\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf the claim isn't settled promptly 190\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen the claim has been settled 191\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003ePart 3: Making Smart Choices among Medicare's Many Options\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 193\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 9: Making Sense of Medicare's Many Options\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 195\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSeeing the Big Picture: Your Starting Point to Navigating the Medicare Maze 196\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnderstanding the consequences of your choice of system 196\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWeighing the two systems 199\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRecognizing when you may not have a choice 202\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBeing on your guard against \"auto-enrollment\" 203\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDigging into the Details of Traditional Medicare versus Medicare Advantage 205\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOpting for traditional Medicare 205\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLooking at Medicare Advantage plans 207\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChecking out three other types of Medicare health plans 211\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDiscovering How Medigap Policies Differ from Medicare Advantage Plans 212\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 10: Choosing Wisely If You Go with Traditional Medicare\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 215\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnderstanding the Need to Compare Part D Plans Carefully 216\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKnowing what not to do 216\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDefining \"the best plan\" 217\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRecognizing that comparing plans is worth the effort 218\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSeeing how comparing plans can save big bucks 219\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGetting organized with two crucial lists 221\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePicking the Part D Plan That's Best for You 223\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAssessing the Plan Finder's reliability 224\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing the Medicare Plan Finder to discover options available to you 225\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDrilling down to important bits of info when comparing Part D plans 228\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChoosing the Medigap Supplemental Policy That's Best for You 233\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChoosing a Medigap policy 233\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBuying a Medigap policy at the right time 235\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBuying Medigap if you're under 65 237\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuspending a Medigap policy 239\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 11: Making Smart Choices If You Opt for Medicare Advantage\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 241\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eComparing Medicare Advantage Plans 242\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eComparing plans' medical benefits 243\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdding prescription drug coverage 247\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChoosing the Medicare Advantage Plan That's Right for You 250\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFiguring out which providers accept the plans you're considering 250\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEnrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan 251\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTaking action if you change your mind 252\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 12: Getting Help in Making Medicare Choices\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 255\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne on One: Getting Personal Help on Medicare Issues 256\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAsking family and friends 256\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eContacting State Health Insurance Assistance Programs 257\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCalling Medicare's help line 258\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSeeking advice from other sources 260\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBuyer Beware! Avoiding Scams and Hard-Sell Marketing 261\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSteering clear of outright scams 262\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eResisting hard-sell marketing tactics 265\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003ePart 4: Navigating Medicare from the Inside\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 269\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 13: Starting Out as a New Medicare Beneficiary\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 271\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlaying Your Cards Right 272\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnderstanding when to use each card 272\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReplacing your cards 275\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBeyond the Cards: Checking Out the Extent and Limits of Your Coverage 275\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eManaging Premiums 277\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDiscovering different ways to pay Medicare premiums 277\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKnowing what can happen when you don't pay your premiums on time 281\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKeeping Track of Your Expenses 284\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnderstanding Medicare Summary Notices 284\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMaintaining hard-copy records you can rely on 287\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTracking information online 288\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDealing with Doctors 288\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFinding doctors who accept Medicare patients 289\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnderstanding what doctors can charge you 289\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFilling Prescriptions for the First Time with a Part D Plan 292\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen does my coverage begin? 292\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhich kind of pharmacy can I use? 293\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat happens if I go to an out-of-network pharmacy? 295\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHow do I prove I have Part D coverage? 296\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHow can I ensure I get my meds? 297\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 14: Getting the Inside Scoop on Using Certain Medicare Benefits\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 301\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTaking a Closer Look at Part A 302\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnderstanding hospital benefit periods 302\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTaking note of the three-day rule 304\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDefining observation status 305\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBeing aware of the improvement standard 308\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFighting premature hospital discharge 309\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProceeding if the hospital makes a mistake 310\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKnowing your rights in a skilled nursing facility 310\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eZooming In on Part B 314\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChecking on whether Medicare will cover your treatment 314\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReceiving a notice saying that Medicare may not pay 315\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDetermining whether you can find out a service's cost in advance 317\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMaximizing your chances for coverage 318\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRecognizing your right to second opinions 319\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFiling a claim directly to Medicare 320\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDelving into Part D 321\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnderstanding how a plan may restrict your drug coverage 322\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrappling with the tier system of co-pays 324\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNavigating the doughnut hole 327\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing Part D to get the shingles vaccine 328\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTaking advantage of free Medication Therapy Management benefits 329\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 15: Changing Your Medicare and Medigap Coverage\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 331\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSwitching Coverage during Open Enrollment or Disenrollment 332\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe open enrollment period 332\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe disenrollment period 333\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTaking Advantage of Special Enrollment Periods 334\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRecognizing when you can use SEPs to change plans 335\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMaking sure your records and prescriptions are transferred 339\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDropping a Plan (Or Being Dropped) 341\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLeaving a plan on your own 341\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGetting the boot from your plan 342\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDeciding Whether to Stay or Switch to Another Plan for Next Year 344\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReading your Annual Notice of Change to understand plan alterations 344\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eComparing plans (yes, all over again!) 346\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLooking at extra factors influencing your decision 347\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChanging to Another Medigap Policy 348\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKnowing the consequences of switching Medigap policies 349\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExploring a change of Medigap coverage 350\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExercising your right to a 30-day free look 350\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 16: Knowing Your Rights\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 351\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnderstanding Your Right to Accurate Information 351\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKnowing whom to call 352\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSeeking a second opinion 353\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAsking for an Investigation 354\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRequesting equitable relief 354\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eContacting an ombudsman 355\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReaching out to your Quality Improvement Organization 355\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGetting ahold of your plan 356\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFiling a grievance 356\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTaking Steps toward an Appeal 357\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eObtaining a formal denial 358\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRequesting a coverage determination 358\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHaving a game plan in mind before you move ahead with an appeal 360\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFiling a Formal Appeal 361\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWalking through the five levels of appeal 361\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGetting help in making an appeal 366\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003ePart 5: The Part of Tens\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 367\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 17: Top Ten Medicare Mistakes\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 369\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThinking You Must Reach Full Retirement Age before Signing Up 370\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAssuming You Don't Qualify If You Haven't Worked Long Enough 370\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFailing to Enroll in Part B When You Should 371\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBelieving You Don't Need Part B If You Have Retiree or COBRA Coverage 371\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot Signing Up for Part D Because You Don't Use Prescription Drugs 372\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePicking a Part D Drug Plan for the Wrong Reasons 372\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMisunderstanding Enrollment Periods 373\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBeing Too Late to Buy Medigap with Full Protections 373\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFailing to Read Your Annual Notice of Change 374\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot Realizing You May Qualify for Help to Lower Your Costs 375\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eChapter 18: Ten Ways to Stay Healthier beyond Age 65\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 377\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTaking Action to Avoid Falls 377\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExercising Regularly 379\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eQuitting Smoking 379\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEating Healthfully 380\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCutting Out Soft Drinks and Extra Sugar 381\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKeeping an Eye on Prescription Drugs 381\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eContinuing to Work or Stay Active 382\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStaying Connected and Engaged 382\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKeeping Your Brain in Shape 383\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAddressing Tough Choices before They're Necessary 383\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003ePart 6: Appendixes \u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e385\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAppendix A: Sources of Help and Information\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 387\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGovernment Help Lines and Websites 387\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Centers for Medicare \u0026amp; Medicaid Services 388\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Social Security Administration 388\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eState Health Insurance Assistance Programs 389\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Eldercare Locator 394\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIndependent Sources of Direct Help 394\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Medicare Rights Center 394\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe National Alliance for Hispanic Health 395\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe National Asian Pacific Center on Aging 395\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eResources for Saving Money 396\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConsumer Information and Advocacy Organizations 397\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSources for Updates on Medicare 398\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAppendix B: Glossary\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e 399\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIndex 405\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBiographical Note\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003ePatricia Barry\u003c\/b\u003e is a recognized authority on Medicare who has written extensively about the program for consumers. For nearly two decades, as a senior editor of AARP's publications, she wrote hundreds of articles on Medicare and served as the online \"Ask Ms. Medicare\" columnist, answering thousands of questions sent by Medicare beneficiaries across the nation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eJacket Description\/Back\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGet tips on navigating the Medicare maze\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDetermine the best time to enroll and how\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSave money by avoiding costly mistakes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMedicare made simple\u003c\/b\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDespite its importance in our lives, few of us understand even the basics of how Medicare works. That's where \u003ci\u003eMedicare For Dummies\u003c\/i\u003e comes in: This essential guide demystifies the often-complex system in a friendly, straightforward style and explains everything from when and how to enroll and finding the plan that's best for you to avoiding costly mistakes. Whatever your question, this is your reassuring resource, allowing you to stop worrying and know that you're getting the most out of your coverage. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eInside...\u003c\/b\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKnow what Medicare covers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUnderstand how to qualify\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEnroll at the right time\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMaximize your coverage\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEvaluate Medigap options\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKnow your rights\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChange your plan\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAvoid common mistakes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePublisher Marketing\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMedicare made simple\u003c\/b\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMedicare brings valuable benefits to more than 58 million people and growing, but most of us don't even know the basics of how Medicare can work best for us. That's where \u003ci\u003eMedicare For Dummies, 4\u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003csup\u003eth\u003c\/sup\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci\u003e Edition\u003c\/i\u003e comes in, explaining how this complex system functions and helping you confidently navigate your way through the maze to get the most out of your coverage. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis indispensable resource untangles Medicare in friendly, straightforward language. Step by step, you'll learn when and how to enroll, ways to avoid costly mistakes, and how to find the plan that brings the most benefit to you and your family. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReduce out-of-pocket expenses \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKnow your rights and protections \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChoose the best policy for you \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing this reassuring and comprehensive guide, you'll be able to get the answers to all your questions, find guidance on how to act--and then get on with getting the benefits you need.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAuthor:\u003c\/b\u003e Barry, Patricia\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003ePublisher:\u003c\/b\u003e For Dummies\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003eBinding:\u003c\/b\u003e Paperback\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003ePub Date:\u003c\/b\u003e 2020-10-20\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003eBISAC:\u003c\/b\u003e Business \u0026amp; Economics|Insurance|Health|Medical|Medicaid \u0026amp; Medicare\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003eSubjects:\u003c\/b\u003e Medical care|Medicare|United States|Health insurance|Older people\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003eWeight:\u003c\/b\u003e 1.3 lbs\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003eISBN:\u003c\/b\u003e 9781119689935\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003eASIN:\u003c\/b\u003e -\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003eSKU:\u003c\/b\u003e SP-9781119689935\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"For Dummies","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52147162874137,"sku":"SP-9781119689935","price":39.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0913\/0380\/5209\/files\/9781119689935_spiral.png?v=1774157591","url":"https:\/\/westbindery.com\/products\/medicare-for-dummies","provider":"West Bindery","version":"1.0","type":"link"}