Because of the close relationship between Medicare and Social Security, people often confuse these two programs. Although there are connections between Medicare and Social Security, they are two separate government programs. Medicare – Individuals over 65, people with chronic illnesses, and those with end-stage renal disease are covered by Medicare. Social Security – a government pension available to people older than 62 who have chronic disabilities. Social Security benefits are also available to Medicare recipients and vice versa. Besides eligibility, Medicare and Social Security overlap in a few other ways. Enrollment: Both programs require initial enrollment through the Social Security Administration. The Social Security Administration is the place to go to enroll in a Medicare plan or defer your Medicare coverage (for example, to return to an employer plan). Premiums: Medicare premium increases are based on Social Security pension amounts. Part B premiums are typically deducted automatically from Social Security pensions. Eligibility: People who receive Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits are automatically enrolled in Medicare. Similarly, if a person is collecting Social Security when they turn 65, they are automatically enrolled in Medicare (although they can defer Medicare if they have other coverage). Call Kevin Leinum your local Medicare expert for more information.

Any doctor or hospital accepting Medicare anywhere in the United States is covered under original Medicare. When a person has Medicare Advantage, their coverage is usually region-specific, and their plan type will determine whether the coverage extends out of state. People participating in Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) must use certain healthcare providers. Out-of-network services, such as those located in another state, are rarely covered. Out-of-state care may be covered by a Preferred Provider Organization (PPO). To find out if a plan covers you, carefully read the documentation or contact your provider. Let expert Kevin Leinum help you understand the many parts of Medicare and determine the right fit for you. Give me a call to discuss the options available to you.