Are you an Arizona resident approaching their 65th birthday? If so, there’s never been a more suitable time to learn how Medicare can support your ongoing health care.
Of course, changing health care coverage can be overwhelming, but that doesn’t mean you should put it off – doing so can incur avoidable charges further down the line. Truth is, Medicare isn’t as complicated as it might seem, and with our experts by your side, we’ll find a plan to match your needs and budget.
Read on as our experts explore options regarding Medicare Supplement Insurance and Medicare Advantage plans in Arizona.
Some Arizona residents may find the cost of Medicare too high, especially when they have a low income and saddled with the expense of regular treatments and prescription medication.
To alleviate the burden and receive financial assistance, you may be eligible for one of the four Medicare Savings Programs.
Original Medicare (Part A and B) comes with out-of-pocket costs that the plan holder is responsible for. Medicare Supplement plans (Medigap) fill in these gaps, covering a portion of the expenses not included by Original Medicare.
Each state has different rules about which Medicare supplements must be offered to Medicare beneficiaries.
In Arizona, Medicare Supplement Insurance companies must offer at least Medigap Plan A to beneficiaries aged 65 and above. Each company must choose which other Medigap plans to sell.
The Medicare Supplement Insurance plan (Medigap) is available during your open enrollment period. This enrollment period is a six-month window that starts on the first day of the month you turn 65 and enrolled in Part B.
In this 6-month time-frame, you can enroll in a Medicare Supplement Insurance plan without restrictions on pre-existing health conditions. Once this period passes, you may not be able to enroll in a Medigap plan as easily. You may also be charged higher premiums and denied coverage.
In Arizona, it is not possible to enroll in Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) plans if you are under age 65. However, if you have a disability, you can gain access to Arizona Medicare Advantage plans.
When you turn 65, you can take advantage of a second open enrollment window during which you can change over to Medigap.
Medicare Advantage plans in Arizona include the same coverage as Original Medicare, but, in addition, may cover other services, such as vision and dental services. Some Medicare Advantage plans also include prescription drug coverage (Part D) as part of the plan.
Medicare Advantage plans are offered through private insurance companies that have a contract with Medicare. The benefits and costs of the plans vary by company and fluctuate between different Arizona counties.
Since some Medicare Advantage plans can offer coverage beyond Original Medicare, Arizona residents can find a plan that suits their specific needs. WIth plans varying in cost and coverage, residents must carefully compare plans to find the best option.
Medicare Haven’s licensed agents can guide you through the options available and determine if you’re eligible for any financial assistance programs. It’s our job to help find you the best Medicare plan to match your needs.
The best time to enroll in a Medicare Supplement plan in Arizona is during your open enrollment period. This six-month window begins on the first day of the month you turn 65, and your Part B coverage is effective.
It is not possible to have a Medicare Supplement Insurance and a Medicare Advantage plan.
No. Medicare Part D covers prescription drugs. You will need to enroll in Medicare Part D to receive coverage for prescription drugs.
If you have any questions about Arizona Medicare in 2020, and your eligibility for financial assistance, speak to one of our licensed agents today. Our agents will discuss your Medicare options and help find a plan that works for you. Call us today at 1-844-236-0228.