Medicare Minute: Medicare for Federal Employees and Retirees

Light the candles, put on your favorite song, and savor this moment you only turn 65 once! Forget sayings like A lady or gentleman never tells their age, because at ArchWell Health, we believe every birthday is a reason to celebrate. And every age brings new gifts.So if youre turning 65, theres more than Medicare to look forward to although that is one of the perks!Thats why were excited to unwrap this new series, Turning 65, over the coming months. Each post will highlight a different aspect of life in your mid 60s with a positive spin and practical insights.Here are the topics well cover between now and the fall:Understanding Aging: Part of growing older is learning how to listen to the beautiful machine that is you and knowing how to care for it in this new era. Weve got you covered.Drug Management: With increased age often comes an increased number of prescriptions, and thats OK. Weve got tips for managing them all with ease.Maximizing Independence: You might need help with a few things in this next life stage, but you can still keep that independent spirit too. Well show you the ways.Mental Health: There are definitely more things to worry about as you add more candles to the cake. And there are just as many things if not more to be excited about. Well talk about the serious stuff and how to look for the good in healthy ways.Why Turning 65 Is More Than a NumberWhen you were preparing for college, the workforce, marriage, or parenthood, you probably did some goal setting. Why not do the same now?Whether youre close to retirement, have no plans to stop working because you enjoy being busy, or youre caring for parents and possibly adult children and grandkids, take time during your 65th year to set some new goals for the future near term and long term.Start by setting the tone for adventure in this milestone year: create a bucket list of places you want to go, people you want to visit, hobbies you want to rekindle or try for the first time, or volunteer/paid jobs youd like to do.Schedule time to make progress on these goals each week. You dont have to make a big trip across the ocean maybe start by checking out a travel club at the local Y, or coming to an ArchWell Health Center for line dancing, Jeopardy, or Zumba.Understanding MedicareTurning 65 does not mean you suddenly understand Medicare and all its tricky moving parts. We get it! Its confusing, and it changes a lot so well start with the basics.Part C Medicare/Medicare Advantage plans have to cover everything that the Original Medicare plan does. Most also include Part D coverage and extra benefits like vision and dental coverage. You must keep paying your Part B premium and, in some cases, an additional Medicare Advantage premium. Your premium is your monthly bill for health insurance.Private companies also offer Medicare supplement plans (aka Medigap plans). These help you pay for things Parts A and B dont cover, like extra costs that come in the form of copays and deductibles.How and when do you enroll or switch plans?Open enrollment begins on October 15th. During this period, you can sign up for a new Medicare Advantage, Part D or Medigap plan from the Medicare website. Peruse plans and when you find the one you like, simply click the enroll button.You can also enroll by calling a health plan directly. Prefer a paper form? Just ask your ArchWell Health provider. Make sure to get that form in before December 7th when open enrollment ends.How do you choose the right coverage?If youre happy with the coverage you have, you dont have to do anything else unless your Medicare Advantage, Medigap or Part D drug plan will no longer be available.If youre not happy or you want to shop around do these two things next.Step one: Review your current plans Annual Notice of Change (ANOC), which comes in the mail in September. On the ANOC, youll find a list of:Any changes to costs like premiums, deductibles and copaysAny changes to the plans network of providers and pharmaciesAny changes to the plans drug list (formulary)If your Medicare plan is dropping your favorite doctor or health system, it might be time to find a new plan. Want a different provider? This is the time to find someone new. And if an expensive drug you take wont be covered anymore (or it moves to a higher level on the drug list, which makes the price go up), its time to consider a new plan.Step two: Visit the Medicare website. There, youll find a handy tool that lets you compare Medicare Advantage, Part D and Medigap plans in your area. Log in or enter your ZIP code, then choose the plan you want. You can study all the available options here too. With Medicare Advantage plans, youll see things like:The Medicare star rating, where 5 stars is the highest.The monthly premium and, good news! there are Medicare Advantage plans with $0 premiums.Total drug and premium costs (if youve entered your prescriptions).Other costs (like deductibles and maximum out-of-pocket costs).What extra benefits the plan includes.If youve logged in, you can even see a side-by-side comparison between your current plan and up to two others.Whats the difference between payer and provider?As you become more familiar with Medicare or if youve been around the healthcare block a few times youll probably hear terms like payers, providers and outcomes. Its important to know what these terms mean as you navigate Medicare.Insurance companies are the payers.Doctors, clinics, physical therapists, and centers like ArchWell Health are the providers.Choosing the right provider makes a difference when it comes to your healthcare experience and outcomes (positive results).Maybe you never paid much attention to your providers before: you were busy working, raising a family, or didnt know you had the opportunity to choose something or someone else. Now you know! And we encourage you for your 65th trip around the sun to prioritize your health by finding the right fit because your care matters.Planning Ahead: Legal, Financial and Lifestyle Planning TipsPlan now so you and your loved ones can have peace later. Many people put off things like writing a will or setting up advanced directives because they think I dont need that yet. But think of preparedness in terms of the whens, not the what ifs. Because ultimately, even if were turning 65 and see another 30 good years ahead of us, we all have to be ready for those moments.The beauty of planning ahead is that you can take your time, knocking out document after document in an orderly, unhurried way. Make sure you have a will, a power of attorney and healthcare proxy to make decisions for you if you become unable to do so, and draw up healthcare directives should the unthinkable happen.Set aside some time each month to look at retirement planning tools like retirement cost calculators, an estate planning checklist, or educational workshops and free legal clinics in your community. Working with a community or trusted partner can help you stay on track and get expert advice to reach your goals. They may also be able to point you in the direction of benefits and discounts available to those 65 and older.Read more about having successful conversations about care plans and how to keep your caregiving paperwork ducks in a row.Perks of Being 65 and WiserWho doesnt love free stuff? Check out this list of discounts and community-based resources to make 65 a banner year at a reduced rate, of course. Youve earned it!Get out and see the worldIts a great time to spread your wings or hit the trails and find new adventures without the high price tag. Here are a few notable offers:Travel by train and get 10% off rail fares through Amtrak.Prefer the bus? Greyhound offers 10% off for seniors too.Want to visit the National Parks across the US? A Senior Lifetime pass is $80, and an Annual Pass is $20.Car rentals: Hertz offers 20% off to those 50 and older, and other companies offer discounts to AARP members.Airline tickets: American Airlines and United both offer senior discounts. Check the website or ask customer service for more details as these may be limited to certain destinations.Stay close to home and save moneyWhether youre visiting the grandkids or looking to be a tourist in your own town, many movie theaters, restaurants, and museums offer senior discounts.Learn something new or study a subject youve always loved through discounted college courses or tuition free programs at universities near you.Want to work out at home for free, or at a local gym? Find out if your health plan participates with Silver Sneakers.Connect in the communityWhen youre not out seeing the world, stay plugged into your local neighborhood happenings through these senior-friendly resource hubs:AARP: The American Association of Retired Persons is still the top organization for all things aging and active older adults. Check out the website to see everything they have to offer for your later life decades.Local Senior Centers: Many cities and towns are still home to senior centers, which are supported by county-based AAAs (Area Agencies on Aging). Find the one closest to you to learn more.ArchWell Health centers: From friendly, caring providers who specialize in the care of seniors to vibrant community events, we have it all. Come visit us and say hello to a new era of wellness.ArchWell Health Celebrates YouWere all about celebrating our members every day birthday or not. Come with your Medicare questions, your nutrition challenges, or with an open mind to participate in our unique center activities focused on wellness for those 65 and up.About the AuthorJudith Ford, MD, Chief Clinical OfficerGrowing up with a father as a physician and a mother as a nurse, Judith Ford, a Medical Doctor (MD), has always had an interest in the medical field and caring for others. After attending college and medical school, she began practicing with a focus on taking care of older patients with complex conditions. With this mission in mind, the move to ArchWell Health was a natural fit. When not practicing medicine, shes spending time with her husband, Chris, and her children, Sara and Jane.

June is Mens Health Awareness Month, making it the perfect time for men to take stock of their health and prioritize getting the necessary preventive screenings. While nobody enjoys going to the doctor more than necessary, routine screenings are crucial for detecting issues early when theyre most treatable. Over 90 percent of the premature deaths among men from unintentional injuries, cardiovascular disease, and suicide could potentially be prevented. One-third of men (33 percent) dont think they need annual health screenings, and almost two-thirds (65 percent) believe they are naturally healthier than others. Prevention is your strongest weapon against becoming a statistic, says Dr. Ravi Ramaswami, a family care physician with Lee Health/Lee Physician Group. Even if youre feeling fine, visit your doctor for an annual wellness exam. The same holds true with getting annual preventive screenings for heart disease, depression, and cancers. By prioritizing these regular screenings, you invest in your future well-being because its not just about being healthy; its about staying healthy. So, dont be one of the statistics take charge of your health by getting the following recommended preventive screenings: Mental health screening Taking care of yourself isnt only physicalcheck in with your doctor about your mental and emotional health, too. Its important because men are far less likely than women to be clinically diagnosed with depression. Thats because men are less likely to discuss or report symptoms associated with depression, according to the National Institutes of Health.The toll of avoiding help has proved enormously tragic. Undiagnosed and untreated depression in men carries a substantially higher risk of substance abuse, violence, and suicide. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention reports that in 2021, men died by suicide at a rate 3.88 times higher than women. Middle-aged and older men were at increased risk, with white males accounting for nearly 70 percent of all suicides that year. But theres hope and help. Depression and other mental illnesses are highly treatable when identified and when men are connected to appropriate support and care. But it begins with having a talk with your doctor and/or reaching out to a mental health professional when the going gets rough mentally and emotionally. Early intervention, support, and open conversations around mens mental and emotional well-being can be life-saving endeavors. If youve experienced any concerning behavioral changes, mood disturbances, or emotional difficulties, dont tough it out alone reach out to an experienced, compassionate professional at Lee Health Behavioral Services at 239-343-9180.Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Blood pressure screening High blood pressure or hypertension increases your risk for heart disease, stroke, and other serious conditions but rarely causes obvious symptoms initially. Thats why getting your blood pressure checked regularly is so important, says Dr. Ramaswami. Men should get screened for hypertension at least once per year if their levels are in the healthy range, he says. More frequent monitoring is needed if your levels are high or borderline high. If theres a concern, your doctor can help you manage it and suggest lifestyle changes to help you stay healthier. Cholesterol screening High cholesterol leads to plaque buildup in the arteries, increasing heart attack and stroke risk. Like hypertension, high cholesterol often doesnt cause noticeable symptoms until significant cardiovascular issues arise. Get your cholesterol levels checked every 4-6 years if theyre in the healthy range, Dr. Ramaswami advises. Testing may be needed more often if your levels are elevated, or you have other cardiac risk factors. Colorectal cancer screening Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer and cause of cancer deaths in American men. The good news is it is highly preventable through routine screening. Men at average risk should begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45 via colonoscopy, stool tests, or other approved methods. Earlier and more frequent screening is recommended for those at higher risk. Prostate cancer screening The goal of screening for prostate cancer is to find cancers that may be at high risk for spreading if not treated and to find them early before they spread, according to Dr. Joseph Klink, a board-certified urologic oncologist with Lee Health Cancer Institute.He says most prostate cancers develop slowly or not at all. Prostate cancer typically grows slowly, so many cases dont require immediate treatment and arent life-threatening, Dr. Klink says. Prostate cancer can be serious, but most men diagnosed with it dont die from prostate cancer. In fact, in the United States, there are more than 3.1 million men diagnosed with prostate cancer who are still alive today. The takeaway message is that the earlier prostate cancer is caught, the easier it can be contained. While screening requirements vary, the American Cancer Society recommends men discuss the potential benefits and risks of PSA testing with their doctor starting at: Age 50 for men at average risk Age 45 for men at high risk (African American/ Black or with a close male relative diagnosed with prostate cancer) Age 40 for men at higher risk (more than one close relative diagnosed at an early age) Diabetes screening Men with obesity or other risk factors should get screened for diabetes every three years starting at age 45 if levels are normal. Those with high blood sugar readings indicating prediabetes may need more frequent screening. Lung cancer screening Annual lung cancer screening is recommended for men ages 50-80 who are at high risk for lung cancer due to a history of chronic smoking. Early detection of lung cancer greatly improves treatment outcomes. Screening is done using a low-dose CT scan. Skin cancer screening While screening recommendations vary, men should regularly examine their skin for suspicious moles or growths. Report any concerns to their doctor immediately. Those at higher risk, such as outdoor workers or fair-skinned individuals, may benefit from periodic total-body skin exams by a dermatologist. While this list covers some key preventative screenings for men, its not exhaustive. Talk with your doctor about your risk factors and the most appropriate screening recommendations. The bottom line is being proactive about preventive care gives you the best chance at identifying issues early and enjoying better health at every age.Find a Lee Physician Group doctor here. LEE HEALTHleehealth.org   

For many women, the demands of work, family, and a busy life often leave them with little time to prioritize their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Thats why in 1999, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office on Womens Health inaugurated National Womens Health Week (NWHW), which officially ran from May 11 -17. Many organizations also officially recognize National Womens Health Awareness Month throughout May. And, of course, womens health issues are important year-round.According to Dr. Cherrie Morris, Chief Physician Executive and Vice President for Lee Health Womens Services and Specialties, these observances serve as an important reminder for women to prioritize their well-being and embrace a proactive approach to their health. The observance highlights the unique health challenges women face and encourages them to take charge toward improving their physical, mental, and emotional health, Dr. Morris says. What challenges do women face in healthcare? Women face specific health challenges that are different from men, including issues related to reproductive health, pregnancy, and menopause, Dr. Morris notes. Also, women have a higher susceptibility to certain diseases, like autoimmune disorders. These gender specific conditions can lead to delays in diagnosis, symptoms being dismissed or undertreated, and situations being misunderstood, she says. For example, womens physical health symptoms are sometimes incorrectly diagnosed as stemming from mental health issues when they are actually symptomatic of an underlying chronic condition. Women face various stigmas in healthcare, including weight-related biases that can negatively impact communication with providers, potentially leading to overlooked concerns or inadequate preventive screenings. Additionally, womenparticularly women of colorface healthcare disparities that can lead to delayed diagnoses, inadequate treatments, and poorer health outcomes. What is Lee Health doing to address these issues? Dr. Morris says Lee Health is currently positioning itself as an educational resource platform specifically for womens health issues. The goal, she says, is to provide reliable information on topics like cardiac health, endometriosis, pelvic pain, polycystic ovary syndrome, infertility, mental health, and postpartum depression. Lee Health is also working to improve access to affordable healthcare services, including preventive screenings and mental health services. Dr. Morris acknowledges that women use more outpatient services than men, but often have less time for appointments. As such, she intends to make healthcare more convenient through expanded telemedicine services and virtual visit capabilities, easier appointment scheduling, and ensuring affordability for all women regardless of economic status.Streamlining patient access, particularly through digital tools like MyChart, can significantly enhance convenience as well, Dr. Morris notes. Finally, the nurses with Lee Health Womens Services partner with local organizations to provide women in underserved communities with essential healthcare services and resources. As an example, she says, our prenatal clinics in these areas are staffed by certified nurse-midwives so that all pregnant women and their babies receive the care they deserve. What role do community partnerships play? Community partnerships are essential for providing comprehensive care, according to Dr. Morris. She highlights organizations like Healthy Start, which builds trust with underserved communities and provides resources like prenatal services, postpartum care, newborn services, car seats, and diapers to those in need. Beyond operational improvements, fostering community connections is crucial, Dr. Morris notes. Healthcare organizations should strive to make patients aware of local resources, mentorship programs, emotional support networks, and assistance for families in crisis.Programs like Better Together, which help single mothers and families in need, demonstrate the importance of integrating community partnerships into healthcare planning, she says. Partnering with and promoting community programs like Healthy Start and Better Together helps address social determinants of health and provide support beyond clinical care, says Dr. Morris. These are valuable community partnership resources that can further improve outreach and patient support. Ultimately, comprehensive healthcare access requires a balance between digital efficiency, provider availability, and strong community engagement. Looking ahead: Lee Healths vision for womens healthcare? Dr. Morris believes a multifaceted approach to womens healthcare should encompass education, access to care, and community resources. As Lee Health Womens Service Line continues to expand its comprehensive care and personalized treatment options, she envisions: A centralized platform for reliable health information Improved scheduling systems for convenient, coordinated care Better access to affordable services Integration with community resources Enhanced digital access with provider resources to support it Ultimately, we want to provide comprehensive care for women across generations, working past biases, disparities, and stigmas to help women be active participants in their healthcare journey, she says. Lee Health Womens Service Line Lee Health provides comprehensive womens health services, encompassing obstetrics and gynecology, maternity care, and breast health services, delivered with compassion and personalized attention. Our specialists deliver comprehensive womens healthcare services, incorporating preventative medicine, routine examinations, and advanced diagnostic testing to ensure optimal care across all life stages. We invite you to read more about our programs, essential tests, resources, and everything you need to stay informed and healthy.Find a Womens Care Location Close to You.LEE HEALTH leehealth.org