Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida

Whether to enroll in Part B or use FEHB as primary coverage is a personal decision, based on your individual circumstances. You should look at the costs and benefits of each insurance plan and make the choice thats best for you.Federal Employee Health Benefits (FEHB)Cover current and retired government employeesAdministered by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM)Can be:Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs): Have networks of providers that you usually must see. Out of network costs may be lower.Fee-for-service (FFS) plans: Allow you to see any medical provider, but you may have higher costs.When you become Medicare-eligible, you have a few options:Keep FEHB and turn down Medicare.Even if you have FEHB retiree coverage, it will continue to provide you with primary coverage if you dont enroll in Medicare. In this way, FEHB retiree coverage is different from most other retiree coverage.If you choose this option, consider turning down Medicare Part B but still enrolling in Part A. Part A is usually premium-free, meaning that you can have this additional coverage at no cost to you.Keep FEHB and enroll in Medicare.The two will work together to cover your health care costs, but you will owe premiums for both.Disenroll from FEHB and enroll in Medicare.You might not be able to enroll in FEHB again in the future if you change your mind.For a full list of questions to ask yourself when choosing the option that is best for you and more on identifying billing errors download this helpful handout by the Medicare Rights Center.Who to contact for more information: Contact your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) if you want to discuss your Medicare enrollment options with a Medicare counselor. Contact your Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) if you may have experienced Medicare fraud, errors, or abuse. In Southwest Florida it is 866-413-5337 or email shineinfo@aaaswfl.org. Contact the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) if youre a federal employee or retiree and want to learn more about FEHB. You can call 317-212-0454 or visit www.opm.gov/healthcare-insurance. Contact United States Postal Service (USPS) if you are a USPS employee, retiree, or eligible family member and need more information on PSHB. Current employees can visit www.liteblue.usps.gov and retirees can visit www.keepingposted.org.The Medicare Rights Center is the author of portions of the content in these materials but is not responsible for any content not authored by the Medicare Rights Center. This document was supported, in part, by grant numbers 90SATC0002 and 90MPRC0002 from the Administration for Community Living (ACL), Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C. 20201. Grantees undertaking projects under government sponsorship are encouraged to express freely their findings and conclusions. Points of view or opinions do not, therefore, necessarily represent official Administration for Community Living policy. [April 2024]

The Adult Protective Services Program, a division of the Florida Department of Children and Families, is dedicated to preventing further harm to vulnerable adults who are victims of abuse, neglect, exploitation, or self-neglect, as outlined in Chapter 415, Florida Statutes.The Florida Abuse Hotline plays an important role in this process by screening allegations of adult abuse or neglect. It assesses whether the information meets the criteria for an abuse report. If the criteria are met, a protective investigation is initiated to determine if there is evidence of abuse, neglect, or exploitation; to assess immediate or long-term risks to the victim; and to identify any additional services needed to ensure the victims well-being.If you see or suspect anyone one of being abused or neglected. Please reach out via the Abuse Hotline 1-800-962-2873 or via this link: https://reportabuse.myflfamilies.com/s/Elder Abuse Prevention TrainingThe AAASWFL provides complimentary training on Elder Abuse Prevention for both professionals and community members. Participants will receive a certificate of completion upon finishing the training. For more information or to schedule a training session, please contact Gloria Lappost at (239) 652-6914 or via email at Clorivel.Lappost@AAASWFL.org.

Emails to apply for retirement starting in 2025 are phonyThe Social Security Administration (SSA) Office of the Inspector General (OIG) is warning the public of a new scam tactic by criminals trying to lure potential retirement applicants to their site.This recent scam email appears to be from SSA and has the subject line: Claim Benefits! It states Important: Apply for Your Social Security Benefits Starting in 2025. The link within the phony email is disguised as SSAs official website, www.ssa.gov or www.socialsecurity.gov. Clicking on the link within the email redirects individuals to a fraudulent site.THIS EMAIL IS NOT FROM SSA.One example of this new imposter email is shown here. It is important to see that the email is from Social Administration, and reflects a personal or non-government email address. Government agencies always have .gov as part of their official email address.SSA OIG is advising you to always be cautious of responding to unsolicited emails that appear to be from an official government entity, such as SSA, or another federal agency. These emails are a variation of government imposter scams. DELETE IT. Dont click on links or respond to any text, email, phone call, or letter that has characteristics of a scam. See warning signs at ssa.gov/scam. To contact SSA for business purposes, visit ssa.gov to find the correct information.Scammers use benefits, benefit increases, prizes, or problems to attract your attention so that they can entice or intimidate unsuspecting persons with their ploys, said Michelle L. Anderson, Assistant Inspector General for Audit performing the duties of the Inspector General. Our priorities are to educate consumers on how to avoid these vicious attempts and to help you keep your personal identifying information and money secure. We will continue to tell you when we become aware of tactics such as this one.WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE A VICTIM Stop talking to the scammer. Notify financial institutions and safeguard accounts. Report Social Security-related scams to SSA OIG (oig.ssa.gov). Contact local law enforcement and file a police report. If you lost money, file a complaint with the Federal Bureau of Investigation Internet Crime Complaint Center (ic3.gov). Report other scams to the Federal Trade Commission (ftc.gov). Keep financial transaction information and the record of all communications with the scammer.To view the Scam Alert, click here (add attachment, media release). And visit https://www.ssa.gov/scam/ to learn how to protect yourself and report Social Security related scams.If you suspect Medicare fraud, contact your local SHIP-SMP program by calling the Helpline at 866-413-5337.

Many people assume that their family members would automatically be able to make decisions about medical treatments if they were to become incapacitated. However, rules vary greatly from state to state:Your family may have to go through a costly and time-consuming court process to get the legal right to make medical decisions for you.Your family members may disagree on who should make medical decisions on your behalf, which could lead to legal disputes.Someone unfamiliar with your preferences may be placed in charge of your treatment choices.Its important to have a plan ahead of time to avoid disagreements around treatment issues and to ensure your wishes are honored if you are incapacitated. Advance directives, living wills, health care proxies, and powers of attorney can help ensure that decisions made on your behalf meet your needs and preferences.Important documents to have include:Health care proxy Names someone you trust as your proxy, or your  agent, to express your wishes and make health care decisions for you if youre unable to speak for yourself.Living will A written record of the type of medical care you would want in specified situations.Advance directive Often refers to a combination including both a living will and health care proxy documents.Power of attorney Names someone you trust as your agent to make property, financial, and other legal decisions on your behalf.For detailed tips on preparing these documents download the Preparing for Future Health Care Needs handout by the Medicare Rights Center. To understand how Medicare covers hospice and for answers to other Medicare coverage questions, contact your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). You can visit www.shiphelp.org or call your local SHINE Medicare Counselors at 1-866-413-5337. 

Medicares Open Enrollment runs October 15 through December 7 and is the time of year when you can make certain changes to your Medicare coverage. The last change you make will take effect on January 1. Take action during Medicares Open Enrollment to make sure your coverage will meet your needs in 2025.What changes can you make during Medicares Open Enrollment?Joining a new Medicare Advantage Plan or Part D prescription drug planSwitching from Original Medicare to Medicare AdvantageSwitching from Medicare Advantage to Original Medicare (with or without a Part D plan)Call 1-800-MEDICARE (633-4227) or visit www.Medicare.gov to make changes.Review your coverage for 2025Medicare Advantage and Part D plans usually change each year. Make sure that your drugs will be covered next year and that your providers and pharmacies will still be in the plans network.Original Medicare: Visit www.Medicare.gov or read the 2025 Medicare & You handbook to learn about Medicares benefits for the upcoming year.Medicare Advantage or Part D plan: Read your plans Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) and Evidence of Coverage (EOC).What to consider when choosing a new plan:Ask yourself the following questions before choosing a Part D drug plan:Does the plan cover all the medications I take?Does the plan have restrictions on my drugs?How much will I pay for monthly premiums and the annual deductible?How much will I pay at the pharmacy (copay/coinsurance) for each drug I take?Is my pharmacy in the plans preferred network? Can I fill my prescription by mail order?What is the plans star rating?If I have other drug coverage, will the Medicare drug plan work with this coverage?For a full checklist of questions to ask before choosing a Medicare Advantage Plan, where to find Medicares Plan Finder tool, and tips on protecting yourself from marketing violations and misleading marketing, download SHIPs full handout here.Where can I go for more help?State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP): Contact your SHIP if you have questions about any notices you receive or have experienced a potential marketing violation. SHIP counselors can help you review your options and pick a plan that meets your needs. SHIP counselors provide trusted, unbiased, and individualized Medicare counseling. Contact information for your local SHIP is below. Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP): Contact your local SMP if you believe you have experienced a potential marketing violation. SMP team members can help you to prevent, detect, and report potential Medicare fraud, errors, or abuse.In Southwest Florida, SHIP/SMP are also known as SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders), to contact your local SHINE Medicare Counselors, call toll-free 866-413-5337 or visit floridashine.org.The Medicare Rights Center is the author of portions of the content in these materials but is not responsible for any content not authored by the Medicare Rights Center. This document was supported, in part, by grant numbers 90SATC0002 and 90MPRC0002 from the Administration for Community Living (ACL), Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C. 20201. Grantees undertaking projects under government sponsorship are encouraged to express freely their findings and conclusions. Points of view or opinions do not, therefore, necessarily represent official Administration for Community Living policy. [September 2024]

 Medicare covers a lot, but Medicare Parts A and B alone may not offer all the coverage you want or need. For example, Medicare doesnt cover most dental, vision, and hearing care, including hearing aids. It also doesnt cover most non-emergency transportation or care outside of the United States. Even when Medicare does cover your care, there may be out-of-pocket costs left to you, like copays and coinsurances, that can really add up. Today well discuss ways to add on to your Medicare to help you access these types of care. A quick-reference handout is available here for download.Medigaps: Covering out-of-pocket costsMedigaps are health insurance policies that work with Original Medicarenot with Medicare Advantage. They are sold by private insurance companies.If you have a Medigap, it pays part or all of certain remaining costs after Original Medicare pays first. Medigaps may cover outstanding deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments.Medigaps may also cover health care costs that Medicare does not cover at all, like emergency care received when travelling abroad.If you want to purchase a Medigap policy, you need to find out the best time to buy one in your state. In most states, insurance companies must only sell you a policy at certain times and if you meet certain requirements. If you miss your window of opportunity to buy a Medigap, your costs may go up, your options may be limited, or you may not be able to buy a Medigap at all. Even if you do not have the right to buy a Medigap in your state, you may still be able to buy a policy if a company agrees to sell you one. However, know that companies can charge you a higher price because of your health status or other reasons.Medicare Advantage Plans: Supplemental benefitsMedicare Advantage Plans may cover things that Medicare cant cover. These are called supplemental benefits. Examples of common supplemental benefits are: dental care, vision care, hearing aids, and gym memberships.Medicare Advantage Plans can also offer benefits that are not primarily health-related for beneficiaries who have chronic illnesses, like meal delivery, transportation for non-medical needs, and home air cleaners.Medicaid: For limited income and assetsMedicaid in your state may cover dental, vision, hearing, long-term care, or transportation services. You may qualify for Medicaid if you have a low income and minimal assets. Contact your local Medicaid office to learn if you qualify.Stand-alone plans: Covering what Medicare doesntYou can purchase stand-alone dental, vision, or hearing plans through private insurance companies.Strategies for low-cost care outside of MedicareYou can find low-cost care for services not covered by Medicare, in places like Federally Qualified Health Centers or Community Health Centers. Schools and facilities that train dentists, optometrists, and audiologists may also offer low-cost care. Students work with patients under the supervision of experienced, licensed providers.Look out for over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aid scamsMedicare does not cover most hearing care, including hearing aids. Because OTC hearing aids are a new product, older adults may not realize that they can buy one without a prescription from a doctor. Fraudsters may take advantage of this, stealing a persons Medicare number when selling the devices. Also, some companies selling OTC hearing aids may make false claims, have unclear or misleading labels, and fail to offer the guarantees and customer support they promise.Below are red flags that may point to hearing aid scams, identified by the National Council on Aging (NCOA):Unknown brand names: Instead, look for well-known and reputable brands with reviews on hearing and retail websites. You can learn about a companys reputation online at the Better Business Bureau or TrustPilot.Misleading labels: Make sure your device is clearly labeled as a hearing aid (rather than, for example, a hearing enhancement) to avoid buying a different kind of product.Fake FDA registration certificates: The FDA does not issue registration certificates, so this could be a scam or misleading marketing.Extremely low prices: Companies selling hearing aids far below the price of other companies may be trying to sell you a hearing product other than a hearing aid, or trying to sell you a very poor-quality device. Consider your budget but remember that a deal that seems too good to be true, may be just that.No trial period or warranty: Most companies offer at least a 30-day trial period to test new devices, and some offer even more. Be cautious of companies that dont offer these trial periods or warranties.Lack of customer support: Avoid companies that dont clearly have contact information on their website. Reputable companies should be easy to contact with issues youre experiencing.Unsupported claims: There is currently no cure for hearing loss, so be wary of companies that claim their products can cure hearing loss or offer immediate relief from symptoms.Hearing aid scams can range from dishonest companies misleading you to someone calling to tell you Medicare will cover a hearing aid in an attempt to get your Medicare number or promise you other unneeded medical supplies.For more information call your local SHIP/SMP contact. In Florida the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) is known as SHINE. Call 866-413-5337 toll-free, email shineinfo@aaaswfl.org, or visit floridashine.org.

What is preventive care?Preventive care is the care you receive to prevent illness, detect medical conditions, and keep you healthy. During this Medicare Minute, well look at Medicares coverage of preventive services and review the screening, vaccines, and counseling that can help you stay on top of your health. A quick reference handout is available for download that will include everything covered in this blog post and more.Medicare Part B covers many preventive services with no cost-sharing, as long as you meet the eligibility requirements and follow the guidelines below.Is it covered by Medicare?Preventive services recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force are covered with zero cost-sharing, so you will not owe any deductible or coinsurance when you receive them. You can find a list of those services on Medicare.govs page on Preventive & Screening Services. You can also call 1-800-MEDICARE or read your Medicare & You handbook for a full list.Do I meet the coverage criteria?For many of the covered preventive services, you have to meet certain criteria based on your age, sex, or certain risk factors. Your health care provider should be able to tell if you qualify.Am I seeing the right kind of provider?Original Medicare: To get preventive services with no cost-sharing, you should see a provider that accepts assignment, also known as a Medicare-participating provider. Many providers accept assignment, but you should ask your provider in advance if they accept assignment. If you see a non-participating or opt-out provider, you may be responsible for part or all of the cost of your service.Medicare Advantage: It is usually best to receive services from an in-network provider. Contact your provider to learn if they are in-network for your plan, or contact the plan to learn which providers are in-network. If you go out-of-network, you might be responsible for part or all of the cost of your preventive service.What will happen during my annual wellness visit?The Annual Wellness Visit (AWV) is a yearly appointment with your primary care provider to create or update a personalized prevention plan. Medicare Part B covers the AWV if you have had Part B for over 12 months and you have not received an AWV or your Welcome to Medicare Visit in the last 12 months.At your Annual Wellness Visit, your doctor may:Check your height, weight, blood pressure, and other routine measurementsGive you a health risk assessment, which might include a questionnaire that you complete before or during the visitReview your functional ability and level of safetyLearn about your medical and family historyMake a list of your current providers, durable medical equipment (DME) suppliers, and medicationsCreate a 5-10 year screening schedule or check-listIdentify risk factors and current medical and mental health conditions along with related current or recommended treatmentsScreen for cognitive impairment, including diseases such as Alzheimers and other forms of dementiaScreen for depressionProvide health advice and referrals to health education and/or preventive counseling services aimed at reducing risk factors and promoting wellnessWhat the annual wellness is not:It is not a head-to-toe physicalAlthough Medicare Part B covers the Annual Wellness Visit with no cost-sharing, depending on your visit, you may be responsible for paying a facility fee and/ or cost-sharing on any diagnostic services you receiveWhat is genetic testing fraud and abuse?Genetic testing fraud or abuse can occur when Medicare is billed for genetic screenings or tests that are not medically necessary and were not ordered by the beneficiarys treating physician. We often see scammers offering cheek swab tests to obtain a beneficiarys Medicare information, which the scammers can then use for fraudulent billing or medical identity theft. Genetic testing is often advertised as one of the following:Cardio/cardiac genetic screening/testDNA screening/testHereditary cancer screening/testDementia screening/testParkinsons screening/testPharmacogenetics (medication metabolization)Look for these red flags to avoid genetic testing fraud and abuse:A company offers you free testing without your treating physicians orderA company uses telemedicine to offer you testing over the phone and arrange for an unrelated physician or teledoc to order the testsMedicare is billed (often thousands of dollars) for a broad range of genetic tests that you do not request or possibly even receiveA company requests your Medicare number at a health fair, senior center, assisted living facility, mall, farmers market, or church-sponsored wellness eventTo prevent genetic testing fraud and abuse, make sure to work with your trusted health care provider on your preventive health. Protect your personal information and Medicare number. Always read your Medicare statements for any suspicious charges. And finally, if you received a cheek swab or genetic screening/test that was not medically necessary, report your concerns to your local Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP).Who to contact for more information:Your doctor: If you would like to schedule preventive care (such as an Annual Wellness Visit or Welcome to Medicare visit) contact your doctor or health care provider.State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP): Contact your SHIP if you would like to learn more about how Medicare covers preventive services or if you are confused why a provider is charging you for preventive care. SHIP counselors are trained and trusted to provide unbiased Medicare counseling. In Florida the program is referred to as SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders). In Southwest Florida, call toll-free: 866-413-5337 or email shineinfo@aaaswfl.org.Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP): Contact your SMP if you believe a provider is fraudulently billing you for preventive services or if you have experienced genetic testing fraud. SMPs empower and assist Medicare beneficiaries, their families, and caregivers to prevent, detect, and report potential health care fraud. In Southwest Florida, call toll-free: 866-413-5337 or email shineinfo@aaaswfl.org.The Medicare Rights Center is the author of portions of the content in these materials but is not responsible for any content not authored by the Medicare Rights Center. This document is supported by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $2,534,081 with 100 percent funding by ACL/HHS.  The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by ACL/HHS, or the U.S. Government.

Established in 1963, Older Americans Month (OAM) is celebrated every May. Led by a federal agency, the Administration for Community Living (ACL), OAM is a time to recognize older Americans contributions, highlight aging trends, and reaffirm commitments to serving the older adults in our communities.This years theme, Powered by Connection, focuses on the profound impact that meaningful connections have on the well-being and health of older adults a relationship underscored by the U.S. Surgeon Generals Advisory on the Healing Effects of Social Connection and Community.Its not just about having someone to chat with, its about the transformative potential of community engagement in enhancing mental, physical, and emotional well-being. By recognizing and nurturing the role that connectedness plays, we can mitigate issues like loneliness, ultimately promoting healthy aging for more Americans.How can community groups, businesses, and organizations mark OAM?Spread the word about the mental, physical, and emotional health benefits of social connection through professional and personal networks.Encourage social media followers to share their thoughts and stories of connection using hashtag #PoweredByConnection to inspire and uplift.Promote opportunities to engage, like cultural activities, recreational programs, and interactive virtual events.Connect older adults with local services, such as counseling, that can help them overcome obstacles to meaningful relationships and access to support systems.Host connection-centric events or programs where older adults can serve as mentors to peers, younger adults, or youths.What can individuals do to connect?Invite more connection into your life by finding a new passion, joining a social club, taking a class, or trying new activities in your community.Stay engaged in your community by giving back through volunteering, working, teaching, or mentoring.Invest time with people to build new relationships and discover deeper connections with your family, friends, colleagues, or neighbors.For free local events and services, visit our event calendar. For more information, visit the official OAM website and follow ACL on X, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #OlderAmericansMonth.

You dont have to be a U.S. citizen to be eligible for Medicare. If you are not a U.S. citizen, but are lawfully present, you may be able to get Medicare coverage, depending on your situation.  There are two ways non-citizens can be eligible for Medicare. Lets learn how.Do you qualify for Federal Disability or Retirement benefits?You will qualify for Medicare if you qualify to receive or currently receive:Social Security retirement benefitsRailroad Retirement Benefits (RRB)Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)Regardless of your citizenship or how long you have lived in the U.S., if you qualify for these benefits, you qualify for Medicare.These benefits are tied to your U.S. work history, or the work history of a spouse or sometimes family member. Even if you have not been in the U.S. long or have not worked long enough, you may still qualify based on your spouses work history or benefits.If you arent sure if you qualify for these benefits or have enough work history, contact the Social Security Administration (SSA).*If youre eligible and ready to enroll, or have questions about Medicare eligibility and enrollment, you should contact SSA. You can call the national helpline (800-772-1213), go to www.ssa.gov, or visit your local branch to enroll.Are you a lawful permanent resident who has lived in the U.S. for 5+ years?If you meet both of these requirementsyou are a lawful permanent resident and have been in theU.S. for 5 years prior to enrolling in Medicareyou are eligible for Medicare:Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs)  LPRs are non-citizens who are allowed to live in the U.S. indefinitely. To get LPR status and a green card, you must apply with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.Five-Year Residency Requirement  The five years begins the day someone arrives in the U.S. with the intention of establishing a home, not just visiting. You can still leave the U.S. temporarily, meaning for no more than six months.*Use the National Immigration Legal Services Directory to find immigration service providers in your area. You can find the directory at www.immigrationadvocates.org/legaldirectory/.Be aware of people trying to steal your Medicare numberMedical identity theft happens when someone steals your personal information and uses it to get medical treatment or equipment and bills your insurance for it. Healthcare companies can try to reach people in various ways, like television commercials, radio ads, events, mailings, phone calls, and text messages. Some of them may be legitimate, but some could potentially be scammers trying to steal your personal and/or medical identity information.Protect your Medicare and/or health ID number and only share it with your health care provider or trusted person. Protect your Medicare card like you would a credit card. Scammers have various ways of stealing someones Medicare number and other personal information.Detect medical identity theft by reading your Medicare statements often. If you see services or prescriptions that you didnt know about or receive, your Medicare and/or health ID number could be considered compromised.Report potential medical identity theft to your local SMP. It can affect your medical and health insurance records, and your ability to receive services or equipment in the future when it is medically needed. It can also lead to incorrect costs for both you and the Medicare program. Reasons to report:You gave out your Medicare and/or health ID number:Over the phone or internet to someone offering additional benefits, durable medical equipment, genetic testing, COVID-19 testing/supplies, back braces, etc.At a fair or other gathering as a check-in or to receive free servicesIn response to a television or radio commercial, Facebook ad, postcard, or print ad requesting a Medicare numberYou are contacted by a debt collection company for a provider bill  you do not oweYou received boxes of bracers, testing kits, or other medical supplies in the mail that you did not requestA Medicare and/or a Medicare Advantage plan denies or limits your coverage or benefit because of a medical condition you do not haveDownload the full handout with local SHIP/SMP contact information to resources and directories (pdf).For more information call 866-413-5337 or email shineinfo@aaaswfl.org for assistance in Southwest Florida.The Medicare Rights Center is the author of portions of the content in these materials but is not responsible for any content not authored by the Medicare Rights Center. This document was supported, in part, by grant numbers 90SATC0002 and 90MPRC0002 from the Administration for Community Living (ACL), Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C. 20201. Grantees undertaking projects under government sponsorship are encouraged to express freely their findings and conclusions. Points of view or opinions do not, therefore, necessarily represent official Administration for Community Living policy.

Most Medicare drug plans have a coverage gap (also called the donut hole). This means theres a temporary limit on what the drug plan will cover for drugs. You enter the coverage gap when your total drug costsincluding what you and your plan have paid for your drugsreaches a certain limit.In 2024, that limit is $5,030. While in the coverage gap, you are responsible for 25% of the cost of your drugs.A SHIP (SHINE) counselor can answer your Medicare questions and help you understand coverage and options!To reach SHINE, call the Helpline at 866-413-5337.

If you or a loved one will soon be eligible for Medicare, join us for this Medicare Minute! Well go over all the basics you should knowfrom enrollment periods to coverage choices and beyond.Some people are automatically enrolled in Medicare. For example, if you are already receiving retirement benefits from Social Security when you become Medicare-eligible, or if youve been collecting Social Security Disability Insurance for two years. If you are automatically enrolled, you should receive a package in the mail with your Medicare insurance card telling you so. Otherwise, there are three times to enroll in Parts A and B:Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): The three months before, the month of, and the three months after your 65th birthday.Special Enrollment Period (SEP): Allows you to delay Medicare enrollment without owing a late enrollment penalty. You may qualify for an SEP if:You or your spouse (or sometimes another family member) are still working, and you are covered by the employer health insurance. Note that you shouldnt delay Medicare enrollment if this employer coverage pays secondary to Medicare.You have experienced other exceptional circumstances, like losing Medicaid coverage, being released from incarceration, being misinformed by an employer, or being impacted by an emergency or disaster.General Enrollment Period (GEP): Every year from January 1 through March 31. You may owe a late enrollment penalty and face gaps in coverage if you use the GEP.View the full New to Medicare handout by the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) below.The Medicare Rights Center is the author of portions of the content in these materials but is not responsible for any content not authored by the Medicare Rights Center. This document was supported, in part, by grant numbers 90SATC0002 and 90MPRC0002 from the Administration for Community Living (ACL), Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C. 20201. Grantees undertaking projects under government sponsorship are encouraged to express freely their findings and conclusions. Points of view or opinions do not, therefore, necessarily represent official Administration for Community Living policy. [April 2024]New to Medicare Medicare is the federal government program that provides health care coverage, or health insurance. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is the federal agency that runs Medicare. The program is funded in part by Social Security and Medicare taxes you pay on your income, in part through premiums that people with Medicare pay, and in part by the federal budget. Some people are eligible for Medicare due to their age, while others are eligible due to having a disability or chronic condition. If you are new to Medicare, there can be a lot to learn around your enrollment and coverage choices.  Medicare Part A (inpatient coverage) and Part B (outpatient coverage) Some people are automatically enrolled in Medicare. For example, if you are already receiving retirement benefits from Social Security when you become Medicare-eligible, or if youve been collecting Social Security Disability Insurance for two years. If you are automatically enrolled, you should receive a package in the mail with your Medicare insurance card telling you so. Otherwise, there are three times to enroll in Parts A and B:   Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): The three months before, the month of, and the three months after your 65th birthday.     Special Enrollment Period (SEP): Allows you to delay Medicare enrollment without owing a late enrollment penalty. You may qualify for an SEP if:      You or your spouse (or sometimes another family member) are still working, and you are covered by the employer health insurance. Note that you shouldnt delay Medicare enrollment if this employer coverage pays secondary to Medicare.       You have experienced other exceptional circumstances, like losing Medicaid coverage, being released from incarceration, being misinformed by an employer, or being impacted by an emergency or disaster.    General Enrollment Period (GEP): Every year from January 1 through March 31. You may owe a late enrollment penalty and face gaps in coverage if you use the GEP.   New to Medicare Choosing between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage is a big choice when you are new to Medicare. Below are some key differences to consider.  To discuss your options with a Medicare counselor, you can contact your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). Find your local SHIP by visiting www.shiphelp.org or call 877-839-2675.     Original Medicare Medicare Advantage Costs Part A and Part B costs, including monthly Part B premium. 20% coinsurance for Medicare-covered services if you see a participating provider and after meeting your deductible. Cost-sharing depends on the plan. Usually pay a copayment for in-network care. Plans may charge a monthly premium in addition to Part B premium. Supplemental insurance Have the choice to pay an additional premium for a Medigap policy to cover Medicare cost-sharing. Cannot purchase a Medigap policy. Provider access Can see any provider and use any facility that accepts Medicare (participating and non-participating). Typically, can only see in-network providers. Some plans allow you to see out-of-network providers at a higher cost. Referrals Do not need referrals for specialists. Typically need referrals for specialists. Drug coverage Must sign up for a stand-alone Part D prescription drug plan. In most cases, plan provides prescription drug coverage (you may be required to pay a higher premium). Other benefits Does not cover routine vision, hearing, or dental services. May cover additional services, including vision, hearing, and/or dental (you may owe an extra premium) Out-of-pocket limit No out-of-pocket limit. Annual out-of-pocket limit. Plan pays the full cost of your care after you reach the limit.      New to Medicare Prescription drug plans: Part D is provided only through private insurance companies that have contracts with the federal government. If you have Original Medicare and want to get Part D coverage, you must choose and enroll in a stand-alone prescription drug plan. Typically, you should sign up for Part D when you first become eligible to enroll in Medicare, unless you have other creditable drug coverage. Most Medicare Advantage Plans include drug coverage.  Medigaps: Medigaps are health insurance policies that offer standardized benefits to work with Original Medicare, not with Medicare Advantage. They are sold by private insurance companies. If you have a Medigap, it pays part or all of certain remaining costs after Original Medicare pays first. Medigaps may also cover emergency care when travelling abroad. You should usually enroll in a Medigap during your open enrollment period, the six-month period that begins the month you are 65 or older and enrolled in Medicare Part B. Depending on your situation and the state in which you live, you may be able to enroll at other times, too.   My Health Care Trackers.My Health Care Trackers are fraud-fighting tools that are free through the Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) program. My Health Care Trackers include:  Space to take notes on your medical appointment, including the date, your providers name, the reason for your visit, length of appointment, and care received.   Instructions on how you can compare your notes to what was billed on your Medicare statements.   Contact information for relevant agencies, such as Medicare, the Social Security Administration (SSA), the Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) and the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP).   Using a My Health Care Tracker and comparing your notes with your Medicare statements is a great way to find potential billing errors, as well as Medicare fraud, abuse, or a stolen medical identity. Ultimately, it can help you reduce your health care costs and protect yourself against potential Medicare fraud, errors, and abuse. Contact your local Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) to receive a My Health Care Tracker or need assistance with reading your Medicare statements. Contact information for your local SMP is on the final page of this document. New to Medicare Local SHIP contact information Local SMP contact information SHIP toll-free: 1-866-413-5337 SMP toll-free: 1-866-413-5337 SHIP email:  shineinfo@aaaswfl.org SMP email:  shineinfo@aaaswfl.org SHIP website:  www.floridashine.org SMP website:  www.floridashine.org      To find a SHIP in another state: Call 877-839-2675 (and say Medicare when prompted) or visit www.shiphelp.org          To find an SMP in another state: Call 877-808-2468 or visit www.smpresource.org SHIP Technical Assistance Center: 877-839-2675 | www.shiphelp.org | info@shiphelp.org SMP Resource Center: 877-808-2468 | www.smpresource.org | info@smpresource.org 2023 Medicare Rights Center | www.medicareinteractive.org  |   The Medicare Rights Center is the author of portions of the content in these materials but is not responsible for any content not authored by the Medicare Rights Center. This document was supported, in part, by grant numbers 90SATC0002 and 90MPRC0002 from the Administration for Community Living (ACL), Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C. 20201. Grantees undertaking projects under government sponsorship are encouraged to express freely their findings and conclusions. Points of view or opinions do not, therefore, necessarily represent official Administration for Community Living policy. [April 2024]  

Whether to enroll in Part B or use FEHB as primary coverage is a personal decision, based on your individual circumstances. You should look at the costs and benefits of each insurance plan and make the choice thats best for you.Federal Employee Health Benefits (FEHB)Cover current and retired government employeesAdministered by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM)Can be:Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs): Have networks of providers that you usually must see. Out of network costs may be lower.Fee-for-service (FFS) plans: Allow you to see any medical provider, but you may have higher costs.When you become Medicare-eligible, you have a few options:Keep FEHB and turn down Medicare.Even if you have FEHB retiree coverage, it will continue to provide you with primary coverage if you dont enroll in Medicare. In this way, FEHB retiree coverage is different from most other retiree coverage.If you choose this option, consider turning down Medicare Part B but still enrolling in Part A. Part A is usually premium-free, meaning that you can have this additional coverage at no cost to you.Keep FEHB and enroll in Medicare.The two will work together to cover your health care costs, but you will owe premiums for both.Disenroll from FEHB and enroll in Medicare.You might not be able to enroll in FEHB again in the future if you change your mind.For a full list of questions to ask yourself when choosing the option that is best for you and more on identifying billing errors download this helpful handout by the Medicare Rights Center.Who to contact for more information: Contact your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) if you want to discuss your Medicare enrollment options with a Medicare counselor. Contact your Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) if you may have experienced Medicare fraud, errors, or abuse. In Southwest Florida it is 866-413-5337 or email shineinfo@aaaswfl.org. Contact the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) if youre a federal employee or retiree and want to learn more about FEHB. You can call 317-212-0454 or visit www.opm.gov/healthcare-insurance. Contact United States Postal Service (USPS) if you are a USPS employee, retiree, or eligible family member and need more information on PSHB. Current employees can visit www.liteblue.usps.gov and retirees can visit www.keepingposted.org.The Medicare Rights Center is the author of portions of the content in these materials but is not responsible for any content not authored by the Medicare Rights Center. This document was supported, in part, by grant numbers 90SATC0002 and 90MPRC0002 from the Administration for Community Living (ACL), Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C. 20201. Grantees undertaking projects under government sponsorship are encouraged to express freely their findings and conclusions. Points of view or opinions do not, therefore, necessarily represent official Administration for Community Living policy. [April 2024]

The Adult Protective Services Program, a division of the Florida Department of Children and Families, is dedicated to preventing further harm to vulnerable adults who are victims of abuse, neglect, exploitation, or self-neglect, as outlined in Chapter 415, Florida Statutes.The Florida Abuse Hotline plays an important role in this process by screening allegations of adult abuse or neglect. It assesses whether the information meets the criteria for an abuse report. If the criteria are met, a protective investigation is initiated to determine if there is evidence of abuse, neglect, or exploitation; to assess immediate or long-term risks to the victim; and to identify any additional services needed to ensure the victims well-being.If you see or suspect anyone one of being abused or neglected. Please reach out via the Abuse Hotline 1-800-962-2873 or via this link: https://reportabuse.myflfamilies.com/s/Elder Abuse Prevention TrainingThe AAASWFL provides complimentary training on Elder Abuse Prevention for both professionals and community members. Participants will receive a certificate of completion upon finishing the training. For more information or to schedule a training session, please contact Gloria Lappost at (239) 652-6914 or via email at Clorivel.Lappost@AAASWFL.org.