Medicare Coverage, California: What You Should Consider

Updated on September 14, 2020
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Medicare has been the ongoing support for older Americans for over half a century already. Ever since Medicare has been signed into law in 1965, it has helped our elderly shoulder the cost that might otherwise burden their meager savings or family members. Before, about 1 out of 2 senior citizens do not have insurance, according to this article, and has been proved to be an ongoing problem for this specific population. Most of these people opted to go without care, which was a tragedy the country took not too lightly, and the main reason this program existed in the first place.

It might be effective in and of itself, but the benefits the beneficiaries receive aren’t anything to scoff at either. With rising medical fees, a majority of the population might not afford it. But with this program, it ensures everyone, regardless of income or background, can also take advantage of the services.

What Is Medicare?

Simply put, Medicare is America’s national health insurance program for people aged 65 and over, some young adults with conditions, and patients with ESRD (End Stage Renal Disease) in need of dialysis or transplant. It has been a program that existed for 55 years and still counting until this very year.

Medicare has sections for what you may call as “parts”. Presently there are 4 parts, namely:

  • Part A – This part is also called “hospital coverage”. This section, the moment you enroll for the program, is immediately eligible for use alongside part B. Services for Part A include hospice care, hospital stays for conditions such as stroke and broken hips among others, and competent nursing care that will help you get back on your feet.
  • Part B – The next section is also known as “Medical service” or “Doctor and outpatient service”. As the name implies, it’s the section that covers the services of your doctor on top of the nursing care mentioned above. It also covers laboratory tests, ambulance fees, diagnostic tests, and other services for outpatients.
  • Part C – This section is somewhat of a luxury to have. It is called Medicare Advantage and is Part A and B combined plus other services, such as dental care and vision services. Lately, they’ve added to their care wheelchair ramps and shower grips, perfect for patient safety in older clients. Other than that, there are also meal deliveries and transportation of patients from their homes to the hospital and vice versa. 

Though this service seems like a great addition especially if you plan to live alone, some considerations must be recognized. In some states, Medicare Advantage is not available, as some counties in California. If you plan to move there, read the medicare coverage California FAQs to stay updated. Though it may not be a necessity like part A&B, Medicare Advantage has its niche to fill in as well and might be a reason for consideration.

  • Part D – Prescription Drugs are the main focus of this section. It generally pays for any of your doctor’s prescribed drugs and can be acquired through Medicare-approved plans. It covers generic and branded medications. 

What Benefits Can Medicare’s Parts Provide?

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  • It Has Various Services That Cover Every Medical Need. 

This program advocates for those that need care and couldn’t afford it when they retire, or for those sick few that have no means to continue their necessary life-long therapies. There are services you can make use of even if you do not get Part C. Part B has an annual check-up for free, and if you happen to get Part D, it will not fail you in providing quality medicine. From hospital stay to lab fees, Medicare has you covered.

  • A Well-Coordinated Medical Team

The doctors, nurses, and other medical staff will be in communication with each other in regards to your health. This means no miscommunication will happen, and the staff will be able to make updates and understand the progress of your plan even through the years. 

  • Cost-Effective Plans

If you plan to take Medicare Advantage, there is a study dedicated to analyzing the cost of traditional Medicare versus Part C. This research: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5710575/ has claimed you can save a lot from laboratory and medical equipment. But it also means you will have to switch to Plan C rather than the traditional Part A&B.

Conclusion

Before considering your move, it is recommended to check out the Medicare coverage of that county first. Some plans don’t carry out with your move, and others aren’t available. Better to switch where you aim to move than cancel the plan you’ve been paying for years.

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