Utah Medicare: What you need to know

Utah Medicare What you need to know

Hey there, Utahns! Did you know that those of you currently covered by a Medicare plan can switch or drop a plan during the upcoming Annual Election Period? That's right - from October 15 to December 7, 2023, you have the chance to choose a plan that's right for you and receive coverage starting on January 1, 2024. But, with so many offerings, how do you find what suits you best?

Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans

Let's start with Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans - they generally offer more benefits and coverage than Original Medicare (Parts A and B). Most importantly, they offer a combination of medical and prescription coverage, plus dental and vision options, among other added perks such as wellness support. Medical Advantage plans that are offered by private insurers like United Healthcare. But wait, there's more! MA plans also go beyond traditional health care coverage, offering nutrition support, wellness benefits, and various other services.

Medigap plans

For any costs not covered by Original Medicare, you can sign up for Medicare Supplement or Medigap plans. These can help cover your out-of-pocket costs that Original Medicare doesn't pay.

Part D is the prescription drug coverage

Finally, Part D is the prescription drug coverage you can choose from. If you or a loved one have Medicare, you can find out more about these four parts of Medicare and the health plan options available at medicare.gov.

Still feeling a little unsure? No worries, you can always reach out to a licensed professional you trust or find an insurance agent nearby by contacting a local senior center or visiting daas.utah.gov or shiphelp.org. Make an informed decision - you got this!

You can learn more about the four parts of Medicare and health plan options at medicare.gov

If you or a loved one has Medicare, check out Medicare.gov or call a licensed professional you trust to understand your needs and find a plan that works for you.

You can find an insurance agent nearby by contacting a local senior center or by visiting the Utah Department of Aging and Adult Services at daas.utah.gov or find local agents at shiphelp.org.

Eligibility for Medicare in Utah

Are you wondering who can benefit from Medicare? Here's the scoop: If you're 65 or older, you're generally eligible. But there's also good news for those with disabilities or End-Stage Renal Disease (permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or a transplant), and even ALS (also called Lou Gehrig's disease)—you may be able to get Medicare earlier!

Medicare Parts in Utah

Let’s talk about Medicare. It's an insurance program that covers medical care for people aged 65 and more. Medicare comes with a few parts, each taking care of a different aspect of healthcare.

Firstly, Part A (Hospital Insurance) which includes taking care of you at the hospital, nursing facility, hospice, and even assisting you at home. You’ll need Part B (Medical Insurance) for services and supplies from a doctor or other healthcare providers, home health care, and medical equipment like wheelchairs or walkers. Part B also offers loads of preventive services like screenings and annual wellness visits.

But, what about prescription coverage? Drug coverage is now included in Part D Medicare. You can even join a Medicare Advantage Plan with drug coverage and buy supplemental insurance that helps pay off any extra costs.

Hope that helps and happy healthy living!

Part A: Hospital Insurance

Part B: Medical Insurance

Part C: Medicare Advantage

Part D: Prescription Drug Coverage

Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) in Utah

Medicare Enrollment and Key Dates

Here's the latest scoop on Medicare enrollment:

The annual election period for 2023 happened between October 15 to December 7, 2022. So, if you’ve picked out your preferred plan during this time, it's slated for activation starting January 1, 2023.

The annual 5-star special enrollment period is a shorter window of December 8 to November 30.

From January 1 through March 31, there’s also the Medicare Advantage open enrollment period (MAOEP).

And don't forget: The Part A / Part B general enrollment period is January 1 through March 31.

Stay informed and stay covered!

The 2023 Medicare open enrollment period (annual election period) ran from October 15 to December 7, 2022. Plans selected during this window will take effect on January 1, 2023.
The annual 5-star special enrollment period is December 8 through November 30.
The Medicare Advantage open enrollment period (MAOEP) is January 1 through March 31.
The Part A / Part B general enrollment period is January 1 through March 31.

Resources and Assistance for Utah Medicare Beneficiaries

Hey there, are you wondering if Utah can give you a helping hand with your Medicare premiums? Well, guess what? You might be eligible for a Medicare Savings Program (MSP)! In Utah, these programs provide financial support that covers everything from Medicare Part A and B cost-sharing to Part B premiums.

There are three types of MSP you may qualify for, including Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB), Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB), and Qualified Individuals (QI). Each of these programs has its unique limits based on income levels, and the asset limit for all is $7,860 if single and $11,800 if married.

So, what are you waiting for? Check out if you're qualified to take advantage of these programs and lower your Medicare costs! Utah Department of Health, Medicare counseling programs, and local organizations that offer assistance.

7- Tips for Maximizing Your Medicare Benefits in Utah

Are you wondering if Utah can give you a helping hand with your Medicare premiums?