CMS announced policy shifts to simplify choices and improve prescription drug coverage. ~65M Americans enrolled as Medicare Advantage payments proposed essentially flat for 2027. CMS revamps Star Ratings to emphasize clinical quality, outcomes, and patient experience. Ratings changes: fewer admin metrics New depression screening follow-up measure Diabetes eye exams retained Read more
Some policymakers backed Medicare premium support, also called defined contribution or voucher programs. People with Medicare would get vouchers or coupons to buy health coverage. If vouchers fell short, people would pay remaining costs or lose coverage. The fact sheet said shortfalls were certain, since programs aimed to save Medicare Read more
Medicare beneficiaries face increasing fraud risks involving stolen personal information and unauthorized claims. To protect themselves, they should verify credentials of anyone contacting them, review Medicare summary notices for errors or suspicious charges, and safeguard their Medicare number. Reporting suspected fraud is crucial. Family members and financial advisers can assist Read more
Medicare open enrollment runs from October 15 to December 7, allowing enrollment or plan changes, including switching between original Medicare and Medicare Advantage. Original Medicare (Part A and B) holders can buy Medigap policies to cover out-of-pocket costs, but only within a six-month Medigap Open Enrollment period starting with Part Read more
Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) covers out-of-pocket costs for Original Medicare Part A and B, such as copays and deductibles. There are 10 standardized plan types, with Plan G offering the most coverage for new enrollees. Medigap doesn't cover prescription drugs, long-term care, dental, vision, or hearing aids. Premiums vary by Read more
Beyond Medicare, smaller programs can cut costs and stretch retirement savings. List highlights 10 programs; eligibility often depends on income, resources, or age. Food help: SNAP for 60+ with net monthly income <$1.305K. Medicare bill relief: QMB for Medicare-eligible with monthly income <$1.35K. Extra savings: Part D Extra Help, plus Read more
MPPP lets Part D beneficiaries spread out-of-pocket drug costs across the year. Zero interest, no fees—yet total medication costs stay the same. Pharmacy checkout changes: no counter copays; monthly bill comes from your plan. In 2026, 2025 participants staying in same plan were auto-renewed; new users auto-enrolled. Works with 2026 Read more
Medicare premium increases in 2026 may significantly reduce Social Security COLA gains for retirees. Part B premiums rise $17.90 monthly, consuming much of the average 2.8% COLA increase. Lower-income retirees not on Medicaid are most affected, as premiums directly reduce benefits. Higher-income retirees pay more via IRMAA, though the impact Read more
About 20% of people 65+ and 50% of those 75+ have cataracts, with many covered by Medicare. Medicare Part B generally covers cataract surgery, including lens replacement, with patients paying about 20% coinsurance after the deductible, roughly $635-$880 per eye. Medicare does not cover special lenses for astigmatism, which can Read more
About 12% of Americans have diabetes, with nearly 29% of seniors affected. Medicare covers diabetes care through Parts B, C, and D. Part B covers insulin pumps, therapeutic shoes, diabetes education, and specialist exams. Part C (Medicare Advantage) includes all Part B benefits plus extras like gym memberships and diabetes Read more