How do I check the status of a Medicare claim?
To check the status of Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) or Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) claims – Log into (or create) your secure Medicare account. You’ll usually be able to see a claim within 24 hours after Medicare processes it. Check your Medicare Summary Notice (MSN) The MSN is a notice that people with […]
Understanding Your Medicare Card
As soon as you enroll in Medicare, you will receive your Medicare card. You must bring your Medicare card to all medical and health services appointments. If you are speaking with Medicare or your health insurance or prescription drug company, you should also have this information available. Here are detailed instructions on what to do […]
What are my Medicare rights?
Medicare beneficiaries have fundamental rights and protections that ensure fair treatment and access to healthcare. You have the right to be treated with courtesy, dignity, and respect at all times by healthcare providers and Medicare representatives. Federal law protects you from discrimination based on race, color, national origin, disability, age, sex, or religion. Your personal […]
Medicare Drug Price Negotiation – When will Medicare drug discounts begin?
As a result of the Inflation Reduction Act Medicare bill be able to negotiate directly with drug manufacturers to lower the price of some of the costliest single-source brand-name Medicare Part B and Part D drugs. This law requires drug companies that raise their drug prices faster than the rate of inflation to pay Medicare […]
HHS makes ownership data for all Medicare-certified hospitals publicly available
The Department of Health and Human Services released on the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services website detailed information on the ownership of more than 7,000 hospitals certified to participate in the Medicare program. The data elements include: * Enrollment information such as organization name, type, practice location addresses (e.g., off campus), National Provider Identifier […]
Medicare Part B Outpatient Costs 2026
Medicare Part B outpatient costs for 2026 include a standard monthly premium of $202.90, up from $185 in 2025. This premium covers outpatient services like doctor visits, lab work, mental health care, and more. For most outpatient services, you’ll pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount after meeting your $283 annual deductible. If you receive care […]
Medicare Treatment for Alcoholism and Substance Use Disorders
Mental illness and substance abuse disorders are covered by Medicare, but special rules limit coverage and reimbursement. Mental health, behavioral health, and substance abuse disorders are not as well covered by Medicare as other services. Treatment for Alcoholism and Substance Use Disorders Alcoholism and substance use disorders can be treated both inpatient and outpatient under […]
Medicare Coverage Gap changes for 2026
Big changes continue for Medicare drug coverage in 2026. The coverage gap, also known as the donut hole, was officially eliminated on December 31, 2024. For 2026, Medicare Part D plans include a $2,050 annual cap on out-of-pocket costs for covered prescription drugs. Once you spend $2,050 out of pocket, including certain payments made on […]
Does Medicare Cover Weight Loss Programs?
If you have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more, Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance)covers obesity screenings and behavioral counseling to help you lose weight by focusing on diet and exercise. Medicare covers this counseling if your primary care doctor or other qualified practitioner gives the counseling in a primary care setting (like […]
Medicare and Medicaid: Can They Take Your Home?
As a general rule, Medicare does not cover long-term care facilities. As a result, Medicare does not pose a challenge to your clear title to your home. It is common for people in care settings to pay for their care. Some deplete their liquid assets over time and qualify for Medicaid assistance. For more information […]