Medicare is the federal health insurance program that provides health care coverage for Tennessee residents age 65 and older. Younger persons with certain qualifying disabilities or illnesses are eligible for this program. Anybody whose spouse is eligible for or already receive social security benefits or railroad retirement board benefits may not have to enroll again. If you are one of the Tennessee residents thinking that Medicare alone does not cover your health care cost, then you may choose to purchase additional plans, known as Medicare supplemental insurance plans. If you are located in Tennessee and looking for useful information to help you choose the right plan for you, this article can help.
Types of Medicare coverage in Tennessee
Medicare is divided into four parts:
Part A – Hospital Insurance
Part B – Medical Insurance
Part C – Medicare Advantage
Part D – Prescription Drug coverage
Original Medicare gives eligible people coverage for inpatient hospital care under its hospital insurance program (Part A). Under its medical insurance program (Part B) gives coverage for doctor services, preventive services and some durable medical equipment.
Medicare Advantage
This plan is known as plan C. It provides original Medicare benefits through private Medicare-approved insurance companies, while cost and plan details will differ among insurance companies. All Medicare advantage plans are required to offer at least the same amount of coverage as original Medicare Part A and Part B with only the exception of hospice care. Additional benefits may be included in most part C plans like, Prescription drug coverage and routine dental care, vision hearing, and wellness programs. Any one that enrolled in a Medicare Part C plan will still continue paying a monthly premium for part B.
Prescription Drug Coverage
Medicare Part D Prescription drug plans are available only through private Medicare approved insurance providers. This part D plan offers stand alone prescription coverage and can be added to your Medicare Part A & B insurance. Therefore, any Tennessee residents that enroll in a Medicare advantage prescription drug plan will get all Medicare coverage in a single plan, with continuous monthly payment of part B premium.
Applying for Medicare in Tennessee works the same as it does in any other state. To be eligible, you must be a United States citizen or legal permanent resident of at least five continuous years. Any resident that is 65 or older is eligible, persons under 65 with certain disabilities and those with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) are also qualified.
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