When should you enroll in Medicare?

You should enroll in Medicare 3 months prior your 65th birthday.

What’s the monthly premium that most of you will pay for hospital insurance (Medicare Part A)?

If you are a US citizen who has worked 10 or more years and paid FICA taxes, there is no premium for Medicare Part A.

How many routine physical exams are you allowed each year?
How many are you allowed in a Medicare lifetime?

You are allowed only one routine physical examination during a lifetime of Medicare enrollment. This routine physical must be performed within 12 months of enrollment.

What are the requirements for admission to a Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF)?

1. You must spend three consecutive days in the hospital before admission to a SNF. The day of hospital discharge does not count as one of the three hospital days. 2. You must be admitted to the SNF for the same problem as the hospital stay. 3. You must be admitted to the SNF within 30 days of hospital discharge.

How long are you allowed to stay in a SNF before you are required to pay the entire bill?

100 days.

What is Medicare Part C or Medicare Advantage (MA)?

Medicare Advantage programs are private insurance companies that provide hospital, medical and sometimes prescription drug coverage.

What program is MA designed to replace?

Medigap (Medicare Supplemental Plans)

What is your out-of-pocket expense during 2009 for Prescription Drug Plans before Medicare picks up 95% of the tab?

$4350.