Enrollment details

When should you enroll in Original Medicare

Even if you're a year or more away from turning 65, you can begin preparing now. These helpful tips can get you started on the right path.

Step One

Meet with the employee benefits manager if you are still working (or at a former job) to discuss retiree health benefits.

Step Two

Begin learning more about Medicare eligibility; the various parts of Medicare; what is and isn't covered; and when to enroll. Visit medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) for complete enrollment details.

Step Three

Ask your doctors if they participate in Medicare and if they accept Medicare assignment.

Step Four

Get health insurance quotes for Medicare supplemental plans. You are guaranteed acceptance with BCBSKS when enrolling within six months of your Part B effective date or 65th birthday.

Step Five

Apply for Medicare benefits (Part A and B) if retiring at age 65 (and not already receiving Social Security benefits) three months before your 65th birth month.

Step Six

Enroll in a Medicare supplemental plan. Remember – Medicare supplemental plans do not cover prescription drugs. This would need to be purchased separately.

Medicare Supplement coverage works with Medicare

Our Medicare supplement health coverage plan is designed specifically to supplement the expenses Medicare does not pay, so you have less out-of-pocket expenses to worry about.

The amounts below are for the services Harry received during treatment.
Harry broke his leg and was admitted to his local hospital for treatment.

Hospital charge

$4,000

Medicare pays
$2,400

Harry pays

(Medicare deductible and coinsurance)

$1,600

Doctor charge

$2,000

Medicare pays
$1,419

Total Harry pays

(includes $226 deductible and 20% of all other charges)

$581

With Medicare Parts A and B Harry pays $2,181 out of pocket.

With Medicare Parts A and B and Medicare Supplement Plan G Harry pays $226 out of pocket.

Hospital charge

$4,000

Medicare pays
$2,400

MedSupp pays
$1,600

Harry pays

$0

Doctor charge

$2,000

Medicare pays
$1,419

MedSupp pays
$355

Total Harry pays

$226 deductible

$226

With Medicare Parts A and B and Medicare Supplement Plan G Harry pays $226 out of pocket.

e_722 06/19 Not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. Government or the Federal Medicare Program. Rev. 06/19

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