The Corona Virus has caused a lot of changes to your community and the world in 2020 and as the virus continues to spread, there are some things you should know if you’re enrolled in a Medicare plan.
Medicare covers the COVID-19 vaccine
The vaccine is being given in phases. The first group to receive the vaccine was healthcare personnel and long-term care facility residents. On January 11 the second phase (1b) will be distributed in Arizona to essential workers and people age 75 and older. People ages 65-74 and those with underlying conditions will be included in the third phase (1c). For information about the vaccine visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/index.html.
The vaccine is covered completely by Medicare, meaning there will be no cost to you. There is no way to pay to get early access to the vaccine or to add your name to a list to receive it. Do not share personal information with anyone asking you to pay for the vaccine.
Medicare covers COVID tests
Medicare also covers the cost of lab tests for COVID-19 and the antibody tests. All medically-necessary hospitalizations due to COVID-19 are also covered by Medicare but you may still pay hospital deductibles, copays or coinsurances as applicable.
Medicare has expanded telehealth
You may be able to see a doctor from the comfort of your own home and pay no copayment with Original Medicare. You can use a smart phone or computer to see a doctor, nurse practitioner, psychologist, social worker or therapist. Medicare is even allowing some patients to visit with a doctor by audio only. Completing monitoring, evaluation and preventative visits by phone can help keep you safe while reducing exposure to those who maybe sick. Check with your doctor to see if this is an option for you.
Your plan may cover more
Some Medicare Advantage plans may offer services like meal delivery or medical transport services. Check your plan for these services and if you’re interested in having additional services like this in the future, speak with Dee about plans that offer more.
Diane “Dee” Lee Insurance, is an experienced licensed insurance broker and representative providing Medicare (parts A and B), supplemental Medicare, Medicare Advantage (part C) and Medicare Prescription (part D) plans. Diane Dee Lee Insurance also provides healthcare plans to cover dental vision, hospital stays and more. Serving as a Medicare Broker in Deer Valley, Peoria, Glendale, the Phoenix-metro area, as well as the counties of Pima, Pinal, Coconino, Gila, Mohave, Apache, Navajo, Maricopa and Yavapai. Licensed and appointed with multiple insurance carriers, Dee is available to meet in person (with necessary social distancing guidelines) or virtually. Please call (623) 251-6612 or email dleeski@reagan.com