Lois’ mom moved to Northern Virginia last winter. Since she has been here, she has needed new doctors, a hospital for a surgical procedure, and a new physical therapist. Lois tried to be helpful in finding her mother names of … [Read more...]
Print This PageCMS Launches New Compare Tool, Featuring All Eight Healthcare Tools in One Place
September 8, 2020 by
Will Medicare Cover Alzheimer’s Brain Scans?
August 11, 2020 by
In the past few months, Julia has noticed that her mother, Betsy, has become increasingly forgetful. Betsy’s memory loss started out mild, including losing her keys and forgetting the day of the week, but is beginning to disrupt … [Read more...]
Print This PageGroundbreaking Decision Made on Observation Status Appeals
April 3, 2020 by
Q. My mother, Ellen, spent a week in the hospital and ended up having surgery. She was seen by doctors and nurses, given several tests, had the surgery, and then got sent to a nursing home for two weeks of rehabilitation. She is … [Read more...]
Print This PageWhen Healthcare is Not Accessible
March 20, 2020 by
Q. I grew up in Northern Virginia and still live here with my wife and two children. Five years ago, my parents sold their home and moved to a more rural part of the state to get away from the traffic and congestion. My mother … [Read more...]
Print This PagePart D Donut Hole is Closed, But Does That Mean It’s Going Away?
February 25, 2020 by
Rosanna (68) takes more than a dozen medications regularly to treat high blood pressure, heart disease, acid reflux, and other chronic problems. She signed up for Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage a few years ago, hoping … [Read more...]
Print This PageA Major Change to Therapy/Rehabilitation Coverage for Medicare Patients
February 21, 2020 by
Q. At age 62, my father, Paul, was diagnosed with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis). He can’t walk, get out of bed, or breathe on his own (he’s on a ventilator). He can’t use the toilet, bathe, or dress himself, either. After a … [Read more...]
Print This PageCritter Corner: Medicare Care Planning Benefit for People with Alzheimer’s
February 21, 2020 by
Dear Magic, My mother, Ingrid, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. We know that there is no cure and that it only gets worse as time progresses. We’d like to plan in advance to make sure she gets the support services and … [Read more...]
Print This PageThe Five Biggest Things to Know About Medicare
January 17, 2020 by
Q. I am turning 65 this year and will qualify for Medicare. I want to make sure I do things properly when it comes to applying. For instance, do I have to wait until I'm actually 65 to start the process, or can I start ahead of … [Read more...]
Print This PageCritter Corner: Can I Delay Enrollment of Medicare if I Have Not Yet Claimed Social Security?
January 17, 2020 by
Dear Oakley, I’m turning 65 and I have not yet claimed my Social Security benefits because I thought it would make good financial sense to wait. Can I choose to wait to enroll in Medicare as well? Thanks! Juana … [Read more...]
Print This PageSurprise Medical Bills May Become a Thing of the Past
December 10, 2019 by
Freya (80) had chest pains, a hacking cough, and a high fever when she was visiting her son, Andy. An ambulance was called and she was rushed to a hospital in her health plan’s network. As she headed home after a week's stay to … [Read more...]
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