Health Insurance

Medicare helps ensure that disabled or older folks access critical healthcare services. Yet, unfortunately, Medicare can sometimes fall short, and many people struggle to pay for the healthcare they need. Fortunately, you can take out Medicare supplemental plans to provide increased coverage and benefits. Standard Medicare coverage and supplemental plans can be very complex. If you're seeking help selecting Medicare supplement plans in Texas, contact The Carolyn Weeks Agency.

The Basics of Medicare Supplement Plans

First, there are a few types of Medicare. Regarding supplemental care, the two most pertinent programs are Medicare A and Medicare B:

• Medicare A- Provides coverage for hospital care, short-term nursing home stays, and hospice care.
• Medicare B- Covers doctor visits, lab services, preventative care, and outpatient care, among other things.

The above plans don't cover many types of long-term care, extensive stays in nursing homes, homemaking services, dental care, and other types of care. You may also have to pay deductibles, copayments, coinsurance, and other costs. Fortunately, there are ten available Medicare supplement plans that increase coverage: plans A, B, C, D, F, G, K, L, M, and N.

Private companies sell Medicare supplement plans. However, the Federal government regulates the benefits. Providers must sell plans to individuals with preexisting conditions, but they can wait up to six months before providing coverage for said conditions.

Enrolling in Medicare Supplement Plans in Texas

In Texas, individuals aged 65 or older can enroll in a Medicare supplement plan during an open enrollment period that runs for six months after they enroll in Medicare Part B. You must also be enrolled in Medicare Part A, however.

Individuals under the age of 65 with disabilities may also be able to sign up for a Medicare supplemental plan. You will enjoy a six-month open enrollment period but can only take out Medicare supplement Plan A.

As you can see, Medicare supplemental plan coverage is very nuanced. If you need help selecting a plan in Texas, contact The Carolyn Weeks Agency.