Congress passed a law in 1997 which made many changes in the Medicare program.  The law includes a section called Medicare + Choice, which created new health plan options.  This document provides you with a brief introduction to the changes in the Medicare program. You are still assured all of the basic Medicare benefits that you now enjoy.In addition, there are:

New benefits. Now there are new preventive care services to help you stay healthy, at no extra cost./p>

New choices. You can continue to receive Medicare benefits as you do now, or you may be able to change to a plan that gives you at least the same (possibly more) benefits. The choice is yours.

As you read through this document, remember:

If you are happy with the way you receive your Medicare benefits now, you don't have to do anything.

This document provides an overview of the new options which you may be seeing in your community.  It is not meant to provide you with detailed information to make a decision.  This document also marks the beginning of the National Medicare Education Program, which is the Health Care Financing Administration's effort to provide you with ongoing information about the Medicare program.  Each year starting in late 1999, you will receive a Medicare & You publication describing the Medicare program and providing you with details on the Medicare + Choice health plan options available in your area.  Other education activities include the www.medicare.gov Internet site and a 1-800 number which will be available nationally by October 1999.

For a brief introduction to the health plan options that may be available to you, read the information below. You must have Medicare Parts A and B, and not have End Stage Renal Disease (permanent kidney failure) to be eligible for some of these options. The Original Medicare Plan is available nationally. Depending upon where you live, you may have some other Medicare + Choice health plan options available to you in the near future.

Any decision about your health care is an important one. You should make your decision carefully and with the help of people you trust. One option will continue to be the Original Medicare Plan. Another choice could be one of the new health plan options. There are differences among Medicare health plans that you need to know about. For example, there will be differences in how much it will cost; whether extra benefits, like prescription drugs, are offered; and how much choice you have in using certain doctors, hospitals and other providers.

No matter which health plan option you choose to join or stay in, you are still in the Medicare program. You will receive all services Medicare covers. However, the Original Medicare Plan does not pay for everything and it does not cover all services. Some health plan options provide coverage for services not otherwise covered by the Original Medicare Plan. Some can reduce your out-of-pocket costs (e.g., deductibles and coinsurance).

Here are your Medicare options, some of which may be available in your area.

Here are your Medicare options, some of which may be available in your area.

Questions and Answers About Your Medicare Options

Do I have to change to a new plan option?

No. If you are happy with the way you now receive your Medicare benefits, you don't have to do anything. You will continue to receive Medicare benefits the same way that you do now. No matter which health plan option you choose to join or stay in, you are still in the Medicare program.

How do I get information on health plans in my area?

You can get up-to-date information about Medicare on the Internet at www.medicare.gov. Your local library or senior center may be able to help you find this information on their computers. You can request information on Medicare + Choice health plans available in your area by using the automated Medicare Special Information number available after October 26, 1998. You can also call the State Health Insurance Assistance Program in your area for help with Medicare questions or assistance with information about health plans. For your convenience, provided below are  phone numbers for other groups that can answer your Medicare questions.

If I want to make a change in my health plan, are there other things that I should consider?

If you or your spouse has health care coverage that supplements Medicare, check the information provided by your former employer or union, or contact them before you choose a new plan. If you have Medigap coverage, check the information provided by your Medigap insurer, or call the State Health Insurance Assistance Program in your State.    If you have Medicaid coverage, do not make changes until you contact the State Medical Assistance Office.

More Medicare Benefits!

Medicare has added benefits to help you stay healthy.  These benefits are available now, at no extra cost.  These benefits are available no matter which health plan you choose.  Talk to your doctor about these benefits to see if they are right for you.

Yearly mammograms  NEW
Pap smear including pelvic and breast examination  NEW

More Benefits for People with Diabetes

Diabetes glucose monitoring  NEW
Diabetes education  NEW

More Benefits for Everyone

Colorectal cancer screening  NEW
Bone mass measurement  NEW
Flu and pneumococcal pneumonia shots Still a great way to stay healthy!

For more information, call your doctor or health care provider.

If your income is limited, your State may help pay your Medicare costs, such as your premiums and deductibles. To qualify:

Your monthly income must be less than: