Getting to Know Medicare in Florida
Medicare is a health insurance program for those 65 years old or older, and those under age 65 with certain disabilities. Florida Medicare benefits include Medicare Advantage Plans (sometimes called Medicare Part C), as well as Prescription Drug Plans (sometimes called Medicare Part D).
Generally, Medicare Advantage Plans include plans through private organizations, health maintenance organization plans, preferred provider plans, and fee for service plans. Generally, Medicare Advantage Plans include coverage for Parts and A and B.
Florida Medicare Part A includes coverage for stays in the hospital, nursing care, hospice care, etc. While your stay in the hospital is covered, there is a required deductible amount which varies depending on the length of your stay. Also, while skilled nursing care is covered, there is a required deductible amount depending on the amount of time the care if required. You are eligible for Florida Medicare Part B if you have Medicare Part A. Part B includes coverage for your visits to the doctor, lab services, outpatient treatment, mental health services, and some other costs. The premium amount is based on your annual income.
For Florida Medicare Part C Plans, Medicare pays the insurer a fee to assume all of the benefit coverage defined by Medicare. Part C is the newest of the Medicare Plans, it was first introduced in 2006 to deal with rising prescription costs. The insurer develops a variety of plans and options to choose from which include all of the requirements Medicare.
For Florida Medicare Part D you choose a prescription drug plan and you generally meet a deductible amount each year. Of course you'll pay a premium for the coverage and you pay a portion of the cost of your prescriptions (depending on your specific plan and requirements).
*You may be able to get extra help to pay for your prescription drug premiums and costs. To see if you qualify for getting extra help, call:
- 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY/TDD users should call 1-877-486-2048, 24 hours a day/7 days a week;
OR
- The Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. TTY/TDD users should call, 1-800-325-0778; or Your State Medicaid Office.