In August, A Little Help nonprofit organization presented their Tough Talk series class on Medicare 101 at the Berthoud Public Library. Medicare presenters Alan Heileman from the UCHealth Aspen Club and Rosie from the Health District explained the benefits and recent changes on Medicare and Medicaid. Susan Schneider with Colorado State University’s Extension Dept. explained their Senior Access Points of Larimer County website.
(l-r) Sue Schneider, Steve Courts, Alan Heileman, Rosie, Jason Morgan, & Marcy Greersilt
Alan Heileman discussed the Medicare options and benefits about the latest Medicare program for seniors over 65 years. Enrollment periods for new Medicare applicants are three months before your 65th birthday, during the month of your 65th birthday, or three months after your 65th birthday. For renewal or changes in your Medicare plans, the enrollment period is from October 15 to December of each year.
Since Medicare only pays for 80% of the Part A & B plans less the deductible, subscribers can purchase supplemental Medigap insurance by third party providers to cover the remaining 20% within limits of the various available plans labelled A to N.
Another Medicare option is the Medicare Advantage Plan, which has a reduced cost, and some plans include vision and dental benefits for your state only. All regular Medicare plans are covered in all 50 states. If you travel outside the U.S., Medicare isn’t covered, and it’s recommended you purchase affordable traveler’s insurance.
Rosie added several points about Medicare plus some of the benefits and requirements for applying for Medicaid. Finally, Sue Schneider explained their Senior Access Points of Larimer County website at https://senioraccesslarimer. colostate.edu, which shows many resources available for seniors in Larimer County, including health & wellness, home care, caregiving, financial & legal, and transportation services.
If you need help on applying for Medicare as a new applicant or renewal, please call any of the three Aspen Clubs in Fort Collins (970-495-8560), Greeley (970-652-2796) or Loveland (970-624-1860) to meet with a certified Medicare counselor to discuss the best Medicare plan for you.