Extend Health Offers Free Online Guide That Explains Complexities of Medicare and Medicare Supplemental Plans
BURLINGAME, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- With the annual enrollment period for Medicare less than a month away, a free online guide is available now for seniors about to turn 65 and become eligible for Medicare. The guide offers insight into the complexities of Medicare, including the rules surrounding enrollment, benefits, and coverage as well as Medicare premiums, deductibles, co-pays, and how to use private Medicare supplemental plans to fill gaps in coverage that leave many retirees with substantial out-of-pocket healthcare expenses.
The annual enrollment period for Medicare runs from November 15-December 31, 2010, although seniors turning 65 can begin the process three months before their 65th birthday.
Extend Health, Inc., which operates the largest private Medicare exchange in the country, has published the free guide, which is available online at http://www.extendhealth.com/medicare/understanding-medicare. Alternatively, seniors can call 1-866-322-2824 and speak to a licensed and trained Benefit Advisor who will guide them through the complexities of Medicare and Medicare supplemental plans.
According to Bryce Williams, President and CEO of Extend Health, “Surveys of our customers show that when it comes to concerns about making ends meet in retirement, 63% of Medicare-eligible seniors are most worried about paying for healthcare and medical expenses – making it their biggest financial concern. What many people don’t know is Medicare doesn’t cover everything. If you’re about to age-in to Medicare, the best thing you can do is learn everything you can about your options. This free online guide is a good place to start.”
Included in the guide are clear explanations about:
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When you are eligible: In general, U.S. citizens 65 and older are eligible for Medicare. |
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The different parts of Medicare and what they mean to you: In addition to “original” Medicare, private Medicare supplemental (Medicare Advantage) and Medigap plans can fill expensive gaps in what original Medicare covers. |
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Advantages of different private Medicare options: Learn all about your options, from prescription drug to private fee for service (PFFS) plans. |
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How to enroll: Enrollment requirements are different for original Medicare and various private Medicare supplemental plans. |
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Medicare terms and what they mean: Key terms are defined in a convenient glossary. |
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The online guide is part of Extend Health’s ongoing consumer education program for Medicare-eligible seniors.
About Extend Health
Extend Health, Inc. was founded in 2004 to serve Medicare-eligible retirees and their corporate sponsors. The company operates the country’s largest private Medicare exchange and has helped more than 250,000 retirees compare and choose the private Medicare plan that best meets their needs and budgets. With Extend Health employer solutions, Fortune 500 companies, unions, and municipalities can save up to 35% on retiree health care compared to legacy employer group plans. For more information, visit Extend Health on the web at http://www.extendhealth.com.
CONTACT:
Media:
For Extend Health, Inc.
Rob Wyse, 212-920-1470
[email protected]
KEYWORDS: United States North America California
INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Seniors Health Small Business Professional Services Insurance Consumer General Health Managed Care
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