Senior's Introductory Guide For Navigating Medicare With Preexisting Conditions
Many seniors who are new to Medicare are still familiarizing themselves with the intricacies of their plan and what benefits are covered. While many senior adults with Medicare utilize their plan for basic coverage and standard check-ups, others require additional coverage - and still, others have preexisting conditions that need to be taken into account. If you aren't sure what preexisting conditions are or whether or not your health concern is considered a preexisting condition, Senior Helpers Western Kentucky has you covered.
What Is A Preexisting Condition As Related to Medicare?
It is important to understand what constitutes a preexisting condition. A preexisting condition is a medical condition or an illness that is diagnosed or treated before you actually enroll in Medicare. There are a wide variety of preexisting conditions, including cancer, heart disease, asthma, diabetes, and certain mental health conditions. Certain disabilities can also count as preexisting conditions. If you have a question about whether your condition is considered to be a preexisting condition by Medicare, reach out to an insurance representative or submit a question via the official Medicare website.
How Can Preexisting Conditions Affect Your Medicare Coverage?
Ultimately, it depends on the specifics of your Medicare plan as to whether you will be affected. Here are two ways that your preexisting condition might affect your Medicare plan:
- Cost. Preexisting conditions can affect your out-of-pocket healthcare costs. While it depends on your Medicare plan, there are some conditions that could require you to cover certain treatments, medications, and healthcare visits.
- Coverage. You should try to familiarize yourself with your plan's details before enrollment if you do have a preexisting condition - and don't hesitate to reach out to a Medicare specialist if you need clarification about what is considered a preexisting condition. There are some plans that might not offer complete coverage for preexisting conditions, while others could feature higher deductibles.
Stay Up To Date On Medicare Changes
Navigating Medicare with a preexisting condition can feel like a real challenge, especially when your plan requires you to pay additional bills or jump through hoops to book an appointment with a particular specialist in order to stay within your plan. However, by staying informed on Medicare changes and policy updates, you will be able to stay ahead of the curve. Also, understand that your healthcare is your prerogative and that you can opt for Medicare along with a supplemental insurance option if that gives you the coverage that you need in order to stay healthy.
Senior Helpers Can Help You Stay Healthy And Comfortable
Senior Helpers Western Kentucky can help you answer questions about Medicare and how it might work with your preexisting conditions. We proudly serve senior adults in the Hopkinsville, Paducah, Murray, and Madisonville areas, offering premium caregiving services that cater to the whole person. If you want to learn about our services, or if you want to embark on a brand new career in caregiving, contact Senior Helpers today!