Senior Counsel

Social Security Increases, But Medicare Costs Rise, Too

Social Security Increases, But Medicare Costs Rise, Too.  And don't forget that the open enrollment period ends December 7, 2011 this year.  If you need help choosing a Medicare plan, please contact us for referrals to trusted advisors who can help!

Annual Enrollment Starts October 15 and Ends December 7 for Medicare Part C & Part D Plans

The Center for Medicare Advocacy, Inc. has issued a detailed alert for consumers and advisors alike concerning the change in enrollment dates for Medicare this year from the traditional November to year-end to October 15 through December 7.  Click here for the alert in full.

Medicare's policy on therapy comes under attack - Medicare & Insurance News - AARP Bulletin

The problem with the "therapy" requirement has been around for many years and Medicare beneficiaries, their families and advocates have to keep vigilant and push back.  "Improvement" is not found anywhere in the Medicare regulations nad advocacy organization The Center for Medicare Advocacy is fighting back.  See the article below from the AARP Bulletin.

Medicare's policy on therapy comes under attack - Medicare & Insurance News - AARP Bulletin.

 

Medicare Study to Eliminate "Improvement" Requirement

The Center for Medicare Advocacy has launched a new effort to combat the requirement for "improvement" to continue Medicare covered health services.  This unlawful (in fact, absent) requirement often cuts services for individuals who have been sent to skilled nursing facilities for rehabilitation care, which means that a person can stay at the nursing home but without any Medicare reimbursement to cover the exorbitant daily rate (often $350 or more in the Rochester area).  This oft-quoted but unwritten rule seriously harms individuals with chronic diseases, such as Parkinson's, ALS, MS and other ongoing problems that by their nature cannot improve.

Please check the link for self-help advocacy materials and do contact the Center if you or your family has been affected by a determination to terminate care.

Medicare Part B Premium Should Not Increase for Most in 2010

While the government has announced that there is no expectation of a cost of living adjustment (often referred to as "COLA") for Social Security recipients in 2010, the Medicare Part B premium paid by many will likewise not increase.  There are certain individuals who may pay more, however.  See below for a very informative article posted by the Center for Medicare Advocacy, Inc.:

http://www.medicareadvocacy.org/PartB_09_08.27.PremiumsandCOLA.htm