Medicare provides coverage for seniors when their employer health insurance ends. But, it’s also available to others, including those with chronic conditions.
How Medicare Coverage Works
First, let’s make this easier by starting with Medicare basics. The average person is eligible for Medicare when they turn 65. Even if you’re not retired and/or still have employer coverage, you can still sign up.
There is Original Medicare (Part A and Part B), Medicare Advantage (Part C), Medicare Part D, and Medicare Supplements (Medigap). You have to have Original Medicare before you can get any other coverage, then you can choose which plan works best for you.
Medicare Part A and Part B provide standard coverage for everyone. In other words, benefits are the same across the board. With Part C and Part D, benefits vary depending on the provider. Original Medicare costs are the same unless you have an exceptionally high income or income below a certain number.
Medicare Advantage Chronic Special Needs Plan (C-SNP)
You can enroll in a Medicare Advantage Chronic Special Needs Plan (C-SNP) if you have a qualifying chronic condition. There’s a long list of qualifying conditions, but here are the standard categories:
- Chronic alcohol or drug dependence
- Autoimmune disorders
- Cancer
- Cardiovascular disorders
- Chronic heart failure
- Dementia
- Diabetes mellitus
- End-stage liver disease
- End-stage renal disease (ESRD)
- Severe hematologic disorders
- HIV/AIDS
- Chronic lung disorders
- Chronic and disabling mental health conditions
- Neurologic disorders
- Stroke
With a C-SNP, you will receive coverage tailored to your condition, with very low and manageable costs to ensure you get the care you need. It is an excellent plan that any Medicare beneficiary can receive if they need it.
A Helping Hand for Your Personal Journey
You don’t have to figure out Medicare alone. We work hard to make sure you feel comfortable and confident in your Medicare coverage. To get started, us now at (833) NOW-JAKE.
