Matt’s Corner – Blog
Welcome to the Prepare for Medicare blog!
Welcome to the Prepare for Medicare blog! I’m thrilled you’re here. I’ll use this blog space on the website to keep you up-to-speed with things that affect your Medicare coverage, current events and important dates and timelines.
I wrote my book, Prepare for Medicare – The Insider’s Guide to Buying Medicare Insurance to help you quickly understand Medicare, narrow down your choices, purchase a plan with the help of an expert Medicare insurance agent or DIY, and move on with your life.
That said, Medicare rules change all the time and there’s always something new! Keep paying attention to this space and I’ll post updates regularly.
If you’d like to submit a question, please email me at matt@prepareformedicare.com.
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To your wealth, wisdom, and wellness!
Using Medicare While Traveling
Matt, My husband and I are finally taking a trip we’ve talked about for years, a Caribbean cruise. There will be port calls in the Bahamas, the Virgin Islands, St. Vincent, St. Lucia, and Trinidad and Tobago. How does Medicare work if we have an emergency at sea or in...
What Alzheimer’s Treatments Does Medicare Cover?
Dear Matt! My Dad hasn’t seemed like himself for the past few months. Last week we got the diagnosis and it was what we feared–Alzheimer’s. He is 72 and on Social Security and Medicare. What coverage does Medicare offer for Alzheimer’s treatments? Brad Hi Brad, I’m...
Does Medicare Cover Home Health Care Services?
Hi Matt, My father’s Alzheimer's has become much worse. He can’t be left unsupervised during the day. Everyone in our family works and can’t afford to provide him with round-the-clock care. We’ve looked into what it would cost to hire someone to cook and do some light...
What If You Can’t Afford Medicare Premiums?
What If You Can’t Afford Medicare Premiums? Hi Matt, Like most people today, I’m working with a limited income and need to save money where I can. However, I also don’t want to compromise on my Medicare needs. Can you give me a breakdown of how much premiums cost as...
What if I Can’t Afford My Medicare Prescriptions?
If you’ve been fortunate enough to have good insurance most of your life, you may have gotten in the habit of picking up a prescription for $20, $15, or even a dollar without giving a second thought to it. Look a little closer at your receipt, however, and you might...
Frown, Smirk, or Smile: Your Options for Dental Insurance on Medicare
It has become a cliché: someone gets a great-sounding job offer, and their first question is, “Yes, but does it come with dental?” Without dental insurance, a routine exam and cleaning can cost $300. Skipping that preventative care can cost you much more, though....
Medicare and COBRA
Hi Matt, I'm retiring soon and am currently on my employer's health insurance plan. I plan on electing COBRA when my employer coverage ends. I know there are Medicare Part B late enrollment penalties, and I don't want to mess anything up! I have Medicare Part A, but...
Get Your Medicare Part D Prescription Refills Before the End of The Year
Matt, Do I need Medicare Part D for prescriptions, or is that covered with regular Medicare? If I need Part D, how can I sign up? Lastly, when should I refill my prescriptions for next year if I’m using the Medicare Part D plan? Archie Archie, You...
What Do I Need to Know About the 2023 AEP?
Hi Matt, I’d like to know more about the AEP. What advice or information should I know before I choose my benefits? Eugene Hi Eugene, The AEP begins every year on October 15 and ends on December 7. This is why your mailbox, web browsers, and TV...
How Can I Use 2023 Medicare Star Ratings to Choose Medicare Coverage?
Hi there Matt! I've read both of your previous blogs on Medicare ratings - these are so informative; thank you! I'll be reading about the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period too! Based on your knowledge of the Medicare Star Rating system, what Star...
Why the MOOP Is Important
Hey Matt, How much does it really matter to invest in a Medicare plan with a low Maximum Out-Of-Pocket? On the other hand, should I just stick with what you call Bare-with-Medicare? Charles S. Hey Charles, To answer your question, we need to explain a MOOP. This is...
How Much Should I Pay Attention to Medicare Star Ratings?
Hello Matt, Thank you for providing the information in your previous blog about Medicare Star ratings. I understand how they work, but why are they important? How are Star ratings in real-time? Thank you for all your wonderful information! Betty V. Hello Betty, The...