medicare Archives - Page 4 of 15 - DR News

Insurance Stocks Plunge as US Regulators Hold Firm on Medicare Payments

New York, NY – Health insurance stocks experienced a significant drop in late trading on Monday following the unexpected decision by US regulators to keep payments for private Medicare plans steady for 2025. This move by President Joe Biden’s administration marks a departure from recent practices, catching Wall Street off guard. According to research from JPMorgan Securities analysts, final rates have typically improved from regulators’ initial proposals over the past decade, making this decision a …

Medicare Coverage Guidelines for Wheelchairs and Scooters Explained

Miami, Florida – If you’re 65 or older and in need of a wheelchair or electric scooter, navigating Medicare coverage may not be as straightforward as you think. When it comes to Medicare reimbursement for mobility devices like manual wheelchairs, power wheelchairs, or electric scooters, meeting all the requirements is crucial. Diane Omdahl, author of “Medicare for You” and co-founder of the Medicare advisory firm, 65 Incorporated, emphasized the complexities of the process. Understanding the …

Long COVID Treatment Coverage Discrepancies Based on Medicare Plans

Cleveland, Ohio – A study conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau revealed that nearly 1 in 4 adults aged 65 and above who have contracted COVID-19 have experienced lingering symptoms, a condition known as long COVID. This condition encompasses a range of health issues that persist for at least four weeks post-infection, such as fatigue, shortness of breath, and cognitive difficulties, among others according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Katy Votava, a …

Medicare Admission Rules: The Impact of the Two-Midnight Standard on Inpatient Care and Cost

Chicago, Illinois – When a Medicare beneficiary is admitted for inpatient care, clinicians often consider the two-midnight rule set forth by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, a standard that impacts reimbursement decisions. The two-midnight rule comes into play when a clinician determines that a Medicare beneficiary will likely require hospital care for more than two midnights, making inpatient care necessary over cheaper outpatient options, explained Regan Tankersley, an attorney at the law firm …

Medicare Enrollment: Key Ages and Penalties You Need to Know Before Retirement

Boston, MA – As individuals approach retirement, there are essential ages to keep in mind for financial planning. Understanding when to claim Social Security benefits is crucial, as the full retirement age for individuals born in 1960 or later is 67. However, individuals have the option to start collecting smaller benefit checks as early as 62 or wait until age 70 for larger benefits, necessitating careful consideration. Turning 65 is significant as it marks the …

Medicare Advantage Plan Breakups Leave Seniors Stranded in Network Turmoil

Saratoga Springs, New York – A 95-year-old man, Bart Klion, and his wife, Barbara, had to face a difficult decision earlier this year. The couple was informed that they would have to choose between keeping their private Medicare Advantage insurance plan or continuing their care with doctors at Saratoga Hospital. The Albany Medical Center system, which includes their hospital, was parting ways with the Klions’ Humana plan, sparking concerns about how the couple would manage …

Medicare Blunders: 3 Costly Mistakes to Avoid When Enrolling in Health Coverage

Orlando, Florida – Millions of older Americans in the US obtain health coverage through Medicare. As they approach the age of 65, it becomes crucial for them to understand the rules and avoid potential mistakes when enrolling in Medicare or managing their healthcare expenses. One common mistake to avoid is not signing up for Medicare on time. Eligible individuals have a seven-month window to enroll, starting three months before their 65th birthday. However, those with …

Physicians struggle to accept new Medicare patients in Wichita due to low reimbursement rates

Wichita, Kansas residents who rely on Medicare are facing challenges in finding new primary care physicians due to some doctors choosing not to accept these patients. This issue stems from the low Medicare reimbursement rates for physicians, making it financially difficult for them to take on new Medicare patients. The Executive Director of the Medical Society of Sedgwick County, Phillip Brownlee, noted that the organization receives numerous calls from individuals, especially Medicare patients, seeking assistance …

Wegovy Approved by Medicare for Weight-Loss Payment

New York, NY – The first Medicare Health plans are set to start covering the cost of the weight-loss drug Wegovy for eligible patients. This move signifies a significant step forward in access to obesity treatment for individuals covered by Medicare. Wegovy, which has been shown to help patients lose a significant amount of weight, has been gaining attention for its effectiveness in combating obesity. The decision to include this drug in Medicare coverage is …

Medicare Premiums and Capital Gains: What Retirees Need to Know

Los Angeles, CA – Retired individuals who are considering downsizing their home may wonder about the impact on their Medicare premiums. Selling a home with a significant capital gain could potentially trigger income-related adjustments to Part B and Part D premiums, resulting in higher costs for beneficiaries. It’s essential to note that any increase in premiums due to a capital gain may not take effect until two years after the transaction. In the event of …