Medicare for Dummies (5TH ed.)

Jacket Description/Back:

Medicare decisions made easy

The newly updated Medicare For Dummies offers clear, step-by-step instructions on how to navigate the complex Medicare system. It takes you from the enrollment process to making use of expanded coverage to customizing a plan for your needs. Written by Medicare expert Patricia Barry, this book is your trusted and proven guide to reducing your out-of-pocket expenses and picking the perfect policy for yourself and your family.

Inside...

• Learn the basics of Medicare
• Determine the best policy for you
• Reference the latest prices and coverage options
• Navigate the Medicare system
• Use Medicare for mental healthcare
• Get coverage for your family members
• Avoid unpleasant coverage surprises

Introduction 1

Part 1: Getting Started with Medicare 7

Chapter 1: The Nuts and Bolts of Medicare: What It Is and How It Works 9

Chapter 2: Spelling Out What Medicare Covers (A Lot, but Not Everything) 19

Chapter 3: Understanding What You Pay Toward Your Costs in Medicare 45

Chapter 4: Reducing Your Out-of-Pocket Expenses in Medicare 63

Part 2: The Hows and Whens of Medicare 93

Chapter 5: Qualifying for Medicare 95

Chapter 6: Enrolling in Medicare at the Right Time for You 111

Chapter 7: Discovering How to Sign Up for Medicare 145

Chapter 8: Understanding How Medicare Fits In with Other Health Insurance 167

Part 3: Making Smart Choices among Medicare's Many Options 191

Chapter 9: Making Sense of Medicare's Many Options 193

Chapter 10: Choosing Wisely If You Go with Original Medicare 211

Chapter 11: Making Smart Choices If You Opt for Medicare Advantage 237

Chapter 12: Getting Help in Making Medicare Choices 249

Part 4: Navigating Medicare from the Inside 263

Chapter 13: Starting Out as a New Medicare Beneficiary 265

Chapter 14: Getting the Inside Scoop on Using Certain Medicare Benefits 293

Chapter 15: Changing Your Medicare and Medigap Coverage 321

Chapter 16: Knowing Your Rights 341

Part 5: The Part of Tens 357

Chapter 17: Top Ten Medicare Mistakes 359

Chapter 18: Ten Ways to Stay Healthier beyond Age 65 367

Part 6: Appendixes 375

Appendix A: Sources of Help and Information 377

Appendix B: Glossary 389

Index 395

Patricia Barry is a recognized authority on Medicare who has written extensively about the program for consumers. For nearly two decades, as a senior editor of AARP's publications, she wrote hundreds of articles on Medicare and served as the online "Ask Ms. Medicare" columnist, answering thousands of questions sent by Medicare beneficiaries across the nation.

Cracking the Medicare code

Medicare For Dummies is your ultimate cheat sheet to demystifying Medicare. This newly updated guide covers the latest changes in benefits, including expanded coverage for mental health and chronic pain. In simple language and clear step-by-step instructions, this bestseller walks you through the enrollment process and helps you avoid costly mistakes along the way. You'll learn how to reduce your out-of-pocket expenses, and you'll get trusted guidance on finding the perfect policy for you and your family. Find answers to all your Medicare questions--even those you wouldn't think to ask--so you can develop a solid game plan to get the most out of Medicare.

• Learn the basics of Medicare and determine the best plan option for you
• Reference the latest prices, coverages, and other must-know information
• Get tips for minimizing your out-of-pocket expenses, whatever your health situation
• Find clear and thorough guidance for navigating Medicare at any age

If you're currently enrolled in Medicare and want to maximize their benefits, or if you#re thinking about enrolling soon, Medicare For Dummies will help you better understand the often confusing process. This book is full of examples, ideas, and useful takeaways that empower you to take control of your healthcare--and your health.