If you’re new to Medicare and turning 65
The 4 parts of Medicare
Medicare can save you money and provide excellent health care coverage when you pick the right plan. Keep reading for more about how to enroll in Original Medicare and choose a Medicare Advantage plan.
Original Medicare (Part A and Part B)
The first thing to do is enroll in Medicare Part A and Part B. This portion of Medicare comes from the federal government, and most of the time, you’ll be automatically enrolled through Social Security.
Medicare Part A
covers hospital stays and at-home care. Part A is important
in case you have an unexpected injury or sudden illness that
requires inpatient care.
Medicare Part B
includes doctor visits, medical tests, X-rays, medical supplies, and preventive care. Part B is your coverage for health care visits that help you stay healthy.
Medicare Advantage (Part C and Part D)
After you’ve enrolled in Medicare, you can add a Part C or Part D plan from a private insurer like Healthy Blue Missouri.
Medicare Part C, called Medicare Advantage,
comes from private insurers like Healthy Blue Missouri.
Medicare Advantage covers Part A and Part B, and usually
Part D. Plus, these plans come with extra benefits, like
fitness memberships, dental and vision care, and more.
Medicare Part D
is prescription drug coverage, which also comes from private insurers. Healthy Blue Missouri’s Medicare Advantage plans include coverage for prescription drugs.
Talk to an experienced advisor about what you need or see if Healthy Blue Missouri is available in your county.
Call: 1-800-760-4350 (TTY: 711) 7 days a week 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Shop Plans
Your Initial Enrollment Period
You have a seven-month window, called the Initial Enrollment Period (IEP), to enroll in Medicare. After you enroll, you can add a Medicare Advantage plan in that same window. There are also other times during the year when you can add, drop or switch plans.
How to enroll in Medicare
If you’re receiving Social Security benefits at least four months before you turn 65, you’re automatically enrolled in Part A and Part B. Social Security will send you Medicare information and a Medicare card prior to your birthday.
If you’re still working at 65
You can sign up for Medicare at any Social Security office or online. The Social Security Administration offers a secure website where you can apply online easily. Even if you have employer health insurance, Medicare Part A can cover additional costs.
Here's what you'll need to enroll:
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Your Social Security card
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Your original birth certificate
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Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal citizenship status
documentation if you were not born in the U.S. -
A copy of your W-2 form
Apply for a Healthy Blue Missouri Medicare Advantage plan
Once you’re enrolled in Medicare, you can add a Medicare Advantage plan from Healthy Blue Missouri. You deserve a Medicare plan that covers all your health needs, whether that’s prescription drug coverage or money for hearing aids and eye exams.
Medicare Advantage plan benefits
Here are just a few of the benefits you’ll have with a Healthy Blue Missouri plan.
- A spending account for over-the-counter items
- Prescription drug coverage
- Dental, vision, and hearing care
- Essential Extras, everyday services to make life easier
Talk to an experienced advisor about what you need or see if Healthy Blue Missouri is available in your county. You can easily apply online too.
Call: 1-800-760-4350 (TTY: 711)