#understanding medicare

[feargender]

Liberals: yeah, Joe Biden is actively participating in genocide, but have you considered that he’s actually still a better candidate because [list of decisions he’s made domestically that are either relatively minor, misleading, or misconstrued]

[datastate]

who allowed this

[amarisbella21]

Understanding the Different Parts of Medicare: A, B, C, and D

Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily for individuals aged 65 and older, though it also covers certain younger individuals with disabilities and those with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). Understanding the different parts of Medicare—Parts A, B, C, and D—is crucial to making informed decisions about your healthcare coverage.

Medicare Part A: Hospital Insurance

Medicare Part A is often referred to as hospital insurance. It covers inpatient hospital stays, care in a skilled nursing facility, hospice care, and some home health care services. Most people do not pay a premium for Part A because they or their spouse paid Medicare taxes while working. However, there are deductibles and coinsurance costs associated with the services Part A covers. Part A is essential for anyone who may require hospital care, whether for surgery, illness, or rehabilitation.

Medicare Part B: Medical Insurance

Medicare Part B covers two types of services: medically necessary services and preventive services. Medically necessary services include outpatient care, doctor visits, laboratory tests, x-rays, mental health services, and durable medical equipment. Preventive services include screenings, vaccines, and yearly wellness visits. Unlike Part A, Part B requires a monthly premium, which is determined by your income. There is also an annual deductible and coinsurance for services. Part B is critical for managing ongoing health issues, visiting doctors, and receiving preventative care.

Medicare Part C: Medicare Advantage Plans

Medicare Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage, is an alternative to Original Medicare (Parts A and B). Medicare Advantage Plans are offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare and cover everything that Original Medicare covers. However, they often include additional benefits, such as vision, dental, hearing, and even fitness programs. Many Medicare Advantage Plans also include Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage. Enrolling in a Medicare Advantage Plan may involve paying an additional premium, but the potential for extra benefits and lower out-of-pocket costs makes it an attractive option for many beneficiaries.

Medicare Part D: Prescription Drug Coverage

Medicare Part D provides prescription drug coverage. Part D plans are offered by private insurance companies and help cover the cost of prescription medications. While Medicare Parts A and B cover a wide range of healthcare services, they do not include most outpatient prescription drugs, making Part D necessary for those who rely on medications to manage chronic conditions or illnesses. Part D plans have a monthly premium, and out-of-pocket costs can vary depending on the specific plan and medications used.

Medicare Age Requirement

The standard medicare age requirements to be eligible for Medicare is 65. Individuals can enroll in Medicare during their Initial Enrollment Period, which begins three months before their 65th birthday, includes the month they turn 65, and ends three months after. However, some people qualify for Medicare before age 65 if they have certain disabilities or conditions, such as ESRD or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).

Conclusion

Navigating Medicare's various parts can be complex, but understanding the differences between Parts A, B, C, and D is essential for choosing the right coverage for your needs. Each part covers different aspects of healthcare, from hospital stays and doctor visits to prescription drugs and additional benefits offered through Medicare Advantage Plans. By knowing the Medicare age requirement and the specific services covered by each part, you can make informed decisions that ensure comprehensive healthcare coverage as you age.

[albaalexa]

Understanding Medicare Eligibility For Individuals With Disabilities

Medicare is primarily known as a federal health insurance program for individuals aged 65 and older. However, it also provides essential coverage for younger individuals with disabilities. Understanding Medicare eligibility for this group is crucial for ensuring access to necessary healthcare services. This guide will break down the medicare eligibility requirements and processes for individuals with disabilities.

1. Who Qualifies for Medicare Due to Disability?

Individuals under 65 can qualify for Medicare if they meet specific criteria, primarily based on their health conditions:

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): To qualify for Medicare, individuals must have been receiving SSDI benefits for at least 24 months. SSDI is available for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes, and who are unable to work due to a qualifying disability.

Specific Conditions: Certain conditions automatically qualify individuals for Medicare regardless of the 24-month waiting period. These include End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease). Individuals diagnosed with ESRD can qualify for Medicare after three months of dialysis treatment or following a kidney transplant, while those with ALS automatically receive Medicare upon approval of SSDI.

2. Medicare Coverage Components

Once individuals with disabilities are eligible for Medicare, they receive coverage through various parts of the program:

Part A (Hospital Insurance): This covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home health services. Most individuals do not pay a premium for Part A if they or their spouse paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years.

Part B (Medical Insurance): Part B covers outpatient care, doctor visits, preventive services, and some home health care. There is a monthly premium associated with Part B, which can vary based on income. Individuals should enroll in Part B during their Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) to avoid late enrollment penalties.

Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage): Part D helps cover the cost of prescription medications. Individuals can enroll in a standalone Part D plan or choose a Medicare Advantage plan that includes drug coverage. Comparing plans is essential, as premiums, coverage, and out-of-pocket costs can differ significantly.

3. Enrollment Process

The enrollment process for Medicare can be straightforward for individuals with disabilities:

Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): The IEP for individuals eligible due to disability begins three months before the 25th month of receiving SSDI benefits and continues for three months after. It’s crucial to enroll during this period to avoid gaps in coverage.

General Enrollment Period (GEP): If individuals miss their IEP, they can enroll during the GEP, which runs from January 1 to March 31 each year. However, coverage begins on July 1, and late enrollment penalties may apply.

Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs): Certain life events, such as losing employer coverage, may allow individuals to enroll outside the usual periods without facing penalties.

4. Additional Resources and Support

Navigating Medicare can be complex, especially for those with disabilities. Here are some resources to help:

Medicare.gov: The official Medicare website provides comprehensive information on eligibility, enrollment, and coverage options.

Social Security Administration (SSA): The SSA is responsible for determining SSDI eligibility. Their website offers resources and guidance on the application process.

State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs): SHIPs provide free, personalized counseling to help individuals understand their Medicare options and navigate the enrollment process.

5. Conclusion

Understanding Medicare eligibility for individuals with disabilities is vital for accessing necessary healthcare services. By meeting the eligibility criteria and navigating the enrollment process, individuals can secure comprehensive coverage that meets their healthcare needs. Utilizing available resources can further empower individuals to make informed decisions about their Medicare options, ensuring they receive the support they need.

[eloisemia]

Understanding Medicare Eligibility For Different Age Groups

Medicare, the federal health insurance program in the United States, provides vital coverage for millions of Americans. However, eligibility criteria vary depending on age groups, leading to confusion among different demographics. Understanding Medicare eligibility for various age groups is crucial for individuals to navigate the complexities of healthcare access and coverage effectively.

For individuals aged 65 and older, Medicare eligibility is relatively straightforward. Most people become eligible for Medicare when they turn 65, regardless of their employment status or health condition. This initial enrollment period begins three months before the individual's 65th birthday and extends for three months afterward. During this time, individuals can sign up for Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Medicare Part B (medical insurance) without incurring late enrollment penalties.

However, for younger age groups, such as individuals with disabilities, Medicare eligibility is based on specific criteria. Those under 65 may qualify for Medicare if they have been receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Railroad Retirement Board disability benefits for at least 24 months. This provision ensures that individuals with disabilities have access to essential healthcare services and support.

Another group that may qualify for Medicare before the age of 65 is individuals with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. Individuals with ESRD, such as those undergoing dialysis or kidney transplant recipients, are eligible for Medicare regardless of age, provided they meet certain requirements. Similarly, individuals diagnosed with ALS automatically qualify for Medicare benefits upon receiving disability benefits from the Social Security Administration.

Understanding the nuances of eligibility for medicare for different age groups is essential for individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare coverage. For example, individuals nearing the age of 65 need to prepare for their Medicare enrollment period and familiarize themselves with the available coverage options. This includes understanding the differences between Medicare Part A, Part B, Part C (Medicare Advantage), and Part D (prescription drug coverage) to select the most suitable plan for their needs.

Furthermore, individuals with disabilities must navigate the transition to Medicare carefully, ensuring a seamless continuation of healthcare coverage. This may involve coordinating benefits between Medicare and other insurance programs, such as Medicaid or employer-sponsored health plans, to maximize coverage and minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Additionally, individuals with ESRD or ALS face unique healthcare challenges and may require specialized care and support. Understanding their Medicare eligibility and coverage options is essential for accessing the necessary treatments, medications, and services to manage their conditions effectively.

In conclusion, understanding Medicare eligibility for different age groups is crucial for individuals to access essential healthcare coverage and services. Whether approaching the age of 65, living with a disability, or managing a chronic illness, navigating the complexities of Medicare requires careful consideration and planning. By staying informed about Medicare enrollment periods, coverage options, and eligibility criteria, individuals can make informed decisions to safeguard their health and well-being now and in the future.

[melodyvibes-blog1]

The WEIRDEST Republican Campaign Commercials | The Russell Howard Hour

[alvisanders]

Understanding the Different Parts of Medicare and Their Eligibility Criteria

Medicare, the federal health insurance program in the United States, is divided into several parts, each addressing different aspects of healthcare coverage. Understanding the distinctions between these parts and their eligibility criteria is essential for individuals approaching or meeting the Medicare age.

Medicare Part A:

Description: Medicare Part A primarily covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home health care services.

Eligibility: Most individuals are eligible for medicare if they or their spouse paid Medicare taxes while working. Alternatively, eligibility may be based on the individual's or their spouse's government employment.

Medicare Part B:

Description: Medicare Part B provides coverage for outpatient care, doctor visits, preventive services, and some home health care. It aims to address medical services not covered by Part A.

Eligibility: Part B eligibility is generally automatic for individuals enrolled in Part A. However, enrollment is optional and may require paying a monthly premium. Individuals turning 65 and not receiving Social Security benefits need to sign up during the Initial Enrollment Period.

Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage):

Description: Medicare Part C, or Medicare Advantage, is an alternative to Original Medicare (Parts A and B) offered by private insurance companies. It includes the same coverage as Parts A and B and often includes additional benefits like vision, dental, and prescription drug coverage.

Eligibility: To enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan, individuals must be enrolled in both Medicare Parts A and B and live in the plan's service area. Some plans may have additional eligibility criteria.

Medicare Part D:

Description: Medicare Part D provides prescription drug coverage. It can be added to Original Medicare or included in many Medicare Advantage plans.

Eligibility: To enroll in a Part D plan, individuals must have Medicare Part A or Part B. Enrollment is typically done during the Initial Enrollment Period or the Annual Election Period.

Medigap (Medicare Supplement Insurance):

Description: Medigap plans are private insurance policies designed to supplement Original Medicare. They cover costs such as copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles.

Eligibility: To be eligible for a Medigap plan, individuals must be enrolled in both Medicare Parts A and B. Enrollment is most accessible during the Medigap Open Enrollment Period, which starts when an individual is 65 or older and enrolled in Part B.

Medicare Enrollment Periods:

Initial Enrollment Period (IEP):

Begins three months before turning 65, includes the birth month, and continues for three months afterward.

For those not automatically enrolled, missing the IEP may result in delayed coverage and potential penalties.

General Enrollment Period (GEP):

January 1 to March 31 each year, with coverage starting on July 1.

Individuals who didn't enroll during their IEP can sign up during the GEP, but late penalties may apply.

Special Enrollment Period (SEP):

Allows enrollment outside of the IEP or GEP under specific circumstances, such as continuing employer coverage beyond age 65.

Understanding the different parts of Medicare and its eligibility criteria is crucial for making informed healthcare decisions. It ensures individuals access the appropriate coverage at the right time and helps avoid potential late enrollment penalties. Consulting with Medicare specialists or healthcare professionals can provide personalized guidance based on individual circumstances.

[the-pigeon]

they should make a healthcare system that doesn't cost any money and is also easy to navigate and utilise.

[lets-steal-an-archive]

By Bernie Sanders | July 13, 2024

I will do all that I can to see that President Biden is re-elected. Why? Despite my disagreements with him on particular issues, he has been the most effective president in the modern history of our country and is the strongest candidate to defeat Donald Trump — a demagogue and pathological liar. It’s time to learn a lesson from the progressive and centrist forces in France who, despite profound political differences, came together this week to soundly defeat right-wing extremism.

I strongly disagree with Mr. Biden on the question of U.S. support for Israel’s horrific war against the Palestinian people. The United States should not provide Benjamin Netanyahu’s right-wing extremist government with another nickel as it continues to create one of the worst humanitarian disasters in modern history.

I strongly disagree with the president’s belief that the Affordable Care Act, as useful as it has been, will ever address America’s health care crisis. Our health care system is broken, dysfunctional and wildly expensive and needs to be replaced with a “Medicare for all” single-payer system. Health care is a human right.

And those are not my only disagreements with Mr. Biden.

But for over two weeks now, the corporate media has obsessively focused on the June presidential debate and the cognitive capabilities of a man who has, perhaps, the most difficult and stressful job in the world. The media has frantically searched for every living human being who no longer supports the president or any neurologist who wants to appear on TV. Unfortunately, too many Democrats have joined that circular firing squad.

Yes. I know: Mr. Biden is old, is prone to gaffes, walks stiffly and had a disastrous debate with Mr. Trump. But this I also know: A presidential election is not an entertainment contest. It does not begin or end with a 90-minute debate.

Enough! Mr. Biden may not be the ideal candidate, but he will be the candidate and should be the candidate. And with an effective campaign taht speaks to the needs of working families, he will not only defeat Mr. Trump but beat him badly. It’s time for Democrats to stop the bickering and nit-picking.

I understand that some Democrats get nervous about having to explain the president’s gaffes and misspeaking names. But unlike the Republicans, they do not have to explain away a candidate who now has 34 felony convictions and faces charges that could lead to dozens of additional convictions, who has been hit with a $5 million judgment after he was found liable in a sexual abuse case, who has been involved in more than 4,000 lawsuits, who has repeatedly gone bankrupt and who has told thousands of documented lies and falsehoods.

Supporters of Mr. Biden can speak proudly about a good and decent Democratic president with a record of real accomplishment. The Biden administration, as a result of the American Rescue Plan, helped rebuild the economy during the pandemic far faster than economists thought possible. At a time when people were terrified about the future, the president and those of us who supported him in Congress put Americans back to work, provided cash benefits to desperate parents and protected small businesses, hospitals, schools and child care centers.

After decades of talk about our crumbling roads, bridges and water systems, we put more money into rebuilding America’s infrastructure than ever before — which is projected to create millions of well-paying jobs. And we did not stop there. We made the largest-ever investment in climate action to save the planet. We canceled student debt for nearly five million financially strapped Americans. We cut prices for insulin and asthma inhalers, capped out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs and got free vaccines to the American people. We battled to defend women’s rights in the face of moves by Trump-appointed jurists to roll back reproductive freedom and deny women the right to control their own bodies.

So, yes, Mr. Biden has a record to run on. A strong record. But he and his supporters should never suggest that what’s been accomplished is sufficient. To win the election, the president must do more than just defend his excellent record. He needs to propose and fight for a bold agenda that speaks to the needs of the vast majority of our people — the working families of this country, the people who have been left behind for far too long.

At a time when the billionaires have never had it so good and when the United States is experiencing virtually unprecedented income and wealth inequality, over 60 percent of Americans live paycheck to paycheck, real weekly wages for the average worker have not risen in over 50 years, 25 percent of seniors live each year on $15,000 or less, we have a higher rate of childhood poverty than almost any other major country, and housing is becoming more and more unaffordable — among other crises.

This is the wealthiest country in the history of the world. We can do better. We must do better. Joe Biden knows that. Donald Trump does not. Joe Biden wants to tax the rich so that we can fund the needs of working families, the elderly, the children, the sick and the poor. Donald Trump wants to cut taxes for the billionaire class. Joe Biden wants to expand Social Security benefits. Donald Trump and his friends want to weaken Social Security. Joe Biden wants to make it easier for workers to form unions and collectively bargain for better wages and benefits. Donald Trump wants to let multinational corporations get away with exploiting workers and ripping off consumers. Joe Biden respects democracy. Donald Trump attacks it.

This election offers a stark choice on issue after issue. If Mr. Biden and his supporters focus on these issues — and refuse to be divided and distracted — the president will rally working families to his side in the industrial Midwest swing states and elsewhere and win the November election. And let me say this as emphatically as I can: For the sake of our kids and future generations, he must win.

Bernie Sanders is the senior senator from Vermont.

[avaa7944]

Understand How Medicare Works

Medicare in Pennsylvania is a federal health insurance program in the United States primarily for individuals aged 65 and older. It also covers some younger people with disabilities. Understanding how Medicare classes work can help you navigate the program and make informed decisions regarding your healthcare coverage. Medicare is divided into several parts, or "classes," each serving different purposes. It's often beneficial to seek guidance from a Medicare counselor or insurance expert to make the most informed decisions regarding your healthcare coverage.

[candiedcatnip]

Every day I get up and swallow the urge to info dump about CRT, medical coding, and the insurance process.

[wilwheaton]

Biden said he “beat Medicare”? So what? Trump unironically called him Brandon without even realizing it and said he was 86 years old. We’re really doing all this over some gaffes and pauses, after all Biden’s accomplishments? You all do understand that the actual Presidency is not an episode of The West Wing where snappy Aaron Sorkin dialogue counts for anything, right? You understand that debating has essentially nothing to do with being President? Just mentally compare Trump and Biden’s first terms. Has Biden told you to drink bleach, or shine a UV light up your ass or through your circulatory system or whatever Trump was implying? Has he gaslighted you that you know what “covfefe” means? Has he gotten a million Americans needlessly killed in a pandemic? One of these men is the most effective President since FDR, and the other man was the worst President in history and will make his first round look like a picnic if reelected. It will quite literally be the end of the American experiment. You’re ignoring that to privilege how a 90-minute screen test made you feel? Give me a break. You already know who both of these guys are from their records. You know this debate didn’t actually matter. The facts prove it.

An Independent's View of the Debate and Beyond

Interesting take that’s worth reading in full.

[amarisbella21]

Understanding The Basic Eligibility Requirements For Medicare

Medicare is a federal health insurance program that provides coverage for millions of Americans, primarily those who are 65 or older. However, Medicare is also available to certain younger individuals with specific disabilities and conditions. Understanding the basic medicare eligibility requirements are crucial for anyone approaching the age of 65 or those who may qualify due to health circumstances. Here's a comprehensive look at what it takes to be eligible for Medicare.

Age-Based Eligibility

The most common way to qualify for Medicare is by reaching the age of 65. If you are a U.S. citizen or a permanent legal resident who has lived in the United States for at least five consecutive years, you are eligible to enroll in Medicare when you turn 65.

Automatic Enrollment: If you are already receiving Social Security benefits or Railroad Retirement Board benefits when you turn 65, you will be automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance). Part A is usually premium-free if you or your spouse have paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years (40 quarters).

Manual Enrollment: If you are not receiving Social Security benefits at 65, you will need to manually enroll in Medicare during your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP). The IEP is a seven-month window that begins three months before your 65th birthday, includes the month you turn 65, and ends three months after your birthday month.

Disability-Based Eligibility

Medicare isn’t only for those who are 65 or older; it also provides coverage for younger individuals who have certain disabilities.

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): If you are under 65 and have been receiving SSDI benefits for 24 months, you automatically become eligible for Medicare. After 24 months of SSDI, your Medicare coverage will begin, providing you with both Part A and Part B benefits.

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS): Also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, individuals diagnosed with ALS qualify for Medicare as soon as they start receiving SSDI benefits, without the 24-month waiting period.

Eligibility for Individuals with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD)

Medicare also covers individuals of any age who have End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), which is permanent kidney failure requiring regular dialysis or a kidney transplant.

Enrollment Process: Individuals with ESRD can enroll in Medicare at any time, and their coverage will typically begin the first month after dialysis begins. Coverage may also begin earlier if you undergo dialysis training for self-dialysis, or immediately upon receiving a kidney transplant.

Premium Considerations: Unlike automatic enrollment scenarios for age and disability, ESRD patients must actively enroll in Medicare, and depending on their work history, they may have to pay premiums for Part A.

Special Enrollment Situations

There are circumstances where you can delay enrolling in Medicare without incurring penalties, typically when you or your spouse are still working and covered by a group health plan through your employer.

Special Enrollment Period (SEP): If you are covered under a group health plan, you can delay enrolling in Medicare Part B without penalty. Once your employment ends or your group health coverage stops, you have an eight-month SEP to sign up for Medicare Part B. This period begins the month after the employment ends or the health coverage ends, whichever happens first.

Medicare and Income-Based Programs

While Medicare eligibility is generally based on age or disability rather than income, there are programs like Medicaid and the Medicare Savings Program that can help lower-income individuals with Medicare costs. These programs are state-administered and can assist with premiums, deductibles, and other out-of-pocket expenses.

Conclusion

Understanding the basic eligibility requirements for Medicare ensures that you or your loved ones can access this essential health coverage when needed. Whether qualifying through age, disability, or a specific condition like ESRD, knowing when and how to enroll in Medicare is key to securing the healthcare services you need. For those approaching 65 or living with a disability, keeping track of enrollment periods and understanding the coverage options available can make a significant difference in your healthcare planning.

[albaalexa]

Understanding the Medicare Savings Program: Eligibility and Benefits

The Medicare Savings Program (MSP) is a valuable resource designed to assist low-income individuals in affording their Medicare costs. These programs help eligible beneficiaries pay for premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments associated with Medicare, significantly reducing their out-of-pocket expenses. Understanding the eligibility criteria and benefits of the MSP is essential for those seeking financial assistance with their Medicare costs.

Eligibility for the Medicare Savings Program

Eligibility for the Medicare Savings Program varies by state, as each state administers its program with specific income and resource limits. However, some general guidelines apply nationwide:

Medicare Enrollment: To qualify for the MSP, individuals must be enrolled in Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and, in some cases, Part B (medical insurance).

Income Limits: The income limits for MSP eligibility are typically set at a percentage of the federal poverty level (FPL). As of 2024, the income thresholds are as follows:

Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB): Individuals with an income at or below 100% of the FPL may qualify for the QMB program, which covers all Part A and Part B premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments.

Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB): For those with incomes between 100% and 120% of the FPL, the SLMB program helps pay for Part B premiums only.

Qualified Individual (QI): Individuals with incomes between 120% and 135% of the FPL may qualify for the QI program, which also helps pay for Part B premiums. However, QI funding is limited and provided on a first-come, first-served basis.

Resource Limits: In addition to income limits, MSP eligibility may also consider the individual's resources, such as savings and assets. As of 2024, resource limits are generally set at $7,730 for individuals and $11,600 for couples, although some states have higher limits or exclusions for certain types of resources.

Benefits of the Medicare Savings Program

The Medicare Savings Program provides several significant benefits that can alleviate the financial burden on eligible beneficiaries:

Premium Coverage: Depending on the specific program, MSP can cover the monthly premiums for Medicare Part A and/or Part B, reducing monthly expenses for low-income individuals.

Cost-Sharing Assistance: MSP helps cover out-of-pocket costs associated with Medicare, including deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance, ensuring beneficiaries can access necessary medical services without overwhelming financial strain.

Automatic Enrollment in Medicaid: In some states, qualifying for the QMB program may automatically enroll individuals in Medicaid, providing additional coverage for services not included in Medicare, such as long-term care and personal care services.

Access to Preventive Services: By alleviating financial concerns, MSP encourages beneficiaries to utilize preventive services, such as screenings and vaccinations, which can lead to better health outcomes and lower overall healthcare costs.

How to Apply

Eligible individuals can apply for the PA Medicare plans through their state’s Medicaid office or online through the Social Security Administration’s website. It’s important to gather necessary documentation, such as proof of income and resources, to facilitate the application process.

Conclusion

The Medicare Savings Program is a vital resource for low-income individuals seeking assistance with their Medicare costs. By understanding the eligibility requirements and benefits, beneficiaries can take advantage of this program to improve their access to healthcare while minimizing financial burdens. If you or someone you know may qualify, it’s important to explore the MSP options available in your state to ensure you receive the necessary support.

[dreaminginthedeepsouth]

Billboard project

* * * *

One for the history books!

September 12, 2024

Robert B. Hubbell

After delivering one of the best debate performances in American political history, Kamala Harris is receiving begrudging and stinting praise from many in the media and commentary class. But 67 million people saw Kamala Harris demonstrate she is made of presidential timber. They witnessed a masterful performance that revealed a penetrating intellect tempered by decency and humanity. On the substance and execution, she should have earned the support of all voters and unqualified praise from the media and political commentators.

Trump's performance was vile and disqualifying. It was worse than Joe Biden’s widely panned debate by far. While Joe Biden turned in a horrible debate performance as measured by the artificial rules of made-for-tv spectacles, Donald Trump made dozens of statements that were objectively depraved, racist, antidemocratic, delusional, and deceitful.

Trump transcended the debate format and devolved into fascist demagoguery that should have resulted in universal condemnation by all voters, the media, and political commentators. If Joe Biden was driven from the presidential race because of his poor debate performance, Trump should be banished from politics, expelled from his party, and relegated to a place of dishonor in the annals of American history.

Talking about the debate is difficult because of the urge to focus on Kamala Harris’s brilliantly executed strategy of baiting Trump into ranting about his insecurities and the horror of Trump's worst-in-the-history-of-the-nation performance on substance.

I get it. Harris’s ninja debating moves and Trump's racist deer-in-the-headlights stare made for riveting television. But we focus on those aspects of the debate to the detriment of the substance of Kamala Harris’s message. She spent a substantial portion of the debate discussing her policies and her plan to help heal the divisions that beset America.

It is disappointing to see so many stories and commentators describe the debate as “fierce” or “contentious.” I heard one commentator on MSNBC bemoan the fact that neither candidate seemed interested in bridging the divide in America. That is false. Kamala Harris promised to be a president for all Americans and to focus on the needs of the people, not the needs and wants of the president. She said, in part,

And I think the American people want better than that. Want better than this. Want someone who understands as I do, I travel our country, we see in each other a friend. We see in each other a neighbor. We don't want a leader who is constantly trying to have Americans point their fingers at each other. I meet with people all the time who tell me "Can we please just have discourse about how we're going to invest in the aspirations and the ambitions and the dreams of the American people?" [¶¶] I've only had one client. The people. And I'll tell you, as a prosecutor I never asked a victim or a witness are you a Republican or a Democrat. The only thing I ever asked them, are you okay? And that's the kind of president we need right now. Someone who cares about you and is not putting themselves first. I intend to be a president for all Americans and focus on what we can do over the next 10 and 20 years to build back up our country by investing right now in you the American people.

Kamala Harris repeatedly offered her policy vision for America, including tax breaks for business startups; subsidizing downpayments for first-time home purchases; incentivizing the construction of starter homes; granting tax credits for families with newborns; investing in American chip technology, quantum computing, and AI; supporting worker’s rights; reducing reliance on fossil fuels; granting tax cuts for the middle class; requiring the ultra-wealthy to pay their fair share of taxes; and protecting the Affordable Care Act, Medicare, and Medicaid. She also promised to protect reproductive liberty, LGBTQ equality, and voting rights of all Americans.

The media has hounded Kamala Harris for weeks about the alleged absence of policies in her campaign. On Tuesday, she talked about dozens of specific policies—and the media is not saying a word about those policies after the debate.

Not. A. Word.

It’s almost as if the media didn’t really care about Kamala Harris’s policies but were only interested in a talking point they could use to criticize her. Hypocrites!

So, before talking about how well Kamala Harris executed her strategy of baiting Trump and how abhorrent Trump's performance and positions were, let’s give Kamala Harris her due on the substance: She gave a presidential-level discourse on policies that will affect the lives of hundreds of millions of Americans. The fact that Trump and the moderators ignored those policies does not diminish the respect she showed for the American people by clearly setting forth her policies if elected as president.

Among the many insipid criticisms of Kamala Harris was that she used facial expressions to convey her disapproval, amusement, and disbelief over Trump's utterances. This was an effective use of her non-speaking time and allowed her to diminish Trump without saying a word.

Dahlia Lithwick demolishes the critics who faulted Kamala’s facial expressions—a criticism that would only be leveled against a woman. See Dahlia Lithwick, Slate, Harris–Trump debate: Kamala Harris’ face on Tuesday was the stuff of legend. (slate.com). Lithwick writes,

It must be beyond maddening for a political actor to be summoned into a “debate” that is not really a debate, pitted against some frothing amalgam of WWE reenactor and Tasmanian devil, warned that your microphone will be muted while he is speaking, cautioned that he will be allowed to talk over you and the moderators, then be criticized for … blinking? [¶¶] Harris’ face roamed free and far on Tuesday, and it was thoroughly warranted and frequently enjoyable. I think of her mobile, legible face as a satisfying call-and-response to Trump’s lifelong preference for female adulation and Botox. Women have faces. Their faces have expressions. If that was upsetting to you during Tuesday’s debate, you might be dismayed to learn that deep beneath our expressive faces lie thoughts, dreams, frustrations, and other markers of human agency. If a woman smiling freaks you out, imagine what happens when a woman votes.

While talking about Kamala Harris’s facial expressions may seem superficial, it is not. One of Harris’s most significant accomplishments was her ability to show herself to be a likable, relatable human being. She did so by using the medium of television to her advantage. Were the expressive facial reactions real or practiced? It doesn’t matter; they were successful. People liked Kamala Harris. For a candidate who has been on the national scene since 2018, the percentage of voters who still say they don’t “know” her is shocking. But she went some distance in the debate to introduce herself to those voters in a positive way.

Among Harris’s many pointed and powerful answers on Tuesday, none were better than her response to Trump's gloating over the demise of Roe v. Wade. Harris said,

In over 20 states there are Trump abortion bans which make it criminal for a doctor or nurse to provide health care. In one state it provides prison for life. Trump abortion bans that make no exception even for rape and incest. Which—understand what that means. A survivor of a crime, a violation to their body, does not have the right to make a decision about what happens to their body next. That is immoral. And one does not have to abandon their faith or deeply held beliefs to agree: The government, and Donald Trump certainly, should not be telling a woman what to do with her body. You want to talk about, this is what people wanted? Pregnant women who want to carry a pregnancy to term, suffering from a miscarriage, being denied care in an emergency room because the health care providers are afraid they might go to jail, and she’s bleeding out in a car in the parking lot? She didn’t want that. Her husband didn’t want that. A 12 or 13-year-old survivor of incest being forced to carry a pregnancy to term? They don’t want that. Understand in his Project 2025, there would be a national abortion—a monitor that would be monitoring your pregnancies, your miscarriages.

There is more room to praise Kamala Harris’s performance in the debate, but we must turn to Trump's horrific statements during the debate. So, let’s get Trump’s “debate performance” out of the way: It was the worst debate performance (in terms of style) in the history of political debates. See The Guardian, Republicans dismayed by Trump’s ‘bad’ and ‘unprepared’ debate performance. Brit Hume of Fox News said, “Let’s make no mistake. Trump had a bad night. We just heard so many of the old grievances that we all know aren’t winners politically.” Coming from a Fox commentator, that is as bad as it gets for Trump.

There were many disgraceful, disqualifying statements during the debate by Trump: Refusing to say that he hoped Ukraine would defeat the Russian invasion; refusing to acknowledge that he lost in 2020; refusing to express any regret for his actions on January 6; claiming that “every Democrat” wanted to “get rid of” Roe v. Wade.; and repeatedly saying that execution of babies after a full-term delivery was permissible under existing law.

To state the obvious, if Kamala Harris had uttered a single statement that was one-tenth as egregious as any of the above, the major media would be calling for her withdrawal from the race.

But Trump's worst statement was the race-baiting claim that Haitian immigrants are capturing domestic pets in Springfield, Ohio and eating them. That trope was originally directed at immigrants from other countries but has been repurposed by Trump to slander Haitian immigrants who are legally in the US.

The claim is false and started as triple-hearsay thrice-removed:

On Sept. 6, a post surfaced on X that shared what looked like a screengrab of a social media post apparently out of Springfield. The retweeted post talked about the person’s “neighbor’s daughter’s friend” seeing a cat hanging from a tree to be butchered and eaten, claiming without evidence that Haitians lived at the house.

So, a “screenshot” of a retweet (three levels removed from personal knowledge) talked about a “neighbor’s daughter’s friend” (three more levels removed from personal knowledge). In short, the claim is the worst sort of internet rumor—intentionally unverifiable. Repeating such a rumor is beneath a candidate for the presidency.

But the crassness of repeating the rumor is the least of the offense. Trump did not repeat a rumor—he asserted the rumor as “fact” for the purpose of stirring racial hatred against Haitian immigrants. The false rumor has been circulating for weeks among right-wing websites that attack Haitian immigrants as the cause of an increase in crime in Springfield. See WaPo, Anatomy of a racist smear: How false claims of pet-eating immigrants caught on.

Trump then leveraged the cat-eating Haitian claim to smear all immigrants as law-breaking, violent, less-than-human invaders whom he would deport en masse from the US. The entire episode was an appeal to the most racist, xenophobic backwaters of American society. It was shameful and divisive. It may lead to violence against immigrants—just as past statements by Trump have led to violence against immigrants in Texas. See NBC (8/5/2019), Trump's anti-immigrant 'invasion' rhetoric was echoed by the El Paso shooter for a reason.

No modern presidential candidate has appealed to racial animus during a presidential debate. Trump's attack on the Haitian community should have been the end of his candidacy. As should his statements about Ukraine, the 2020 election, January 6, and abortion—and that list excludes his dozens of other falsehoods.

In short, the debate should move the needle in favor of Kamala Harris. Whether it will do so is a different question—one that will be determined, in part, by whether the media maintains the same intense focus on Trump's  debate performance that it maintained on Biden’s debate performance in July. On the substance, Trump's debate performance was objectively worse, by far. Let’s hope the media doesn’t get distracted by the less consequential matters.

[Robert B. Hubbell Newsletter]

[eloisemia]

Understanding the Different Types of Medicare Supplement Plans Available

Understanding the various types of Medicare Supplement Plans (also known as Medigap plans) can be essential for individuals seeking additional coverage beyond what Original Medicare provides. Medicare Supplement Plans are standardized by the federal government and offered by medicare supplement companies. 

Here’s a breakdown of the different types of Medigap plans available:

Medigap Plan A: This is the most basic Medigap plan, covering essential benefits such as Medicare Part A coinsurance and hospital costs up to an additional 365 days after Medicare benefits are exhausted, Part B coinsurance or copayment, and the first three pints of blood.

Medigap Plan B: Plan B includes all the benefits of Plan A, plus coverage for the Medicare Part A deductible.

Medigap Plan C: Plan C offers more comprehensive coverage, including coverage for skilled nursing facility care coinsurance, Part A deductible, Part B deductible, Part B excess charges, and even limited foreign travel emergency coverage.

Medigap Plan D: Similar to Plan C, but it does not cover the Part B deductible.

Medigap Plan F: This plan provides the most comprehensive coverage among all the Medigap plans. It includes coverage for all Medicare deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance, leaving you with little to no out-of-pocket costs for Medicare-covered services.

Medigap Plan G: Plan G is like Plan F but does not cover the Medicare Part B deductible. However, once the Part B deductible is met, Plan G covers the same benefits as Plan F.

Medigap Plan K: This plan covers only 50% of the Medicare Part A deductible, Part B coinsurance or copayments, and hospice care coinsurance or copayments. Once you reach a certain out-of-pocket limit, this plan covers 100% of Medicare-covered services for the rest of the year.

Medigap Plan L: Similar to Plan K, but it covers 75% of the Medicare Part A deductible and offers a lower out-of-pocket limit.

Medigap Plan M: This plan covers the Medicare Part A deductible at 50% and also provides coverage for skilled nursing facility care coinsurance and foreign travel emergencies.

Medigap Plan N: Plan N covers the Part A deductible partially, has a copayment or coinsurance for some office visits and emergency room visits, and does not cover Part B excess charges.

Each type of Medigap plan offers a different level of coverage and cost-sharing. When choosing a plan, it’s essential to consider factors such as your health needs, budget, and how much coverage you desire.

It’s worth noting that not all Medigap plans may be available in every state, and the availability of plans may vary depending on where you live. Additionally, if you’re under 65 and eligible for Medicare due to disability or certain medical conditions, the availability of Medigap plans may be limited in some states.

Furthermore, it’s crucial to enroll in a Medigap plan during your open enrollment period, which begins on the first day of the month in which you’re both 65 or older and enrolled in Medicare Part B. During this period, insurance companies cannot deny you coverage or charge you more based on your health status.

In conclusion, understanding the different types of Medicare Supplement Plans available can help you make an informed decision about which plan best meets your needs. Whether you’re looking for comprehensive coverage or a plan with lower premiums and higher cost-sharing, there’s likely a Medigap plan that fits your preferences and budget.