Navigating Medicare with Northeast Credit Union

Are you approaching the age of 65, or have you recently become eligible for Medicare? Perhaps you’ve seen an advertisement on TV about supplemental Medicare insurance and you’re curious about how supplemental coverage can help with your healthcare costs. At Northeast Credit Union, we understand the importance of making informed choices when it comes to your health insurance coverage. That’s why we offer tailored Medicare Supplement Plans based on a consultation with a dedicated Licensed Medicare Agent, ready to guide you through the process.

Medicare vs. Supplemental Medicare Plans: Understanding the Basics

Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people aged 65 or older, as well as individuals under 65 with disabilities or certain illnesses. It is individual health insurance that provides coverage regardless of income, based on age or disability status, funded in part by the taxes you pay while working. Medicare is not a family health plan or the same as Social Security, and it is not the same as Medicaid, which is primarily an assistance program for low-income patients’ medical expenses.

The problem with standard Medicare coverage is that it does not cover all healthcare costs. There are out-of-pocket costs, including, but not limited to, items like prescription drugs, routine dental, vision, or hearing care, eyeglasses, contacts or hearing aids. There are also long-term or custodial care, excess charges for services by doctors who don’t accept Medicare assignment, or care received outside the U.S. (except for certain circumstances). To cover these kinds of items, you would want to discuss supplemental coverage plans with a Licensed Medicare Agent, like Northeast offers to our members.

Why Choose Northeast Credit Union for Your Medicare Supplement?

What sets Northeast Credit Union apart is our commitment to tailoring your coverage to suit your unique needs and budget. We understand that there’s no “one size fits all” solution when it comes to healthcare. Our Licensed Medicare Agent, Donna Labell, is here to help you navigate the complexities of Medicare and find the perfect plan for you.

Who’s Eligible to Enroll and What If You Miss the Deadline?

Medicare initial enrollment for most individuals occurs when you turn 65, and you have a 7-month window beginning 3 months before your 65th Birthday month and ending 3 months after. If you miss the deadline, don’t worry. You can enroll during the Medicare Annual Open Enrollment Period from October 15th to December 7th every year.
An exception under the age of 65 is reserved for individuals, regardless of age, diagnosed with a qualifying disability or a diagnosis of end-stage renal disease or ALS. This open enrollment period is an excellent opportunity to re-evaluate your healthcare needs and make changes to your coverage. Donna Labell is here to assist you through this process.

When Can You Change Your Coverage?

The Medicare Annual Open Enrollment Period from October 15th to December 7th is your chance to make changes. However, there’s also a “Special enrollment period” that allows you to sign up anytime due to certain life events, such as losing health coverage, moving, getting married, having a baby, or adopting a child. You can enroll 60 days before or 60 days after such an event.

How Donna Labell Can Help You

Donna Labell, our Licensed Medicare Agent, is your go-to resource for all things Medicare. In your initial meeting with her, you can choose to meet in person at one of our Seacoast-Area Branch Locations, schedule a phone appointment, or have all the necessary paperwork sent to you if you can’t make it to a branch.

Navigating the world of Medicare can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. Schedule an appointment with Donna today and let Northeast Credit Union be your trusted partner on this journey. Your health and peace of mind are our top priorities, and we’re here to help you every step of the way.