Exercising your rights is easy if you know what to do. You will often get what you want and deserve if you are persistent and refuse to take “no” for an answer. Stand your ground and fight for your rights. Remember to:

• Get help from your doctor. With a doctor on your side stating why a service is medically necessary for you, you have a much better chance of getting Medicare to cover the care you need.

• Read everything carefully. Look over any statements or documents you get from Medicare or your private Medicare plan.

• Meet deadlines. If you get a denial and want to appeal it, make sure you do so within the allowed time period.

• Call if you need more information. You have the right to have all the information you need, whether it is from your plan, provider or Medicare.
  
  For more information on your right to free help and information, click on the link in the GO TO box.
  
  
• Ask for the name of the person you are speaking with and take notes about the conversation every time you make a phone call. If someone is unable or unwilling to help you, ask to speak to his or her supervisor. Sometimes supervisors have more training, experience, and authority and are thus better able to help you.