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Dear Marci

Dear Marci is a biweekly e-newsletter that helps consumers—people with Medicare, their families and caregivers—understand their Medicare benefits and options. Each issue features Medicare coverage advice, basic health tips and links to vital health care resources. Read recent issues below, and register today at www.medicarerights.org/newsletters.

Am I eligible for Extra Help?

March 10, 2025

Dear Marci,

I have Medicare Part D, and my doctor recently prescribed me a few new medications that I’m struggling to afford. I heard that the Extra Help program can help pay for Part D costs. What is Extra help and how do I know if I’m eligible for it?

Deepa (Warba, MN)

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How do I appeal my late enrollment penalty?

February 24, 2025

Dear Marci,

I delayed enrolling in Part B and D. I was told I could do so because I had job-based insurance. I recently received a letter informing me I will be charged a late enrollment penalty. I don’t think I should have to pay a penalty; how do I appeal my late enrollment penalty?

Lee (Bowling Green, KY)

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Will I have a late enrollment penalty? 

February 10, 2025

Dear Marci,

Dear Marci, I turned 65 last year but didn’t sign up for Medicare Part B right away, because I am still working and have employer-sponsored health insurance. A friend mentioned that I might have to pay a late enrollment penalty since I missed my Initial Enrollment Period. Is this true?

Nereyda (Montclair, NJ)

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When can I change my coverage this year? 

January 27, 2025

Dear Marci,

I recently read an article discussing the pros and cons of Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage Plans. I signed up for a Medicare Advantage Plan last year, but I want to switch to Original Medicare. When can I do that?

Kaleb (Aspen, CO)

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What is a Medigap?

December 2, 2024

Dear Marci,

I have Original Medicare costs that are really high and was told I should look into getting a Medigap policy to help with some of the costs. Can you tell me more about Medigaps?

-Aaliyah (Durham, NC)

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Should I owe a copay for cancer screenings? 

November 4, 2024

Dear Marci, I’m going in for my first routine colonoscopy and want to know if I’ll have a copay at the doctor’s office. I was told colon cancer screenings were free through Medicare. Do you know if that’s right? -Mateo (Santa Fe, NM) Read More