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.
I’m in the hospital after surgery and am getting ready to go home. I think it will be difficult to get around or leave my house for appointments and physical therapy, though. Will Medicare cover physical therapy in my home?
Dear Marci,
I didn’t enroll in Medicare when I turned 65, because I was still working and covered by my employer health insurance. Now I’m retiring at age 67 and have missed my Initial Enrollment Period. How do I enroll?
-Loretta (Tampa, FL)
Read MoreHow do I enroll in Medicare after being incarcerated?
February 13, 2023
Dear Marci,
My dad is 67 and was released from prison at the beginning of February. He didn’t enroll in Medicare when he turned 65 while he was incarcerated, so now he is back home and without health insurance. How should he enroll in Medicare now? Will he owe a late enrollment penalty?
My mother is having a kidney transplant soon, and I am helping with the logistics of her recovery. I believe Medicare should cover the immunosuppressant drugs she will need after, but the details are confusing. How will her immunosuppressants get covered?
I missed my Initial Enrollment Period so am now planning to enroll this month during the General Enrollment Period. I’ve been hearing conflicting information about it from my family and friends, though. Has the General Enrollment Period changed?
I think my Part D premium is going up in 2023, which I expected. But I’ve also heard that everyone with Medicare might be saving money on drug costs because of recent legislation. How are drug costs changing in 2023?
I have a Qualified Health Plan (QHP) from my state’s health insurance Marketplace. I’m turning 65 soon, though. Should I enroll in Medicare if I have Marketplace coverage?
I am retired from the military and am turning 65 soon. I believe I must enroll in Medicare, even though I have TRICARE benefits. How does TRICARE for Life work with Medicare?
I recently got a letter in the mail saying my Part D premium is increasing next year. I found a different plan that covers my medications for a lower premium, but I’m not sure what to do next. How do I change my Part D plan now?
I have Original Medicare and a Part D plan. I’m considering changing my Part D plan this Medicare Open Enrollment Period. How can I compare Part D plans?
I’ve had Original Medicare for a few years, but I’m planning to join a Medicare Advantage Plan during Fall Open Enrollment this year. How should I choose a Medicare Advantage Plan when there are so many options?