|
Hey Greg,
MeThought you had asked this before. Maybe not.
Firstly, there are MANY changes taking place right now and I'll send you the links to know WHAT is up and what to do.
Secondly, Medicare is nonchalant about sending its members their MEDICARE AND YOU! handbook. Call 1-800-MEDICARE to get one ASAP. While requesting your free copy also ask for their booklet on MEDICARE HOME HEALTH AND YOU (or something like that)
I've been on Medicare alone for 8 yrs. Getting home help was no problem UNTIL Medicare's payment method to agencies changed in 1998/99. Now it's a nightmare. You musta seen my posts on this horrible problem. You "have" to go through a Medicare approved agency and THEY (agencies) don't want long-term quads who need AIDES. Nursing, PT, OT .. Fine. Aides is a problem despite eligibility.
I had to cancel my supplemental program as it got too expensive but it's being in AZ that is the problem. Another reason we need to move. I NEED that 20% coverage Medicare doesn't pay.
Medicare pays NADA for drugs, optical, or dentistry.
Medicare will rent a bed 100% coverage for a year and then buy it if you choose that option. Buying means YOU are responsible for repairs. Continued rental = repairs covered.
To begin call 1-800-MEDICARE.
Lori
-------Original Message-------
Date: 05/05/05 15:35:41
Subject: [QUAD-L] Medicare ?
I will be getting Medicare (not Medicaid) in a few months. What can I expect
to be able to get? Will it help pay for an attendant? If so, will they only
pay a service, or can you hire someone yourself? Will they buy a new bed?
It looks like I get 4 Supplemental Insurance companies to pick from. I hope
they cover enough stuff. I'd like to stop my insurance, it's ghastly
expensive.
Greg
| 
