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Medicare Expert
Patricia Barry
Patricia Barry, senior editor of the AARP Bulletin and its online Ms. Medicare columnist, is a recognized authority on Medicare and Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage. She has written extensively about Medicare and other health care issues for consumers and is author of the book Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage For Dummies (Wiley, 2008). To see questions on a wide range of Medicare issues that Ms. Barry has already answered, view the “Ask Ms. Medicare” archive below. To submit a new question, email her at msmed@aarp.org.
Ask Ms. Medicare
Archive
Eligibility
Learn about how you can qualify for health coverage under Medicare.
Enrollment
Learn about when and how to sign up for Medicare according to your circumstances.
Disenrollment
Learn about how to opt out of Medicare if you are already enrolled.
Out of Pocket Expenses
Learn about your share of Medicare costs.
Medical Coverage (Part A and Part B)
Learn about medical services covered under Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (outpatient insurance).
Prescription Drug Coverage (Part D)
Learn about how Medicare’s prescription drug program works.
Medicare Private Health Plans
Learn about the Medicare Advantage program, an alternative way of receiving Medicare benefits.
Sources of Information and Help
Learn about how to find personal help on Medicare issues.
Featured
Columns
Should You Enroll in Medicare if You Already Have VA Health Care?
Generally, yes. People with Veterans Affairs medical coverage are well served by also signing up for Medicare. Read
Can Medicare Help You Quit Smoking?
Free counseling sessions are available for those trying to kick the habit. read
Will Part B Rates Rise to $247 a Month by 2014?
No. That figure is from a bogus email designed to scare older Americans. Here's what you need to know about Medicare premiums. read
Different Medicare Enrollment Periods
Be aware of the enrollment periods that apply to you — especially as Medicare has recently changed some dates. read
Paying for Nursing Home Care: The Different Roles of Medicare and Medicaid
These programs are entirely different. And nothing in the new law changes existing laws that relate to paying for nursing home care. read
How Medigap Differs From Medicare Advantage
People often confuse the two plans, but their differences are great. Here's what you need to know. read
What Is a Medicare Hospital Benefit Period?
Learn Medicare's rules for going in and out of the hospital and how they affect your costs. read
Disabled and Waiting for Medicare
Most people under age 65 who qualify for Social Security disability must wait 24 months before becoming eligible for Medicare. read
Can You Be Penalized for Not Enrolling in Medicare?
Part B late penalties can still apply if you are not qualified for Part A. read
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