My staff and I can assist you with questions regarding the Medicare and Medicaid and any applications you have filed with that agency. If you have been working with Medicare or Medicaid and have encountered problems, we might be able to help. If you have questions that have not been addressed here or would like help with an immigration matter, please print out my Authorization Form and contact my district office.
Also, please see the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) section of the Medicare website in addition to the information below.
How do I contact Medicare?
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services
7500 Security Blvd.
Baltimore, MD 21224-1850
Phone: 1-800-MEDICARE (800-633-4227)
TTY: 1-877-486-2048
http://www.medicare.gov/
Where can I access the official government handbook for "Medicare and You" 2006?
Beginning January 1, 2006, Medicare will offer insurance coverage for prescription drugs through Medicare Prescription Drug Plans and other health plan options. Insurance companies and private companies work with Medicare to offer these plans. If you join by December 31, 2005, you won't miss a day of coverage.
To view "Medicare and You" 2006, please visit the following website:
http://www.medicare.gov/publications/pubs/pdf/10050.pdf
You can view, print, or order publications online or by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). The fastest way to get a publication is to use our search tool and then view and print it. If you order online or through 1-800-MEDICARE, you will receive your order within 3 weeks.
How do I replace a Medicare card?
To replace a Medicare card that has been lost, stolen, or damaged, you will need to request a replacement card from the Social Security Administration (SSA) or an SSA Field Office.
You can make your request online at the following website: http://www.ssa.gov/
To make an online request, you will need the the following information:
- Your last (exact) payment amount or the month and year you last received a payment if you have received benefits in the last 12 months
- Your name as it appears on your most recent Social Security card
- Your Social Security Number
- Your date of birth
- Phone number
- Your e-mail address (optional)
How much will the new Medicare coverage for prescription drugs cost?
Like other insurance, if you join you will pay a monthly premium (generally around $37 in 2006) and a yearly deductible (up to $250 in 2006). You will also pay part of the cost for your prescriptions, including a copayment or coinsurance. Costs will vary depending on which drug plan you choose. If you have limited income and resources, and qualify for extra help, you may not have to pay a premium or deductible.
http://www.medicare.gov/
Who can join Medicare's new coverage program for prescription drugs?
Anyone with Medicare Part A and/or Part B can join a Medicare prescription drug plan offered in their area. If you are in a Medicare Advantage Plan (like and HMO or PPO), your plan may also offer prescription drug coverage. For more information please visit the following website:
http://www.medicare.gov/
What are the important dates for Medicare prescription drug coverage?
The important dates for the Medicare prescription drug coverage:
October 2005
Medicare and You handbook containing information on how to enroll.
November 15, 2005
Enrollment starts.
January 1, 2006
Coverage starts for those who enroll by December 31, 2005
May 15, 2006
Last day to enroll in 2006. Remember to enroll by this date or you will have
to wait until November 15, 2006 to join and may incur higher premiums.
For more information you can call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) or visit
http://www.medicare.gov/
