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Medicare Beneficiary Information
Masspro is committed to providing beneficiaries and their families with information to help them understand the Medicare program, their rights, and their responsibilities. If you have questions or need assistance, Masspro’s Helpline (1-800-252-5533) is a great resource.
Medicare Rights and Protections
Medicare beneficiaries with Fee-For-Service Medicare (i.e., original Medicare) or Medicare Advantage Plan members have guaranteed rights and protections under the Medicare Beneficiary Protection Program. Being aware of your rights will help you make better decisions about your healthcare.
As a Medicare beneficiary, you have the right to:
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Receive quality medical care
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Appeal denied services
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Get emergency room services
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See doctors, specialists, including women’s health specialists, and go to Medicare-certified hospitals
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Participate in treatment decisions
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Know your treatment choices
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Get information in a culturally competent manner in certain circumstances. For example, you have the right to get information in languages other than English from Medicare, its providers, and its contractors.
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File complaints
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Non-discrimination
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Have your health information kept private
For more detailed information, read Your Medicare Rights and Protections, or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users, please dial 1-877-486-2048.
Since January 1, 2006, new Medicare prescription drug plans are available to people with Medicare. These plans are different from the Medicare-approved drug discount cards, which phase out by May 15, 2006, or when your enrollment in a Medicare prescription drug plan takes effect, if earlier.
If you currently have Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and/or Medicare Part B (medical insurance), you can join a Medicare prescription drug plan by May 15, 2006. Your coverage will be effective the first day of the month after 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 a part of the cost for your prescriptions, including a co-payment or coinsurance.
The SHINE (Serving Health Information Needs of the Elderly) Program can help you understand a wide range of health insurance issues including, but not limited to, options for prescription drug coverage. For more information about the SHINE Program, visit call 1-800-AGE-INFO (1-800-243-4636). TTY users, please dial 1-800-872-0166.
MassMedLine™, 1-866-633-1617, is a public-private partnership between the Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs and the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences Health Education and Resource Center. Staffed by licensed pharmacists, it provides medication counseling, drug profile review, counseling on compliance issues, referrals, and options for lower-cost medications for Massachusetts residents. It operates Monday-Friday, 8:00 am-6:00 pm.
You may also refer to “Medicare & You 2006,” the official government handbook, or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users, please dial 1-877-486-2048.
Medicare Part B Preventive Benefits
Beneficiaries with Medicare Part B coverage are entitled to the following preventive services:
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Bone mass measurements
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Cardiovascular screenings
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Colorectal cancer screening
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Diabetes screenings
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Flu shot
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Glaucoma tests
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Hepatitis B shots
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Pap test and pelvic exam (includes clinical breast exam)
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Pneumococcal shot
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Prostate cancer screening
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Screening mammogram
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"Welcome to Medicare" physical exam- a one-time benefit for new Medicare beneficiaries during the first six (6) months of Part B coverage
For more information, please refer to “Medicare & You 2006,” the official government handbook, or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users, please dial 1-877-486-2048.
Medicare beneficiaries with disabilities can get copies of publications in alternate formats designed to meet their usage needs (e.g., large-print, Braille, audiotape) by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users, please dial 1-877-486-2048. You can also visit the Medicare Publications Catalog.
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