HMO Guide for Seniors - Office of the Patient Advocate - State of ...

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Questions & Answers
Do I need Medicare Parts
A and B if I have retirement
health benefits?
Many retirement plans require
you to have Parts A and B.
Ask your employer or union
how your retiree health plan
works with Medicare.
Do I need Medicare Part
D if I have retirement
health benefits?
Ask your union or employer
if you need Part D. Read
about creditable coverage
on page 18. If you are not
sure what to do, call HICAP.
I like my HMO. Can I
keep it when I am 65 and
get Medicare?
Ask if your HMO has a
Medicare version. Some
of the rules, costs, and
benefits will change.
things you can do
Before You Retire or Turn 65, Ask Your Employer:
Will I still get health benefits when I am 65 and
can get Medicare?
When should I enroll in Medicare Part B?
When should I buy Medicare Part D coverage?
Will my spouse be covered by my retirement health
benefits when he or she turns 65 or when I turn 65?
If You Retire Before Age 65
If you do not have retirement health benefits, these
programs can help you stay insured until you can get
Medicare. You have to pay the monthly premiums.
Ask your health plan or employer about COBRA
and Cal-COBRA. They help you keep your
employer’s health plan for up to 3 years.
If COBRA or Cal-COBRA run out before you are 65,
ask your health plan about conversion coverage
and HIPAA.
Make sure you meet the deadlines for signing up
for these programs. Call the U.S. Department of
Labor or visit www.healthhelp.ca.gov.
If you have a pre-existing condition, try to keep
your health coverage with these programs. It can
be hard to get new coverage.
where to find help
Department of Managed Health Care Help Center
Information about COBRA and Cal-COBRA
1-888-466-2219 www.healthhelp.ca.gov
HICAP (Health Insurance Counseling & Advocacy)
Information on retiree plans and Medicare
1-800-434-0222 www.aging.ca.gov/hicap
U.S. Department of Labor
Information about COBRA and HIPAA
1-866-444-3272 www.dol.gov/ebsa