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

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If You Have a Disability
A
s we age we are more likely to have disabilities. If you
already have a disability, your care may become more complex.
Look for a doctor who will help you get the services you need.
For example, you may need to see a specialist more often.
Your Medicare HMO must pay for these services if there are
medical reasons why you need them.
Most counties
have van service
for seniors and
people with
disabilities. To
find it, call Senior
Information Line.
If you enrolled in Medicare before age 65 because of a disability,
some of your choices might change when you turn 65. Call
1-800-Medicare.
Your Right to Access to Care
Your Medicare HMO must help you
find ways to get the health care you
need. For example, you may need:
Access services, such as a ramp to
get into your doctor’s office.
Extra time for visits.
A sign language interpreter.
Health information you can use
if you are blind or have low vision.
Special medical equipment, like an
exam table or a scale for people
who use wheelchairs.
Your service animal with you in
the exam room.
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