Medicare Eligible Women and Atrial Fibrillation Danger

A recent study concludes that atrial fibrillation (a-fib) affects women more significantly than men.   A-fib is a common heart rythm problem but women are twice as likely to suffer a stroke and a high percentage will die from heart attack compared to men.  This affects all women, both young and older, Medicare eligible women.  Women should take a-fib seriously and have it monitored.

For more info on this topic, see article linked here:  http://consumer.healthday.com/women-s-health-information-34/misc-women-s-problem-news-707/common-irregular-heart-beat-may-pose-bigger-threat-to-women-than-men-707195.html

For more info on how Medicare policies address these kinds of conditions, contact me at David@ChoicesInMedicare.com or go to www.ChoicesInMedicare.com website.

Happy New Year! – New Medicare #’s to Know in 2016

It is New Year’s Day in 2016 and that means new Medicare numbers to know for this year.  In most years, CMS, who manages Medicare, increases some of the costs associated with Medicare Part A, Part B and Part D coverages.  The following shows some of the key numbers that have increased for 2016.

  • Part A deductible – Will be $1288 from $1260 (per 60 day Benefit Stay)
  • Part B Deductible – Will be $166 from $147 (Annual deductible)
  • Part B Premium – Will be $121.80 from $104.90 (Will not apply to existing 2015 beneficiaries who have it taken out of Social Security)
  • Part D Maximum Deductible – Will be $360 from $320 (Some plans don’t have a deductible)
  • Part D Premium National Average – Will be $34.10 from $33.13 (Is used to determine Part D Penalty)

While none of these are dramatic, it is still important to be aware of the changes.  Also, even with these increases, Medicare coverage and any applicable Supplemental coverages you may have is great coverage.

You can read more about this topic at Medicare.gov website by clicking on the following link:  https://www.cms.gov/Newsroom/MediaReleaseDatabase/Press-releases/2015-Press-releases-items/2015-11-10.html

If you have questions about your Choices in Medicare, please contact me at David@ChoicesInMedicare.com or go to www.ChoicesInMedicare.com