Posted on April 25, 2023.

Medicare is a federal health insurance program that provides coverage for people who are 65 years of age or older, as well as certain people with disabilities. The program is constantly changing, with new regulations and policies being introduced on a regular basis. This can make it difficult for seniors and caregivers to stay up-to-date on the latest changes and regulations. In this blog post, we'll share some tips on how to stay up-to-date on Medicare changes and regulations.

Sign Up for Medicare Email Updates

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) offers email updates on Medicare changes and regulations. By signing up for these updates, you'll receive regular emails that provide information on the latest policy changes, deadlines, and other important information. To sign up, simply visit the CMS website and enter your email address.

Attend Medicare Seminars and Workshops

Attending seminars and workshops pertaining to Medicare is another excellent approach to remaining current on the most recent developments and regulations. These events are frequently organised by groups that advocate for Medicare or by other organisations that focus on the medical needs of senior citizens. They offer the chance to get knowledge from professionals in the subject and to question specific policy changes. Check with the senior centre or community organisation in your neighbourhood to see if they host any lectures or workshops about Medicare in your region.

Follow Medicare News Sources

There is a diverse range of news outlets that report on Medicare-related policy shifts and regulations. If you follow these sources, you will be able to remain up to date on the most recent policy changes as well as any new developments regarding Medicare legislation. The Medicare Rights Centre, AARP, and Kaiser Health News are three well-known news organisations that provide coverage on Medicare-related topics. You can also check with the newspaper or news station in your area to see if they cover anything connected to Medicare.

Consult with Medicare Consultants or Advocates

Medicare consultants and advocates are experts in the field of senior healthcare. They can provide personalized advice and guidance on how to navigate the complex Medicare system. By working with a consultant or advocate, you can stay up-to-date on the latest policy changes and get help with any questions or concerns you may have about your coverage. To find a Medicare consultant or advocate in your area, check with your local senior center or community organization.

Visit the Medicare Website

The Medicare website is an important resource that may be used to learn more about the programme. It offers details on the various coverage options, the deadlines for enrolling, and the modifications to the policies. Because new content is consistently being added to the website, it is essential to revisit the page on a regular basis in order to maintain awareness of the most recent amendments and laws.

Consult with a Medicare Education Specialist

Medicare education specialists are professionals who specialize in helping seniors and caregivers navigate the complex Medicare system. They can provide one-on-one consultations and help you understand your coverage options, as well as any changes or regulations that may affect your coverage. To find a Medicare education specialist in your area, check with your local senior center or community organization.

Medicare Fraud and Abuse: How to Protect Yourself

Medicare fraud and abuse is a serious issue that affects millions of Americans each year. Fraudulent activities can include billing for services that were never provided, upcoding (charging for a more expensive service than was actually provided), and kickbacks (payments for referrals or other improper services). This can result in financial losses for Medicare beneficiaries and taxpayers, as well as potential harm to patients who receive unnecessary or unsafe treatments. Here are some tips to protect yourself from Medicare fraud and abuse:

Review Your Medicare Summary Notice

Your Medicare Summary Notice is a document that shows all of the services and supplies that Medicare has been billed for on your behalf. Reviewing this document regularly can help you identify any fraudulent or abusive activities. If you notice any discrepancies, contact Medicare immediately.

Protect Your Medicare Card

Your Medicare card contains personal information that can be used to commit fraud. Protect your card by keeping it in a safe place and only giving your Medicare number to trusted healthcare providers.

Be Wary of Unsolicited Offers

Be wary of someone trying to sell you medical services or supplies without your permission. It's possible that these offerings are bogus, which could result in you losing money or putting your health at risk. Before agreeing to receive any services or equipment from an unsolicited source, you should conduct research and discuss the matter with your physician first.

Report Suspected Fraud or Abuse

If you suspect that you or someone you know has been a victim of Medicare fraud or abuse, report it to Medicare immediately. You can also report suspected fraud or abuse to the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) or the Department of Justice.

Stay Informed

Maintaining an awareness of the most recent schemes and trends involving Medicare fraud and abuse will assist you in protecting yourself and others from engaging in fraudulent actions. On its website, Medicare provides beneficiaries with a variety of services to assist them in remaining informed, including a fraud prevention toolkit and a fraud alert programme.

In conclusion, defending yourself against fraud and abuse committed against Medicare is crucial for sustaining the program's integrity and ensuring that you will obtain the necessary medical treatments. You can lower your chances of falling prey to Medicare fraud and abuse by examining your Medicare Summary Notice, safeguarding your Medicare card, exercising caution around unsolicited offers, notifying the appropriate authorities if you suspect fraud or abuse, and keeping yourself informed. JeniCasselberry Enterprises can be reached by phone at (205) 721-0791 or via email at [email protected] if you have any issues or questions regarding Medicare fraud and abuse. You can rely on our team of knowledgeable specialists to provide you with direction and assistance as you make your way through the complicated Medicare system.