The Importance of Having a Medicare Supplement (Part 1)
               Since a large majority of our clients are over the age of 65 or disabled and receiving Social Security, those clients also receive Medicare benefits. Medicare does not cover long term care so as elder law attorneys we don’t spend much time addressing Medicare questions and problems.                However, I
Medicare Numbers for 2016 #Medicare2016
           The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid has announced 2016 numbers for Medicare premiums, deductibles and coinsurances. Once again, the basic Medicare Part B premium will remain the same at $104.90. That number has not changed for the past 3 years.            However, approximately 30% of beneficiaries will receive an increase
Changes in Hospitals’ Treatment of Medicare Patients (Part 2)
Last week we were talking about Medicare’s Affordable Care Act and how the government is trying to reduce Medicare costs by targeting the problem of readmissions. Beginning last October, Medicare began penalizing hospitals for having too many readmissions. So, what has the impact been in New Jersey over the past
Changes in Hospitals’ Treatment of Medicare Patients
For years hospitals have struggled with the readmission rates of their elderly and disabled patients, those on Medicare. Government spending on Medicare reached nearly $600 billion last year with a quarter of that cost attributed to hospital inpatient services. That number is projected to grow 4% a year. Last year, under
Medicare Settlement – How will it change things?
Last week I was discussing the recent settlement in the case of Jimmo v. Sebelius that will have a huge impact on Medicare recipients who need rehabilitative services at home or in a skilled nursing facility. We’ll have to wait and see how this affects care in the long term
Medicare Settlement May Affect Many
Mom has dementia, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Multiple Sclerosis or is in a general declining state of health due to advanced age. She has an acute condition or injury that requires her entry to the hospital and then to a sub acute facility for rehabilitation. Up to 100 days of rehabilitative services
An Opportunity You Don’t Want to Pass Up
This is a special time of year.  No, I’m not talking about Halloween or the traditional holiday season from Thanksgiving through New Year’s. It is Medicare’s open enrollment period, a once a year special event. Medicare is one of the many government programs that can be maddeningly confusing. There are so
65 and Still Working – Should I Enroll in Medicare? (Part 2)
What do you think about when you turn 65 in this country?  For most people, Social Security and Medicare will quickly come to mind. Last week were talking about the basics of Medicare. This week we’ll pick up where we left off with Medicare Part B. Part B covers doctors’ bills.Â
I’m 65 and Still Working – Should I Enroll in Medicare? (Part 1)
Much has been written about the oldest baby boomers starting to turn 65 next month and what it might mean for the future of long term care in this country. But, from a practical standpoint there are decisions that each new senior must make that so many are unaware of.Â
Obamacare – What Seniors Need to Know (Part 2)
So, last week we were discussing the highlights of President Obama’s health care plan that most affect seniors. The closing of the infamous prescription drug donut hole is one. But there are others.  Beginning in 2011 Medicare Advantage plans will have to reduce members’ out of pocket expenses for some more