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Enrolling in Medicare is just the beginning of your healthcare journey. Once you’re in, how do you ensure you’re making the most of your benefits? This blog will provide you with practical tips and tricks to maximize your Medicare coverage effectively.
Assessing Your Healthcare Needs: The first step in maximizing your Medicare coverage is to evaluate your healthcare needs. Consider the following questions:
Once you have a clear picture, consider whether you might benefit from additional coverage options like a Medicare Advantage Plan or a Medigap policy, which can help cover costs that Original Medicare does not.
Staying Informed: The Medicare landscape can change frequently, so it’s vital to stay informed about your options. Regularly visit reputable resources, such as:
Patient Success Stories: Hearing from others can inspire and guide your journey. Here are some quick testimonials:
Taking charge of your Medicare journey can significantly impact your healthcare experience.
To learn more, schedule your appointment with us today: BOOK HERE
Priority Health Medicare Advantage HMO emphasizes coordinated care, ensuring members receive integrated healthcare services that focus on preventive health and wellness. This plan offers comprehensive coverage, including prescription drugs and additional benefits like dental and vision care, which are crucial for maintaining overall health.
The HMO model emphasizes the importance of primary care, with a dedicated primary care physician (PCP) who coordinates all aspects of your healthcare journey. This approach not only enhances the quality of care but also fosters a strong patient-physician relationship, ensuring that your healthcare needs are met in a personalized manner.
Priority Health Medicare Advantage HMO also offers additional benefits such as fitness programs, which encourage members to maintain an active lifestyle. These programs are designed to support your physical and mental well-being, contributing to a healthier and happier life.
Call to Action: My Virtual Physician is in-network with Priority Health Medicare Advantage HMO, providing you with seamless access to our virtual healthcare services. Our team of licensed healthcare providers is here to support you with expert medical care, tailored to your needs, from the comfort of your own home. Embrace the convenience and efficiency of virtual care, and take control of your health today.
For more information on Priority Health Medicare Advantage HMO, visit their website- https://www.priorityhealth.com/medicare/
Schedule your appointment with us today: BOOK HERE
Humana Medicare Advantage PPO is designed for individuals who seek comprehensive care with the freedom to choose their healthcare providers. This plan offers extensive coverage, including prescription drugs, preventive services, and additional benefits like wellness programs and fitness incentives.
The PPO model provides flexibility and choice, allowing members to access healthcare providers both in and out of network. This feature is particularly beneficial for individuals who travel frequently or require specialized care, ensuring that you have access to the care you need, wherever you are.
Humana Medicare Advantage PPO also emphasizes member satisfaction, providing personalized support and resources to help you achieve your health goals. Whether you need assistance managing a chronic condition or support with preventive care, this plan ensures you have the tools and resources you need to succeed.
Call to Action: As an in-network provider with Humana Medicare Advantage PPO, My Virtual Physician offers you convenient access to our virtual healthcare services. Our platform allows you to connect with experienced healthcare providers without the need for travel, ensuring your health and wellness are always prioritized. Experience the benefits of comprehensive care, tailored to your needs, from the comfort of your own home.
For more specifics on Humana Medicare Advantage PPO, visit their website here. To book your appointment, please visit our booking page.
Schedule your appointment with us today: BOOK HERE
Centene-Wellcare by Allwell in Arizona offers a Medicare Advantage plan that is tailored to meet the diverse healthcare needs of its beneficiaries. This plan is distinguished by its extensive network of healthcare providers, ensuring that members have access to a wide range of medical professionals and facilities. One of the standout features of this plan is its robust prescription drug coverage, which includes a comprehensive formulary and cost-saving options for generic medications.
In addition to prescription coverage, Centene-Wellcare by Allwell provides additional benefits that go beyond traditional Medicare offerings. These include dental and vision care, which are crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being. The plan also emphasizes preventive health services, encouraging members to take advantage of regular check-ups and screenings. This proactive approach helps in early detection and management of potential health issues, ultimately contributing to better health outcomes.
Call to Action: My Virtual Physician is proud to be in-network with Centene-Wellcare by Allwell in Arizona. This partnership allows you to access our convenient and comprehensive virtual healthcare services from the comfort of your home. Whether you need a routine check-up, a specialist consultation, or management of chronic conditions, our team of licensed healthcare providers is here to support you. Embrace the ease and flexibility of virtual care, and ensure your health is always a priority.
For more specifics on the Centene-Wellcare by Allwell plan, visit their website here. To schedule your virtual appointment with us, visit our booking page.
Schedule your appointment with us today: BOOK HERE
Medicare Advantage Plans, also known as Part C, offer an alternative way to receive your Medicare benefits. For many, these plans provide additional coverage and flexibility that can be tailored to individual healthcare needs. Let’s dive into the ins and outs of Medicare Advantage to help you decide if it’s the right choice for you.
Medicare Advantage Plans are offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. These plans bundle Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance) and often include additional benefits like prescription drug coverage, dental, vision, and hearing.
Health Maintenance Organization (HMO):Requires you to use a network of doctors and hospitals.
Typically, you need a referral to see a specialist.
May include prescription drug coverage.
Preferred Provider Organization (PPO):Offers more flexibility in choosing healthcare providers.
Lower costs when using in-network services.
Typically includes prescription drug coverage.
Private Fee-for-Service (PFFS):Allows you to see any Medicare-approved doctor who accepts the plan’s terms.
May or may not include a network of providers.
Prescription drug coverage might be included.
Special Needs Plans (SNPs):Designed for individuals with specific diseases or characteristics.
Tailored benefits to meet particular needs.
Includes prescription drug coverage.
HMO Point of Service (HMO-POS):Similar to HMOs but allows some out-of-network services at a higher cost.
May require referrals for specialists.
Several major insurance companies offer Medicare Advantage Plans, known for their comprehensive coverage and extensive networks. Some of the largest carriers include:
UnitedHealthcare:Known for its broad network and extensive plan options.
Humana:Offers a variety of plans with additional benefits like fitness programs.
Aetna:Provides competitive pricing and a range of plan choices.
Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield:Offers personalized plans with diverse benefits.
Cigna:Known for its customer service and comprehensive coverage options.
Comprehensive Coverage:Many plans include additional benefits not covered by Original Medicare, such as vision, dental, and hearing.
Prescription Drug Coverage:Most Medicare Advantage Plans include Part D prescription drug coverage, simplifying your healthcare management.
Out-of-Pocket Maximum:These plans have a yearly limit on out-of-pocket costs, providing financial protection.
Provider Network:Ensure your preferred doctors and hospitals are in the plan’s network.
Coverage Needs:Evaluate the additional benefits offered and whether they align with your healthcare needs.
Costs:Compare premiums, copayments, and out-of-pocket maximums. While some plans have low or $0 premiums, other costs may vary.
Plan Rules:Understand any rules regarding referrals, prior authorizations, and network restrictions.
Eligibility:You must be enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B to join a Medicare Advantage Plan.
Enrollment Periods:You can enroll during your Initial Enrollment Period, the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 to December 7), or during a Special Enrollment Period if you qualify.
Choosing between Original Medicare and a Medicare Advantage Plan depends on your personal healthcare needs and preferences. If you value additional coverage, lower out-of-pocket costs, and the convenience of bundled services, a Medicare Advantage Plan might be a great fit.
At My Virtual Physician, we’re here to help you navigate your Medicare options and find a plan that best suits your health and lifestyle needs. Feel free to reach out for personalized assistance and support.
Schedule your appointment with us today: BOOK HERE
Medicare Advantage Plans, also known as Part C, offer an alternative way to receive your Medicare benefits. For many, these plans provide additional coverage and flexibility that can be tailored to individual healthcare needs. Let's dive into the ins and outs of Medicare Advantage to help you decide if it's the right choice for you.
Medicare Advantage Plans are offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. These plans bundle Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance) and often include additional benefits like prescription drug coverage, dental, vision, and hearing.
Health Maintenance Organization (HMO): Requires you to use a network of doctors and hospitals. Typically, you need a referral to see a specialist. May include prescription drug coverage.
Preferred Provider Organization (PPO): Offers more flexibility in choosing healthcare providers. Lower costs when using in-network services. Typically includes prescription drug coverage.
Private Fee-for-Service (PFFS): Allows you to see any Medicare-approved doctor who accepts the plan's terms. May or may not include a network of providers. Prescription drug coverage might be included.
Special Needs Plans (SNPs): Designed for individuals with specific diseases or characteristics. Tailored benefits to meet particular needs. Includes prescription drug coverage.
HMO Point of Service (HMO-POS): Similar to HMOs but allows some out-of-network services at a higher cost. May require referrals for specialists.
Several major insurance companies offer Medicare Advantage Plans, known for their comprehensive coverage and extensive networks. Some of the largest carriers include:
UnitedHealthcare: Known for its broad network and extensive plan options.
Humana: Offers a variety of plans with additional benefits like fitness programs.
Aetna: Provides competitive pricing and a range of plan choices.
Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield: Offers personalized plans with diverse benefits.
Cigna: Known for its customer service and comprehensive coverage options.
Comprehensive Coverage: Many plans include additional benefits not covered by Original Medicare, such as vision, dental, and hearing.
Prescription Drug Coverage: Most Medicare Advantage Plans include Part D prescription drug coverage, simplifying your healthcare management.
Out-of-Pocket Maximum: These plans have a yearly limit on out-of-pocket costs, providing financial protection.
Provider Network: Ensure your preferred doctors and hospitals are in the plan's network. Coverage Needs: Evaluate the additional benefits offered and whether they align with your healthcare needs.
Costs: Compare premiums, copayments, and out-of-pocket maximums. While some plans have low or $0 premiums, other costs may vary. Plan Rules: Understand any rules regarding referrals, prior authorizations, and network restrictions.
Eligibility: You must be enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B to join a Medicare Advantage Plan.
Enrollment Periods: You can enroll during your Initial Enrollment Period, the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 to December 7), or during a Special Enrollment Period if you qualify.
Choosing between Original Medicare and a Medicare Advantage Plan depends on your personal healthcare needs and preferences. If you value additional coverage, lower out-of-pocket costs, and the convenience of bundled services, a Medicare Advantage Plan might be a great fit.
At My Virtual Physician, we're here to help you navigate your Medicare options and find a plan that best suits your health and lifestyle needs. Feel free to reach out for personalized assistance and support.
Schedule your appointment with us today: BOOK HERE
Telemedicine, also known as telehealth, improves access to healthcare without being physically present at a healthcare facility. Over digital devices with an internet connection, people can speak with a doctor and get all the help they need.
Although introduced in the late 1950s, the need and use of telehealth services recently peaked during the Covid-19 pandemic. For several reasons including lockdown restrictions, fear of getting infected, and increased burden on the healthcare system, thousands of people could not leave their homes to visit a healthcare facility. While things are seemingly back to normal, telemedicine might be here to stay for good.
The question then arises, does my health insurance cover telehealth? The answer is music to the ears. Medicare covers a wide range of medical and health-related services, and that includes telehealth. In this article, we will discuss what parts of Medicare cover telehealth services.
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Medicare is made up of different parts namely:
Each of these parts covers different medical and health-related services. Telehealth is covered by Medicare parts B and C.
Medicare Part B covers outpatient services, and since telehealth visits are treated as such, it covers telehealth services. Hence, you may enjoy the services of the following health professionals:
According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the outpatient-related telehealth services you may enjoy include:
Additionally, the price is the same. The amount people with Medicare pay for in-person outpatient services is the same amount for telehealth services. According to the CMS, Medicare covers 80% while the personal pays 20% of the cost of standard services. Some of these healthcare services may start with an in-person visit and continue with virtual visits.
Medicare Part B can also cover emergency (ambulance) transportation and limited non-emergency rides. So, if a client with Medicare needs transportation to a healthcare facility for follow-up care, its cost may be covered. The same goes for non-emergency transportation. If a client is nonambulatory or needs monitoring in transit to another facility, the cost of transportation may be covered. Clients are to check if Medicare can cover their transportation needs.
Medicare Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage is sold by private insurance companies. In 2020, it was upgraded to provide increased access to telemedicine services from home. Generally, it has the same coverage for telehealth services as original Medicare (Part A and B) but may come with additional benefits.
Since it is provided by private insurance companies, the plans may be different. Individuals should check their specific plans with their insurance provider to know what telehealth services they are entitled to enjoy.
At My Virtual Physician, we are in-network with many insurance health plans including Medicaid, Medicare, United HealthCare, and Blue Cross.
Our team is committed to ensuring that patients get the best of health care as needed. We provide virtual care at any point in your pregnancy while you await your appointment with your local OB doctor. We are also available to help guide you through your pregnancy and answer any questions that may arise.
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The new year found Americans mired in the peak of yet another SARS-CoV-2 wave, with the preceding holiday season scarred by overstretched health care systems and testing capacity. In response, the Biden administration has increased the accessibility of at-home COVID-19 tests on multiple fronts.
In January 2022, all US households became eligible to request four free rapid COVID-19 tests either via the website, COVIDTests.gov, or by calling 800-232-0233.
At the same time, the government also mandated that private health insurers cover up to eight at-home antigen tests per month, per covered individual, with reimbursement capped at $12 per testing kit (two tests per kit). Out of pocket costs vary between ~$10-25 per kit. Typically, the insurance provider will cover the upfront cost for in-network pharmacies and retroactively reimburse members who buy test kits from out-of-network pharmacies.
Although Medicare was not initially included in the coverage mandate, at the beginning of February the Biden administration announced that Medicare beneficiaries, including Medicare Advantage, would also become eligible for eight free at-home COVID-19 antigen tests per month, beginning in the early spring.
The expanded coverage will include over 60 million Americans, many of whom fall into the higher risk health category.
Medicaid recipients already have full coverage of at-home COVID-19 tests (8 per month).
Have you been looking for a Nevada healthcare provider that is in your Prominence Health Plan network? Look no further.
My Virtual Physician (MVP) is excited to announce a new partnership with Prominence Health Plan. Prominence is a respected plan provider that offers a broad network of hospital and healthcare services to its members. Together, MVP and Prominence are serving more individuals with the high quality online healthcare services they need.
Here’s what this new relationship can do for you.
Prominence Health Plan is a subsidiary of Universal Health Services (UHS), which was recognized by Fortune and Forbes as a top company in 2021.
Prominence focuses on providing their members with options for quality, convenient, cost-effective care close to home.
Prominence Health Plan began in Reno, Nevada as a commercial Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) in 1993. Since then, they have expanded to include Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) and Medicare Advantage (MA) service lines in multiple states including Nevada, Texas, and Florida.
What Does Prominence Cover?
Prominence Health Plan, like most insurers, offers different types of medical plans. Health insurance plans are similar because they cover many of the same services. Yet they can be different when it comes to:
If a plan is called a Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), the insurance plan gives members a list of doctors that are in the network. Choosing a provider that is not on the list may mean that the insurance will not cover any of the visit costs. Members are encouraged to choose an in-network provider so the services will be covered by the plan.
On the other hand, if a plan is called a Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) the member has more options. They can pick any doctor. But choosing an in-network doctor makes services more affordable because of discounts or additional coverage for using in-network providers.
It is easy to see why it is best if your doctor is in-network with your insurance plan. This is one reason why MVP is excited to announce that they have joined the Prominence Health Plan network.
MVP and Prominence have a lot in common.
They both started in Nevada.
They are both well-respected companies.
And both work to provide options for quality, convenient, cost-effective care close to home.
Prominence Health Plan and MVP are a perfect match.
MVP is a multi-specialty telemedicine team, treating patients across the US. They provide comprehensive online doctor visits to treat patients of all ages with care for obstetrical-gynecological, primary care, and pediatric services.
Virtual physician appointments are affordable and easy-to-schedule. Plus, they offer the safety and security of being seen from your home or workplace in convenient after-hours and weekend appointment times. Now with more in-network insurance coverage, MVP’s online physician services are better than ever.
MVP’s online doctors treat gynecological issues including:
As well as primary care concerns such as:
If you need to see a doctor and you’ve been looking for the best care at an affordable price, your search can stop here.
Many health concerns can be solved with a simple online consultation. The team at MVP is available now to meet with you.
Did you know My Virtual Physician is offering a promotion for September? Book now to get a free home blood pressure kit for new patients who complete an online consultation in the month of September. Don’t wait, grab your appointment spot now!
MVP’s founder Dr. Howard is a board-certified physician practicing in Las Vegas, Nevada. He is passionate about medicine and research. He has authored/co-authored several publications and is among the top 10% of scientific reviewers in the United States. Dr. Howard and his team are now accepting new patients.
MedPage Today published an article stating the following:
1. Medicare is still seeing a high and leveling use of telehealth among medicare beneficiaries.
2. Although Medicare is going down the direction of permanently increasing access to Telemedicine, private payors are actually going in the opposite direction.
3. Confirms that people who adopted telemedicine during the shutdown, and liked it, are likely to make it a permanent part of the way they see their doctors moving forward.
To read the rest of the article, click here.
