Medicare in Arizona: What the Numbers Say

Warmer weather and a dryer climate are two things that might draw people to Arizona. This state  have over 1.3 million Medicare beneficiaries in 2020. Here are a few facts from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services about Medicare enrollment in Arizona in 2020:

Total number of beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare in Arizona:  over 1,300,000

Total number of beneficiaries enrolled in Original Medicare:    777,141

Total number of beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare Advantage and other plans in Arizona:   581,488

Medicare Advantage  prescription drug plans are available through private insurance companies that have a contract with Medicare. You may not find every plan available in every service area in the state. Each year, companies must renew their contract with Medicare. In some cases, this can change the availability of some plans in certain areas.

Where to Get Help with Medicare in Arizona

Arizona offers no-cost, unbiased resources to help residents who have questions about their Medicare coverage.

Arizona Medicare Savings Programs: If your income is lower than the government-set limit, you may be able to receive some financial help. This program helps with out-of-pocket expenses that Medicare doesn’t cover, such as co-payments, deductibles, and premiums. You can apply through the Arizona Medicaid department.

In Arizona, beneficiaries can contact the Department of Economic Security to get information about programs that are best suited for them.

Summary:

How Many Have Medicare in Arkansas?

Arkansas may be known as the home of the first Walmart. Arkansas also had more than 600,000 Medicare beneficiaries in 2020, according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

Here are some CMS statistics on Medicare in Arkansas:

• Medicare beneficiaries who live in Arkansas:  645,420
• Medicare beneficiaries in Arkansas with Original Medicare:  451,363
• Medicare beneficiaries in Arkansas with Medicare Advantage & other:   194,057

Private insurance companies must have contracts with Medicare to offer Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Prescription Drug Plans.

Since contracts vary, not all plans are available in every service area in the state.

Each year, the plan must renew its contract with Medicare. In some cases, the availability of a plan in a specific service area may change.

Getting help with  Medicare in Arkansas

If you live in Arkansas and you have questions about Medicare, there are resources available. These programs provide free information about benefits and cost saving programs with no obligation to enroll.

Arkansas Medicare Savings Program: Some beneficiaries struggle to pay for health care costs that Medicare doesn’t cover. Most savings programs in Arkansas help Medicare beneficiaries with limited income. However, even if your income is above the limit, you may still qualify.

Arkansas Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP): In Arkansas, the Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) provides one-on-one counseling and education to Arkansas residents. Their staff answers questions about things like health coverage, Medicare Supplement insurance plans, Medicare Advantage plans, and other related topics.

California has all sorts of climates, including the snowy Sierras,  foggy San Francisco, sunny Los Angeles, and dry Death Valley.

Medicare in California: By the Numbers

California, the state with the highest population, also has the most Medicare beneficiaries. To learn more about Medicare in California, here are some statistics from 2020:

• Number of Medicare beneficiaries in California:  more than 6.4 million
• California beneficiaries enrolled in Original Medicare:    3,483,908
• California beneficiaries enrolled in a Medicare Advantage or other Medicare health plan:    2,935,096

Private Insurance companies that offer Medicare Advantage and prescription drug plans must have a contract with Medicare.

Not all plans are available in every service area in the state. Contracts renew each year. In some cases, this can mean changes in the availability of plans within the state.

Help for Medicare’s Beneficiaries in California

Because California is home to so many beneficiaries, there are many programs in the state that offer financial assistance and information about Medicare in California

California Medicare Savings Programs: Depending on your income, you may qualify for help paying your Medicare Part A or Part B premiums. There are also programs that help pay for some of your prescription costs. Your income must be below a certain limit to qualify.

California State Health Insurance and Assistance Program (SHIP): SHIP is a federal grant that provides funding to each state  to offer Medicare information and counseling. In California, the SHIP grant supports the Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP). HICAP offers one-on-one counseling for Medicare beneficiaries in California. HICAP also provides information on Medicare plans, benefits, and prescription drug plans in California.

How many Medicare beneficiaries live in Colorado?

Colorado is known for world-class ski resorts and Denver, the mile-high city.  The number of Medicare beneficiaries in Colorado is approaching one million. According to statistics from the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services in 2020:

Total number of Medicare beneficiaries in Colorado:   938,854

Number of beneficiaries enrolled in Original Medicare:   525,303

Number of beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare Advantage or other plans:   413,551

Number of beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare Part A and/or Part B who don’t have  Medicare Advantage plans:  more than 530,000

If you’re enrolled in Original Medicare, which includes Part A and Part B, you can make changes to your Medicare coverage. For example, you can enroll in a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan.

You may also want to consider buying a Medicare supplement insurance plan, available from private insurance companies, to help with Original Medicare out-of-pocket costs like co-payments, coinsurance, and deductibles. Medicare Supplement insurance is available to those age 65 and older enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B. In some states, you may be able to buy a Medicare Supplement insurance plan if you’re under age 65 and eligible for Medicare due to disability or end-stage renal disease.

You can also receive Medicare in Colorado through a Medicare Advantage plan. These plans provide the same benefits as Medicare Part A and Part B and often include other benefits. Additional benefits might include prescription drug coverage and wellness programs, for example.

Insurance companies offering Medicare Advantage plans or prescription drug plans must be approved by Medicare. Not every plan may be available statewide or in all service areas. Each year, the plan must renew its contract with Medicare. This process could change the availability of a plan in a specific service area.

Availability and costs of Medicare plans may vary. No matter which Medicare plan you choose, you must continue paying your monthly Medicare Part B premium.

Getting Assistance for Medicare in Colorado

There are free resources for Colorado residents with Medicare that offer information and assistance with Medicare in Colorado.

Medicare Savings Programs in Colorado: Residents with Medicare can apply for one of the savings programs in Colorado through the state’s Department of Health Care Policy and Aging. These programs may help residents pay their Medicare Part A or Part B premiums. Normally, in order to be accepted into one of the savings programs, your income has to be below a certain limit.

Colorado State Health Insurance and Assistance Programs (SHIP): The Senior Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) has locations throughout Colorado to answer questions about Medicare. Trained counselors provide many different services for no charge, including individual counseling, presentations, and distribution of printed materials.

The product and service descriptions, if any, provided on The Medicare Resource Center pages are not intended to constitute offers to sell or solicitations in connection with any product or service. All products are not available in all areas and are subject to applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

Delaware is known as the “first state” because it was the first to approve the constitution.

Enrollment Numbers for Medicare in Delaware

Delaware had over 214,000 Medicare beneficiaries in 2020. Here is some information about Medicare in Delaware:   

Delaware beneficiaries enrolled in Original Medicare:   173,360

Delaware beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare Advantage or other plans:   40,831

Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Prescription Drug Plans are offered by private insurance companies that contract with Medicare. Depending on the terms of the contract, not every plan is available statewide or in all service areas. Contracts are renewed every year. Renewal could mean availability in a specific service area may be subject to change.

Getting Help with Medicare in Delaware

Delaware has Medicare resources available for beneficiaries who need information or help with out-of-pocket health-care expenses.

Delaware Medicare Savings Programs: These programs help pay out-of-pocket costs for beneficiaries with incomes below a set limit. This may include help with costs like premiums, deductibles, and co-payments. Contact the Delaware Medicaid department or visit the Delaware Medicare Assistance Bureau website link below to learn more.

Delaware State Health Insurance and Assistance Programs (SHIP): The Delaware Medicare Assistance Bureau (DMAB), formerly known as ELDER info, is an organization that provides free health-insurance counseling for Medicare beneficiaries. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) sponsors part of this program. To look up the contact information for a DMAB program in your area, visit the Delaware Medicare Assistance Bureau website.

Medicare in Florida by the Numbers

Florida may be known for Miami’s white sand beaches, Key West’s warm waters and overall mild winters.

Florida is a popular place to retire, which also makes it a popular place to receive Medicare benefits.

In 2020, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) reported there were more than 4.6 million Medicare beneficiaries in the state.

Here are more details about Medicare in Florida:

• Florida residents enrolled in Original Medicare:  2,378,854
• Florida residents enrolled in Medicare Advantage or other plans:   2,277,335

Private insurance companies must have contracts with Medicare to offer Medicare Advantage plans and prescription drug plans. Depending on the contract, not every plan is available statewide or in all service areas.

Each year, the plan must renew its contract with Medicare. The availability of a plan in a specific service area is subject to change.

Medicare resources in Florida

Many Florida residents take advantage of Medicare resources that provide unbiased information about Medicare in Florida:

Medicare Savings Programs: If your income is below a certain predetermined limit, you may qualify for help for some of your health care costs. Programs are available to assist you with expenses  like your premiums or deductibles. Assistance is also available for prescription costs.

Florida Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders: Most states have a program called SHIP (State Health Insurance Program) that helps beneficiaries and their families understand Medicare better. In Florida, this program is called SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders). SHINE is run by a network of volunteers and funded by a grant from CMS.

Georgia may be known for the Georgia Aquarium, the largest aquarium in the world in terms of number of fish and volume of water. As of 2020, the aquarium has four whale sharks, world’s largest fish.

 Medicare in Georgia – some interesting facts

Medicare in Georgia provides health benefits to seniors over 65 and certain disabled individuals under 65.

You must be an American citizen or legal permanent resident of at least five continuous years to be eligible for benefits.

Here are more facts about Medicare enrollment in Georgia for 2020:

• Total number of Medicare beneficiaries in Georgia:   1,768,624

• Georgia beneficiaries enrolled in Original Medicare:   1,002,357
• Medicare beneficiaries in Georgia with Medicare Advantage or other plan:   766,267

Private insurance companies that contract with Medicare can offer Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D plans in Georgia.

Not every plan is available statewide or in all service areas. Companies must renew their contracts with Medicare every year.

The availability of a plan in a specific service area may be subject to change as a result of the annual contract renewal.

Extra Help for Beneficiaries of Medicare in Georgia

Beneficiaries of Medicare in Georgia have resources available to help answer their questions about their Medicare benefits.

Georgia Medicare Savings Programs: If your income falls below a certain limit, you may qualify for assistance from a Georgia Medicare Savings Program. These programs help beneficiaries in Georgia pay for premiums, deductibles, and other health costs that Medicare doesn’t cover. Contact the Georgia Medicaid department for more information and to learn if you’re eligible.

Georgia State Health Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (SHIP): GeorgiaCares is a volunteer-based program that provides unbiased information about Medicare in Georgia. Their services are free and supported in part by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).

Checklist for Medicare in Hawaii

As of 2020, there were more than 280,000 Medicare beneficiaries in Hawaii, according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). To learn more about Medicare in Hawaii, here are some statistics:

• Total number of Hawaii residents enrolled in Medicare:  280,662
• Number of Hawaii residents enrolled in Original Medicare:   146,717

• Number of Hawaii residents enrolled in Medicare Advantage or other plans:  133,945

Who qualifies for Medicare in Hawaii?

Here’s what it generally takes to be eligible for Medicare in Hawaii. The same is true for the other states.

• Be an American citizen or legal permanent resident of at least five years in a row.

and

• Be age 65 or older.

or

• Qualify for Medicare before age 65 if you have certain disabilities. In most cases, you have to receive Social Security disability benefits for 24 months in a row before you qualify for Medicare.

Information you can use with Medicare in Hawaii

There are four “parts” to Medicare – Part A (hospital insurance), Part B (medical insurance), Part C (Medicare Advantage) and Part D (prescription drug coverage).

People on Medicare in Hawaii have access to resources to help answer questions about Medicare plans, benefits, and more. These resources may also help those with limited incomes.

Medicare Savings Programs: Hawaii offers savings programs for Medicare beneficiaries whose income falls below a certain level. These programs can help pay for things like Medicare Part A and B premiums, deductibles, and prescription drug costs.

Hawaii State Health Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (SHIP): Hawaii beneficiaries and their families can visit the Sage PLUS Program website to find out more about Medicare. Sage PLUS, a program sponsored by the State Health Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (SHIP), offers counseling via phone calls, public education meetings, or face-to-face meetings.

A few facts about Medicare in Idaho

Whether you’re skiing on a majestic mountain slope, or relaxing in a natural hot spring, you might be familiar with the state’s natural beauty. In Idaho, 346,684 people had Medicare coverage as of  August 2020. Here’s more on the types of coverage people are choosing who have Medicare in Idaho*:

• Idaho residents enrolled in Medicare Advantage or other Medicare health plans:   129,569
• Idaho beneficiaries with Medicare prescription drug coverage (through Medicare Advantage prescription drug plans or stand-alone Medicare Part D prescription drug plans): 250,138
• Idaho beneficiaries enrolled in stand-alone Medicare Part D prescription drug plans: 131,725

Your coverage options for Medicare in Idaho

Medicare Advantage plans and stand-alone Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plans are offered by private insurance companies that contract with Medicare to offer Medicare insurance plans.

There are different types of Medicare Advantage plans. Some examples include Medicare Advantage HMOs (Health Maintenance Organizations) and PPOs (Preferred Provider Organizations). Often Medicare Advantage plans include prescription drug coverage.

For those who stay with Original Medicare Part A and/or Part B, a stand-alone Medicare Prescription Drug Plan may be a good option for prescription drug coverage. You might also want to buy a Medicare Supplement insurance plan to help pay your Medicare coinsurance/co-payments and possibly other costs, like deductible amounts.

Not every Medicare plan may be available in all areas of Idaho. It’s also important to compare the costs and benefits of local Medicare plans each year. Be aware that premiums may vary among plans. Other costs may vary too, like coinsurance, co-payments, and deductibles. Some Medicare Advantage plans have premiums as low as $0. You still need to pay your Part B premium along with any plan premium.

Handy resources for Medicare in Idaho

The state of Idaho has several resources to help Medicare beneficiaries understand their coverage and, for eligible individuals, get help with Medicare costs.

Idaho Medicare Savings Programs: People with Medicare in Idaho and limited incomes and resources  may qualify for a Medicare Savings Program. Administered by Medicaid, these programs help beneficiaries with costs like Medicare premiums, co-payments, and deductibles. To learn more about eligibility, contact the Idaho Medicaid department.

Idaho State Health Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (SHIP): Senior Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA) is part of a network of health insurance assistance programs across the country that offers free, unbiased counseling on Medicare questions. Trained volunteers can be reached by phone or in-person at local SHIBA offices throughout Idaho if you have questions about Medicare. To look up the contact information for your local SHIBA office, visit Medicare.gov.

*Source: Statistical data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), “Medicare Enrollment Dashboard,” from the CMS Office of Enterprise Data & Analytics, August 2020.

The product and service descriptions, if any, provided on The Medicare Resource Center pages are not intended to constitute offers to sell or solicitations in connection with any product or service. All products are not available in all areas and are subject to applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

People on Medicare in Indiana, or visitors to the state, might enjoy exploring the covered bridges over tranquil streams. Or, maybe you prefer the lively energy of Bloomington, home of Indiana University and a variety of music.

Some facts about Medicare in Indiana enrollment

Did you know that…

• There are more than 1.2 million people on Medicare in Indiana
• About two-thirds of them 817,574 are enrolled in Original Medicare (Part A and/or Part B)
• 607,603 people on Medicare in Indiana have prescription drug coverage under Medicare Part D

Source: The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), August 2020.

Parts of Medicare in Indiana

As in the rest of the country, Medicare in Indiana is generally reserved for people age 65 and older and people who are disabled and receiving Social Security Disability Insurance. Here’s more about the four “parts” of Medicare.

• Medicare Part A, hospital insurance, is administered by the federal government. You may be automatically enrolled when you become eligible.
• Medicare Part B, medical insurance, is also administered by the federal government. You may be automatically enrolled when you are eligible. Together, Medicare Part A and Part B are called “Original Medicare.”
• Medicare Part C, also called Medicare Advantage, combines the benefits of Medicare Part A and Part B. It is offered by private insurance companies contracted with Medicare in Indiana (and in all states). Medicare Advantage plans often offers extra benefits that Original Medicare generally doesn’t cover, such as prescription drug coverage and routine vision and routine dental coverage.
• Medicare Part D, prescription drug coverage, is offered by private insurance companies contracted with Medicare. Medicare Part D is available as a stand-alone plan that can be used alongside Original Medicare. Medicare Part D coverage can also be part of a Medicare Advantage plan.

Medicare Supplement insurance

If you decide to stay with Original Medicare instead of getting a Medicare Advantage plan, you might want to consider a Medicare Supplement insurance plan. This is not one of the “parts” of Medicare, but it’s designed to work alongside Part A and Part B.

Medicare Supplement insurance is sold by private insurance companies in Indiana. It helps cover some of the costs of Original Medicare, such as coinsurance, co-payments, and deductibles.

Medicare in Indiana – what coverage people choose

Let’s take a look at the general population in Indiana, and zero in on those on Medicare in Indiana. According to the United States Census Bureau, the population of Indiana in 2017 was 6.6 million. Over 1.2 million people, roughly 18% of the population of Indiana, are Medicare beneficiaries in 2020, according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).

Fewer people were enrolled in Medicare Advantage in Indiana than in Original Medicare in 2020. About one third of Medicare beneficiaries in Indiana are enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans, while two thirds are enrolled in Original Medicare, according to CMS.

Many people on Medicare in Indiana choose a stand-alone Medicare Part D prescription drug plan to work alongside their Original Medicare coverage in Indiana. More than 600,000 people with Medicare in Illinois are enrolled in stand-alone Prescription Drug Plans compared to over 390,000 enrolled in Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plans, according to CMS.

Medicare plans in Indiana – trends

The trend among people with Medicare in Indiana seems to show a preference for Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plans. Between 2014 and 2018, CMS reports enrollment in Medicare Advantage and other Medicare plans rose from 22% to 29% among people with Medicare in Indiana.

According to CMS, 100% of people with Medicare in Indiana have access to at least one of 98 Medicare Advantage plans in the state in 2020. Not all plans may be available in all areas.

There are 28 stand-alone Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plans available in Indiana in 2020, according to CMS.

Resources for Medicare in Indiana

Indiana Medicare Savings Program: this program helps eligible, low-income Medicare beneficiaries pay for Medicare with the Medicaid program. You may be eligible depending on your monthly income and assets.

Indiana Extra Help Program: this program specifically helps pay for Medicare prescription drug costs, including your prescription drug plan’s monthly premium, yearly deductible, coinsurance and co-payments. According to CMS, 25% of people who have stand-alone Medicare prescription drug plans in Indiana get Extra Help.

Indiana State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP): this programs provides free health insurance counseling for people with Medicare.

The product and service descriptions, if any, provided on The Medicare Resource Center pages are not intended to constitute offers to sell or solicitations in connection with any product or service. All products are not available in all areas and are subject to applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

Medicare in Iowa – by the numbers

Being on Medicare in Iowa, maybe you have time to enjoy the fishing and hiking opportunities so abundant in Iowa. Medicare coverage is available in Iowa for eligible people aged 65 and over, and certain disabled people of any age. Some people may qualify for Medicare in Iowa due to disability, even if they’re under age 65. To be eligible for Medicare, you must be either a U.S. citizen or a legal permanent resident of at least five continuous years.

Here’s a look at who’s on Medicare in Iowa in 2020:*

• Iowans  with Medicare coverage:  637,393
• Iowans  enrolled in Medicare Part D prescription drug plans:  377,003
• Iowans enrolled in Medicare Advantage or other plans:  160,778

Medicare in Iowa – a quick overview

There are four “parts” to Medicare.

• Medicare Part A is hospital insurance. It generally covers inpatient hospital stays. You might have to pay a deductible and coinsurance.
• Medicare Part B is medical insurance. It may cover doctor and clinic visits, and a number of medical services. You might have to pay a deductible, and coinsurance or co-payments.

Part A and Part B make up “Original Medicare.” This is generally what many people are enrolled in automatically.

• Medicare Advantage (Part C) is an optional way to get your Original Medicare benefits. Private insurance companies contract with Medicare to deliver these benefits to you. Medicare Advantage plans often have benefits beyond Part A and Part B, like prescription drug coverage. You might have to pay a deductible and coinsurance.
• Medicare Part D is optional prescription drug coverage. You can get this coverage through a stand-alone Medicare Part D prescription drug plan, or through a Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plan.

Because benefits, costs, and plan availability can all change from year to year, it’s a good idea to review your Medicare coverage on an annual basis to ensure that it still meets your health and financial needs.

Resources for information on Medicare in Iowa

Iowa Medicare Savings Programs: Iowa Medicare beneficiaries with limited incomes can apply for assistance with out-of-pocket Medicare costs. These costs may include premiums, co-payments, and deductibles. To be eligible for a Medicare Savings Program, you must meet certain income and asset requirements. For the most up-to-date eligibility information, contact the Iowa Medicaid department, which administers Medicare Savings Programs in the state. You can also visit the Iowa Department of Human Services website to learn more.

Iowa State Health Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (SHIP): The Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) is a resource for Iowans. It supports Iowans by providing free, unbiased information on health coverage and Medicare in Iowa. SHIIP’s website has a list of their office locations by county; to look up the contact information for the nearest SHIIP office, visit the Senior Health Insurance Information Program website.

*Source: Statistical data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), “Medicare Enrollment Dashboard,” from the CMS Office of Enterprise Data & Analytics, August 2020.

Important facts and figures about Medicare in Kansas 

In Kansas, as in the rest of the country, Medicare is a federally administered program that provides health coverage for eligible people aged 65 and older, and those who qualify by disability.

You might also qualify for Medicare in Kansas at any age if you have end-stage renal disease or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig’s disease). The same is true nationwide.

To be eligible, you must also be an American citizen or legal permanent resident of at least five continuous years.

Here are some additional facts about Medicare in Kansas in 2020*:

• Total number of people with Medicare in Kansas:  545,781
• Total number of Kansas beneficiaries with Medicare prescription drug coverage:  402,204
• Kansas beneficiaries enrolled in stand-alone Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plans:  298,132
• Kansas beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plans:  104,072

You can search for Medicare plan options in Kansas for your specific zip code here.

Keep in mind that costs, benefits, and plan availability will vary among Medicare plans in Kansas. It’s a good idea to compare Medicare plans in Kansas to see which plans might best serve your needs and compare costs.

You can enter your prescription drugs right into The Medicare Resource Center's plan comparison tool.

Get answers to your questions about Medicare in Kansas

Kansas Medicare Savings Programs: People with Medicare in Kansas and limited incomes may be able to get help with certain out-of-pocket costs through Medicare Savings Programs. These programs help with costs like premiums, copayments, and deductibles. For more information on eligibility and how to apply, contact the Kansas state Medicaid department.

Kansas State Health Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (SHIP): Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas (SHICK) is a free program that gives Kansans an opportunity to talk with trained volunteers and get answers to their questions about Medicare in Kansas.

*Statistical data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), “Medicare Enrollment Dashboard,” from the CMS Office of Enterprise Data & Analytics, 2020.

Medicare in Kentucky – by the numbers

People with Medicare in Kentucky may have some options when it comes to how to get their Medicare benefits. The following data sheds some light on Medicare enrollment in Kentucky as of 2020*:

• Total number of state residents enrolled in Medicare in Kentucky: 942,126
• Total number of Kentucky beneficiaries enrolled in a Medicare Advantage or other plans:   367,748
• Total number of Kentucky beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare prescription drug coverage:   736,138
• Kentucky beneficiaries enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug plan:   302,448
• Kentucky beneficiaries enrolled in a stand-alone Medicare Prescription Drug Plan:  433,690

Private insurance companies that offer Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Prescription Drug Plans must have contracts with Medicare. Not every plan is available statewide or in all service areas.

Medicare in Kentucky – programs that may offer help

Kentucky Medicare Savings Programs: For those on Medicare in Kentucky who have low incomes, Kentucky Medicare Savings Programs may offer financial relief by paying all or some of your health care expenses. Savings programs can help with Part A and Part B premiums, deductibles, and other health costs. Visit Kentucky’s Medicaid web page for more information.

Kentucky State Health Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (SHIP): The Kentucky State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) provides free, unbiased information and assistance to seniors and disabled Medicare beneficiaries. This program educates people about Medicare so they can make informed decisions about their care.

*Source: Statistical data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), “Medicare Enrollment Dashboard,” from the CMS Office of Enterprise Data & Analytics, August 2020.

More than three quarters of Medicare beneficiaries in Louisiana have Medicare prescription drug coverage. Low income people with Medicare in Louisiana may be able to get financial help through certain state programs.

Medicare in Louisiana – what coverage are people choosing?

Here are a few facts from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) about Medicare enrollment in Louisiana*:

• Number of Louisianans enrolled in Original Medicare:    509,430
• Number of Louisianans enrolled in Medicare Advantage or other plans:  374,716 
• Number of Louisianans who have Medicare prescription drug coverage: 687,210 (over 76%)
• Total number of Louisianans enrolled in Medicare:   884,146

Note that Medicare Advantage plans in Louisiana give you a way to get your traditional Medicare coverage – Part A and Part B – through a private, Medicare-approved insurance company.

Medicare Advantage plans in Louisiana usually include prescription drug coverage. Some of the Medicare Advantage plans have extra benefits you don’t get from Part A and Part B, like routine dental services or even transportation to your doctor appointments in some cases.

State programs that can help if you have Medicare in Louisiana

Louisiana Medicare Savings Programs: Discounts are available to residents of Louisiana who need financial assistance with some of their medical costs. Normally to qualify for a Louisiana Medicare Savings Program, your income has to be below a certain limit, but the only way to see if you qualify is by applying.

Louisiana State Health Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (SHIP): The Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) provides counseling on various topics like Medicare claims and the Medicare appeals process. You can speak to a volunteer counselor in person or over the phone, or you can use an online tool.

*Source: Statistical data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), “Medicare Enrollment Dashboard,” from the CMS Office of Enterprise Data & Analytics, 2020.

Stats and facts about Medicare in Maine

As you drive up Maine’s rugged and rocky coast, you may notice that Maine is not a highly populated state. Still, Maine has many Medicare beneficiaries (over 346,000 as of 2020*). And people with Medicare in Maine may have options about how they receive their Medicare benefits, just as their neighbors in more populous states have. Here are some statistics about Medicare beneficiaries in Maine and their coverage choices in 2020:

• Number of Maine beneficiaries with Medicare prescription drug coverage:  267,228
• Number of Medicare beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare Advantage  or other plans:   150,878
• Maine residents with Medicare  enrolled in stand-alone Medicare Part D prescription drug plans:  125,357

Maine residents enrolled in Medicare Advantage prescription drug plans: When people think of Medicare, several different types of programs may come to mind. Original Medicare, Part A and Part B, is the federal fee-for-service program. You may be eligible for Medicare when you turn 65. You can also qualify at any age through disability or having certain conditions, such as end-stage renal disease or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease).

To be eligible for Medicare in Maine (or any state), you must be either a U.S. citizen or have lived in the U.S. legally for at least five years in a row.

Medicare in Maine: coverage options

Original Medicare includes Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance). You’re enrolled into this program automatically at age 65 if you’re already receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board retirement benefits. If you have a disability, you’re automatically enrolled into Medicare the 25th month of receiving disability benefits in most cases. If you have ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or Lou Gehrig’s disease), you’re enrolled into Original Medicare your first month of receiving disability benefits. If you have end-stage renal disease (ESRD), you may be entitled to Medicare benefits; contact Medicare to ask about your eligibility (information below).

There are other Medicare coverage options beyond Original Medicare.

• You can get your Medicare Part A and Part B benefits through a Medicare Advantage plan offered by a private insurance company approved by Medicare. Medicare Advantage plans provide the same coverage as Medicare Part A and Part B (except hospice care, which is covered by Medicare Part A even if you have a Medicare Advantage plan). Many Medicare Advantage plans may also include more benefits, such as prescription drug coverage and routine dental services. You must still pay your Part B premium, along with any premium the Medicare Advantage plan may charge.
• If you stay with Original Medicare, you can extend your coverage in two different ways (you can choose one or the other, both, or neither).
  • A stand-alone Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plan can cover your medications. These plans are available from private, Medicare-approved insurance companies. Each has its own formulary, or list of covered drugs. You may want to make sure your prescription medications are included in a plan’s formulary before you enroll in the plan. Not every plan covers every medication.
  • A Medigap (Medicare Supplement) insurance plan can help pay your Original Medicare out-of-pocket costs, such as co-payments and deductibles.

To enroll in any of these plans, you must be enrolled in both Medicare Part A and Part B (except in the case of stand-alone Medicare prescription drug plans — you need either Part A or Part B to qualify). Prices, availability, and some coverage details may vary among insurance companies and specific locations in Maine.

State assistance with Medicare in Maine

Medicare Savings Programs: If you get your health benefits from Medicare in Maine, and have limited income and assets, you may be able to get financial help with out-of-pocket expenses from a Medicare Savings Program. To apply, contact the Maine Bureau of Insurance.

Maine State Health Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (SHIP): People in Maine who have Medicare can get free health insurance counseling through the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). Specially trained staff will answer your Medicare questions either on the phone or at one of their local offices.

Enrollment in Medicare in Maine

Enrollment works the same way in Maine as in the other states. If you don’t qualify for automatic enrollment, you can contact Social Security at ssa.gov. If you want to change your coverage or get answers to questions, you can contact  a licensed insurance agency such as  The Medicare Resource Center. 

*Source: Statistical data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), “Medicare Enrollment Dashboard,” from the CMS Office of Enterprise Data & Analytics, August 2020.

Maryland is the home of bustling Baltimore Harbor, with its aquarium, science museum, children’s museum, and much more. It’s also the home of many people on Medicare in Maryland.

A few facts about Medicare in Maryland

There are more than 1 million beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare in Maryland. To learn more about Medicare in Maryland, here are some 2020 statistics:*

• Medicare beneficiaries in Maryland enrolled in Original Medicare:    918,486   
• Medicare beneficiaries in Maryland enrolled in Medicare Advantage or other plans:   137,950
• Total number of beneficiaries who have Medicare prescription drug coverage in Maryland:  663,351
• Maryland beneficiaries with stand-alone Medicare Prescription Drug Plans:    548,927

Coverage options for Medicare in Maryland

You might have a few options for your Medicare coverage in Maryland.

Original Medicare refers to Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance). Generally you can get this coverage in either of two ways.

• When you qualify for Medicare, you can enroll in Part A and Part B. You might be automatically enrolled (generally if you’re already collecting Social Security benefits when you become eligible for Medicare).
• You can decide to get your Medicare Part A and Part B benefits through a Medicare Advantage plan. These plans are offered by private, Medicare-approved insurance companies. Most Medicare Advantage plans include prescription drug coverage. Many plans include extra benefits, such as certain fitness program memberships. If you qualify for health reasons, some plans might even include a weight management program.

If you stay with Original Medicare, you may be able to add to your coverage:

• Through a stand-alone Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plan. As the name implies, this type of plan may cover your medications, but you should check to make sure before you pick a plan. These plans are offered by private, Medicare-approved insurance companies.
• With a Medicare Supplement insurance plan. This type of plan may help pay out-of-pocket costs of Medicare Part A and Part B. These plans are sold by private insurance companies.

Costs, availability, and some coverage details may vary among plans offered through insurance companies instead of directly through the government. So it may be wise to compare plans before you sign up.

Learn about help with Medicare in Maryland

Maryland Medicare Savings Programs: People enrolled in Medicare in Maryland who have limited incomes can apply for assistance. There may be programs that help pay some or all of certain Medicare costs. For more information on Maryland Medicare Savings Programs, visit their site Maryland’s Medicaid website.

Maryland State Health Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (SHIP): The Senior Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) helps seniors understand their health insurance benefits. In Maryland, the SHIP program has trained staff and volunteer counselors in all 24 counties who can answer your questions about Medicare.

*Source: Statistical data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), “Medicare Enrollment Dashboard,” from the CMS Office of Enterprise Data & Analytics, August 2020.

The product and service descriptions, if any, provided on The Medicare Resource Center pages are not intended to constitute offers to sell or solicitations in connection with any product or service. All products are not available in all areas and are subject to applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

Medicare in Minnesota: quick facts

Minnesota may be known for the first Target, cold snowy winters, and ice hockey.

In 2020, over 1 million people were enrolled in Medicare in Minnesota, according to data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

Here is more information on 2020 enrollment in Medicare in Minnesota:

• Beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare Advantage or other plans in Minnesota:  510,974
• Beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug plans in Minnesota:   440,049

Interested in learning more about Medicare in Minnesota and ways to get coverage? If you have Original Medicare, you might consider enrolling in a stand-alone Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plan for help with medication costs. Or, you could get your Part A, Part B, and Part D benefits through a Medicare Advantage plan instead.

Private insurance companies must have contracts with Medicare to offer Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Prescription Drug Plans. Keep in mind that not every Medicare plan in Minnesota is available statewide or in all service areas. Each year, the plan must renew its contract with Medicare, so plan availability may change.

State resources for Medicare in Minnesota

Medicare Savings Programs: If you have Medicare in Minnesota and have limited resources and assets, then you may qualify for a Medicare Savings Program. This pays for all or some of the things that Medicare doesn’t cover.

Minnesota State Health Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (SHIP): The Minnesota Board on Aging has a team of volunteers that help seniors who have questions about Medicare. This program is called the Minnesota State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), and it offers assistance to people with Medicare in Minnesota.

Source: Statistical data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), “Medicare Enrollment Dashboard,” from the CMS Office of Enterprise Data & Analytics, 2020.

Summary:

Overview of Medicare in Montana

Medicare is a federal program that provides health coverage for Montana residents who qualify by age, disability, or having certain health conditions (such as end-stage renal disease or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis).

When it comes to Medicare in Montana, as in the rest of the country, you can get your benefits through Original Medicare, the federally administered program that includes Part A (hospital coverage) and Part B (medical coverage).

Here are a few statistical trends from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services on Medicare enrollment in Montana in 2020:

• Beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare in Montana:   237,162
• Beneficiaries enrolled in stand-alone Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plans: 120,365
• Beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug plans: 44,299

Medicare in Montana: coverage options

Original Medicare isn’t the only option if you have Medicare in Montana. You can, as an alternative way to get your Original Medicare benefits, get your Medicare Part A and Part B coverage through a Medicare Advantage plan (such as a Medicare HMO). These plans must provide at least the same level of coverage as Original Medicare, but may also include other benefits, such as hearing, routine dental, or prescription drugs.

Medicare Advantage plans that include prescription drug coverage are known as Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug plans.

If you decide to get your coverage through Original Medicare but would like prescription drug benefits (Medicare Part D), you can get this through a stand-alone Medicare Prescription Drug Plan. Original Medicare doesn’t automatically include prescription drug coverage; you must manually enroll in a separate plan to get Medicare Part D benefits.

Both Medicare Advantage and Medicare Prescription Drug Plans are available through private insurance companies that contract with Medicare. Plan availability, costs, and benefits may vary by location, so always make sure to research Medicare plan options for your specific zip code and county in Montana.

Medicare in Montana: resources for residents

Montana Medicare Savings Programs: If you have Medicare in Montana, you may be eligible for help with Medicare costs if they have limited income or assets. Depending on the level of assistance you qualify for, Medicare Savings Programs may help pay for premiums, co-payments, coinsurance, and deductibles. To find out if you’re eligible for a Medicare Savings Program in Montana, contact the Montana Medicaid department.

Montana State Health Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (SHIP): The Montana State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) is a free counseling service for Medicare beneficiaries and their families or caregivers. The program is funded by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and may be a good resource if you need more information on how Medicare in Montana works and your coverage options.

Here’s a helpful overview of how Medicare in Nebraska works, including:

• Statistical state trends
• What your coverage choices are
• Where to go if you have questions 

Medicare in Nebraska: looking at the numbers

Here are some statistics about Nebraskans enrolled in Medicare as of 2020 according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). :

• Total number of residents with Medicare in Nebraska: 353,755
• Medicare beneficiaries enrolled in a Medicare Advantage and other plans in Nebraska:    71,691
• Medicare beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare Part D in Nebraska:    263,978

Medicare in Nebraska: eligibility and coverage choices

Are you newly eligible for Medicare in Nebraska and not sure what you need to do?

Many American citizens and legal permanent residents of at least five continuous years are automatically enrolled in the Medicare program. This might apply to you when you turn 65 if you’re already receiving retirement benefits.  Or, you may be eligible for Medicare at any age, if you qualify by disability or through having end-stage renal disease or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease).

Original Medicare includes Medicare Part A, which is hospital insurance, and Part B, which is medical insurance.

Original Medicare doesn’t include most prescription drug coverage, and Medicare Part A and Part B has out-of-pocket costs. If you have Medicare in Nebraska, you can enroll in optional health insurance plans to get help with these costs.

• Medicare Part D is prescription drug coverage available from private, Medicare-approved insurance companies. A stand-alone Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plan can work alongside your Original Medicare coverage.
• To help with Original Medicare’s out-of-pocket costs, you can apply for a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) insurance plan, also available from private insurance companies. There are up to 10 standardized Medigap insurance plans in most states, including Nebraska. Each plan covers a different level of Medicare out-of-pocket costs, such as deductibles and co-payments.

Instead of staying with Original Medicare, you may have the option of receiving your Medicare coverage through a Medicare Advantage plan. These plans are available through private insurance companies that have contracts with Medicare, and they’re required to include the same benefits as Medicare Part A and Part B (except for hospice care, which Medicare still covers). Most Medicare Advantage plans include prescription drug coverage, and many may offer additional benefits, such as routine vision and hearing care.

No matter what Medicare plan option you may choose, you need to continue paying your Medicare Part B monthly premium. You must live within the plan’s service area. And there are certain time periods when you can enroll in the plan options described above.

Medicare resources in Nebraska: resources for residents

Medicare Savings Programs in Nebraska: For low-income beneficiaries that live in Nebraska, there are programs that offer discounts on expenses like premiums and coinsurance. Any beneficiary can apply to a Medicare savings program to see if he or she qualifies for financial assistance. For information, see the Nebraska Department of Health & Human Services website.

Nebraska State Health Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (SHIP): The Nebraska Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) is a free counseling service to help beneficiaries who would like more information about Medicare. They offer both online resources and community events.

 The product and service descriptions, if any, provided on The Medicare Resource Center pages are not intended to constitute offers to sell or solicitations in connection with any product or service. All products are not available in all areas and are subject to applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

*Statistical data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), “Medicare Enrollment Dashboard,” from the CMS Office of Enterprise Data & Analytics, August 2020.

Medicare in Nevada: enrollment statistics

Nevada is home to over 540,000 Medicare beneficiaries in 2020, according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Here is some information on enrollment for Medicare in Nevada:

• Total enrollment for Medicare in Nevada:    546,598
• Total enrollment for Medicare Advantage and other plans in Nevada:  220,703
• Beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare Part D Stand Alone plan:    178,696
• Nevada Beneficiaries enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug plan:    390,013

Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Prescription Drug Plan in Nevada are offered through private insurance companies with a contract with Medicare.

Because contract terms vary, not every Medicare plan in Nevada is available statewide or in all service areas. If you’re interested in a specific plan option, always check availability for your zip code and county.

Resources for Medicare in Nevada

Nevada Medicare Savings Programs: For Nevada residents whose incomes fall below a certain amount, there are savings programs that offer discounts on costs Medicare doesn’t cover, like your Part A premium. You can apply to see if you qualify.

Nevada State Health Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (SHIP): The State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) provides information to beneficiaries in Nevada. They offer a statewide network of volunteers who can answer questions regarding Medicare, supplemental health insurance and long-term care options.

Statistical overview of Medicare in New Hampshire

As of 2020, New Hampshire was home to over 306,000 Medicare beneficiaries, according to CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) data. Here is some information on enrollment for Medicare in New Hampshire in 2020:

• 67,948 beneficiaries had Medicare Advantage and other plans.
• 239,000 people with Medicare in New Hampshire had Original Medicare.
• 213,589 beneficiaries were enrolled in Medicare Part D (stand-alone Medicare Prescription Drug Plans or Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug plans).
• 51,920 beneficiaries were enrolled in Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug plans, while over 161,669  were enrolled in stand-alone Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plans.

In other words, Original Medicare remains the most popular Medicare coverage choice. Many people with Medicare in New Hampshire also choose to get prescription drug benefits through either a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan or, alternatively, through a Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug plan.

Like the rest of the country, Medicare in New Hampshire works the same way when it comes to Medicare plans like Medicare Advantage or prescription drug coverage.

Private insurance companies must be contracted with Medicare to offer Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Prescription Drug Plans. Because not every plan is available in New Hampshire in all service areas, it’s important to always research options for your zip code. Each year, the plan must renew its contract with Medicare, so plan availability may change.

Resources for Medicare in New Hampshire

Medicare Savings Programs: Residents enrolled in Medicare in New Hampshire can apply for savings programs to get discounts on medical bills. Most programs only accept beneficiaries with limited incomes, but the only way to know for certain if you qualify is to apply.

New Hampshire State Health Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (SHIP): A grant from the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services supports ServiceLink resource centers in New Hampshire. These centers have trained Medicare specialists in every county that give free and confidential health insurance counseling and will help beneficiaries apply for Medicare Savings Programs.

Facts on Medicare in New Jersey

Did you know that there are over 1, 630,000 people with Medicare in New Jersey, according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)? Here are some quick facts about the number of Medicare beneficiaries in New Jersey, by type of coverage:

• Residents enrolled in Medicare in New Jersey: 1,633,826
• Beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare Advantage and other plans:    530,740
• Beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare Part D:   1,238,591
• New Jersey beneficiaries enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan that includes prescription drug coverage:    339,979

If you have Original Medicare in New Jersey, you may not realize you have other options as well. Medicare Advantage plans are a different way to get your Original Medicare benefits. Some plans may also have extra coverage like prescription drug coverage, routine vision, or dental. If you stay with Original Medicare, you might also add a stand-alone Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plan to help with prescription drug costs.

Medicare Advantage plans and stand-alone Medicare Prescription Drug Plans are available through Medicare-contracted private insurance companies. Because contract terms may vary, not every Medicare plan is available statewide or in all service areas in New Jersey. So always check plan availability for your service area and county in New Jersey

Resources for Medicare in New Jersey

New Jersey Medicare Savings Programs: If you are enrolled in Medicare Part A and have limited resources and assets, then you may be eligible for a New Jersey Medicare Savings Programs that can help cover some of your out-of-pocket expenses for health care.

New Jersey State Health Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (SHIP): The State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) provides free help to New Jersey residents who have concerns or questions about Medicare. There are volunteer counselors available to help beneficiaries make informed decisions about their health care.

By the numbers

As of 2020, there were more than 430,000 people living in New Mexico who were enrolled in Medicare, either because of age or disability according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Below is more information on Medicare in New Mexico:

• Medicare beneficiaries in New Mexico enrolled in Medicare through Original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage and other health plans: 431,894
• Medicare beneficiaries in New Mexico enrolled in Original Medicare:   260,190
• Medicare beneficiaries in New Mexico enrolled in a Medicare Advantage and other plans:    171,704
• New Mexico beneficiaries enrolled in a stand-alone Medicare Prescription Drug Plan: 152,766

Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Prescription Drug Plans are available through private insurance companies that contract with Medicare to offer Medicare insurance plans (such as a Medicare HMO or a Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plan). Depending on the terms of the contract between the plan and Medicare, not every plan is available statewide or in all service areas. Each year, the plan must renew their contract with Medicare, so the availability of a plan in a specific service area is subject to change as a result of the annual contract renewal.

Medicare resources in New Mexico

New Mexico Medicare Savings Programs: Beneficiaries that live in New Mexico may be able to save money on Medicare each year through savings programs for people with limited income. These programs can help pay for some of Medicare’s premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance. To learn more and to apply, contact the New Mexico Medicaid Department.

New Mexico State Health Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (SHIP): This is a national program that offers free, unbiased, and personal counseling to people with Medicare and their families. Coordinators in New Mexico answer questions about Medicare, the prescription drug program, Medicaid, veterans benefits and other health insurance related topics.

Medicare in New York: current state trends

There are over 3.67 million residents with Medicare in New York State, making it one of the states with the highest number of Medicare beneficiaries, according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

Here are some statistics about Medicare in New York:

• Beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare through Original Medicare or Medicare Advantage and other plans: 3,676,090
• New York beneficiaries enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan or other plan:    1,615,546
• Beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare Part D in New York:   2,918,701
• New York beneficiaries with a stand-alone Medicare Prescription Drug Plan: 1,432,938

Residents with Medicare in New York can get their coverage in a few ways. If you have Original Medicare, you might enroll in a stand-alone Medicare Prescription Drug Plan for help with medication costs. Or, you might decide to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan as another way to get your Part A and Part B benefits. Medicare Advantage plans may also cover additional benefits, such as prescription drug coverage or wellness programs.

When it comes to Medicare in New York, like the rest of the country, Medicare plans like Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Prescription Drug Plan are offered through Medicare-contracted private insurance companies. Because plan availability may depend on where you live, always search for Medicare plans in New York for your specific zip code. 

Getting help with Medicare in New York 

New York Medicare Savings Programs: Programs in New York can assist beneficiaries in paying for things like their monthly premiums. Usually in order to qualify, your income and assets have to be lower than a certain limit that is set by the government each year.

New York State Health Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (SHIP): In New York, SHIP is called the Health Insurance Information, Counseling and Assistance Program (HIICAP). HIICAP educates New York residents about Medicare and other health insurance issues. HIICAP also can assist beneficiaries who want to apply for Medicare Savings Programs.

*Statistical data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), “Medicare Enrollment Dashboard,” from the CMS Office of Enterprise Data & Analytics, August 2020.

Stats on Medicare in North Carolina

You may have had a memorable drive in North Carolina along the Blue Ridge Parkway in the fall. In 2020, more than 2 million people had Medicare in North Carolina. To learn more about Medicare in North Carolina, here are some August 2020 statistics reported by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS):

• Medicare beneficiaries in North Carolina enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans and other plans:    827,559
• Medicare beneficiaries in North Carolina with Medicare prescription drug coverage:    1,556,205
• Medicare beneficiaries in North Carolina in total: 2,029,697 

Private insurance companies must have contracts with Medicare to offer Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Prescription Drug Plans. Depending on the terms of the contract between the plan and Medicare, not every plan is available statewide or in all service areas. Each year, the plan must renew its contract with Medicare, so the availability of a plan in a specific service area is subject to change.

Two state resources for Medicare in North Carolina

North Carolina Medicare Savings Programs: North Carolina has Medicare Savings Programs that help beneficiaries each year. If you have limited income or resources, you may qualify for discounts on your out-of-pocket expenses, such as premiums and deductibles.

North Carolina State Health Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (SHIP): In North Carolina, SHIP staff members counsel Medicare beneficiaries and caregivers on many different Medicare related topics. The counselors also help beneficiaries and their caregivers recognize and prevent billing errors and possible Medicare fraud.

What choices are people making who have Medicare in Ohio?

Ohio may be known for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Cleveland Clinic, a leader in health research and education. As of 2020, more than 2.378 million Medicare beneficiaries resided in Ohio according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Here are additional facts about Medicare enrollment in Ohio.

• Beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare Original Medicare in Ohio:    1,268,377
• Ohio beneficiaries enrolled in a Medicare Advantage and other plans:    1,109,908
• Beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare Part D in Ohio: 1,917,424
• Ohio beneficiaries enrolled in a stand-alone Medicare Prescription Drug Plan: 1,022,521

Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Prescription Drug Plan sponsors must have contracts with Medicare in order to offer Medicare insurance plans (such as a Medicare HMO or a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan).

Depending on the terms of the contract between the plan and Medicare, not every plan is available statewide or in all service areas. Each year, the plan must renew their contract with Medicare, so the availability of a plan in a specific service area is subject to change as a result of the annual contract renewal.

Where can I get help with Medicare in Ohio?

Ohio Medicare Savings Programs: Ohio offers Medicare Savings Programs that help pay for Medicare premiums, coinsurance, and deductibles. Most people who qualify for assistance have limited income and resources.

Ohio State Health Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (SHIP): Ohio Senior Health Insurance Information Program (OSHIIP) offers one-on-one counseling, a speaker’s bureau, hotline experts, and trained volunteers. They help educate residents about Medicare and other health insurance matters. It is free resource that is funded in part by a grant from the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS).

Coverage choices among people with Medicare in Oklahoma

Here are some statistics about Medicare beneficiaries in Oklahoma as of August 2020 according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS):

• Total number of Medicare beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare:    751,324
• Number of Medicare beneficiaries enrolled in Original Medicare:    560,132
• Number of Medicare beneficiaries enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan or other plan:     191,192
• Oklahoma beneficiaries enrolled in a stand-alone Medicare Prescription Drug Plan:    346,289
• Oklahoma beneficiaries enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug plan:     516,511

Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance) make up Original Medicare, the government-sponsored health insurance program for qualified American citizens and legal permanent residents of at least five continuous years who are 65 or over. Some beneficiaries may qualify at any age by disability or having amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig’s disease) or end-stage renal disease.

You may have Medicare plan choices beyond Original Medicare, as explained below.

Original Medicare includes only limited prescription drug coverage, so if you would like coverage for your prescription medications, you can enroll in a stand-alone Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plan. These plans are available from private insurance companies approved by Medicare. You don’t have to enroll in Medicare prescription drug coverage, but if you sign up for it, you must be enrolled in Medicare Part A and/or Part B and live within the plan’s service area.

Another option you may have is to receive your Medicare benefits from a Medicare Advantage plan. Available from private, Medicare-approved insurance companies, Medicare Advantage plans cover your Medicare Part A and Part B benefits (except for hospice care, which Medicare still covers), and many plans may offer extra benefits such as routine dental care and prescription drug coverage. A Medicare Advantage prescription drug plan can provide all your Medicare coverage in a single plan. However, you must continue paying your Medicare Part B monthly premium, as well as any premium the Medicare Advantage plan may charge.

Please note that the Medicare plan options listed above may not all be available in your area of Oklahoma. You can enter your zip code here to search for plans.

Available Resources for Medicare in Oklahoma

Medicare Savings Programs in Oklahoma: You may qualify for one of Oklahoma’s Medicare Saving Programs. Usually, your income has to be under a limit that is set by the government each year. These programs may help pay for premiums, deductibles, and other out-of-pocket expenses. Medicare Savings Programs are administered through state Medicaid programs; to learn more and find out if you’re eligible for financial assistance, contact the Oklahoma Medicaid department.

Oklahoma State Health Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (SHIP): Oklahoma’s Medicare Assistance Program (SHIP) is a non-profit organization that informs the public about Medicare and other health insurance issues.

Useful facts if you have Medicare in Oregon

The Medicare program provides health coverage for eligible individuals who qualify by age (65 or older), disability, or have end-stage renal disease or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. You must be a U.S. citizen or have legally and permanently resided in the country for five continuous years.

Below is an overview of Medicare enrollment in Oregon as of August 2020 according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS):

• Oregon beneficiaries enrolled in Original Medicare:    465,889
• Oregon beneficiaries enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan or other plan:   419,213
• Total number of Oregon beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare:    885,102 
• Oregon beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare Part D:    674,212
• Oregon beneficiaries enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan that includes prescription drug benefits:    396,937
• Oregon beneficiaries enrolled in a stand-alone Medicare Prescription Drug Plan:    277,275

Whether you’re newly eligible for Medicare or currently a Medicare beneficiary in Oregon, you may be wondering about how Medicare works and your different coverage options.

You’ll have two options when it comes to how you receive your Medicare Part A and Part B coverage: Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) or a Medicare Advantage (Medicare Part C) plan. Original Medicare is the federal program that provides hospital and medical coverage to eligible beneficiaries. If you have Original Medicare and want prescription drug coverage (Medicare Part D), you can get it through a stand-alone Medicare Prescription Drug Plan that works alongside your Medicare Part A and/or Part B coverage.

Medicare Advantage plans are another way to get your Medicare Part A and Part B benefits. These plans cover at least the same level of benefits as Original Medicare, Part A and Part B, but may also cover extra benefits, such as hearing benefits, wellness programs, and prescription drugs. If you want prescription drug coverage, you can get it through a Medicare Advantage plan that includes this benefit, also known as a Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug plan.

Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Prescription Drug Plans are available through private insurance companies that are contracted with Medicare to offer Medicare insurance plans (such as a Medicare HMO or a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan). Depending on the terms of the contract between the Medicare plan and Medicare, not every plan is available statewide. Each year, the Medicare plan must renew its contract with Medicare, so plan availability in a specific service area may be subject to change.

Useful contacts if you have Medicare in Oregon

Oregon Medicare Savings Programs: Beneficiaries with limited income can apply for Medicare Savings Programs in Oregon that offer financial assistance for those who meet income eligibility requirements. These programs may help with Medicare costs like premiums, co-payments, coinsurance, and deductibles. For more information and to enroll, contact the Oregon Department of Human Services.

Oregon State Health Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (SHIP): The Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance (SHIBA) program in Oregon has a toll-free number you can call to get one-on-one health coverage counseling from a trained SHIBA volunteer in your area.

Do I have coverage options with Medicare in Rhode Island?

If you’re a Medicare beneficiary in Rhode Island, you have a couple different options when it comes to your Medicare coverage. You can enroll in Original Medicare, Part A and Part B, which is the federal health-care program for people who are 65 or older, certain younger disabled individuals, and people with end-stage renal disease or Lou Gehrig’s disease.

If you want prescription drug coverage (Medicare Part D), you can also enroll in a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan for help with medication costs. Medicare Prescription Drug Plans are available through private insurance companies that are approved by Medicare. You might also have the option to buy a Medicare Supplement insurance plan, which can help pay for out-of-pocket costs under Original Medicare.

Alternatively, you can get your Medicare Part A and Part B benefits through a Medicare Advantage plan, which is also available through private insurance companies that are contracted with the Medicare program. Medicare Advantage plans must cover at least the same level of benefits as Original Medicare; however, many plans may also cover additional benefits, such as hearing, wellness programs, or prescription drugs.

As mentioned, Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare prescription drug plans must have a contract with Medicare in order to offer Medicare insurance plans (such as a Medicare HMO or a Medicare prescription drug plan). Depending on the terms of the contract between the plan and Medicare, not every plan is available statewide or in all service areas. In addition, the private insurance company must renew its contract with Medicare on an annual basis, meaning that plan availability in a specific service area is subject to change. Because of this, it’s important to review your coverage on an annual basis and compare Medicare plan options in your location.

What coverage decisions are people with Medicare in Rhode Island making?

Below is information on Medicare enrollment in Rhode Island from 2020 according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS):

• Rhode Island beneficiaries with Original Medicare: 116,466
• Rhode Island beneficiaries with Medicare Advantage and other plans:    107,977
• Total number of beneficiaries enrolled in Original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage plan: 224,443
• Rhode Island beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare prescription drug coverage: 176,823

Where can I connect with advisors on Medicare in Rhode Island?

You can get personal counseling on benefits and potential cost savings of Medicare in Rhode Island from state resources listed below.

Rhode Island Medicare Savings Programs: If you’re a Rhode Island beneficiary with limited income, you may be eligible for help paying for Medicare premiums, co-payments, and other out-of-pocket costs. To qualify for a Medicare Savings Program, you must meet certain income and asset requirements. Find out if you’re eligible by contacting the Rhode Island Department of Human Services.

Rhode Island State Health Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (SHIP): Funded by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Rhode Island SHIP has volunteers that give one-to-one counseling to beneficiaries and their families. SHIP helps Rhode Island residents better understand their Medicare benefits and deal with health insurance issues.

Source: Statistical data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) “Medicare Enrollment Dashboard,” from the CMS Office of Enterprise Data & Analytics, August 2020.

Current enrollment trends: Medicare in South Carolina

As of August 2020, there are more than 1.1 million Medicare beneficiaries in South Carolina according the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Listed below is key enrollment information related to Medicare in South Carolina: 

• Number of South Carolina Medicare beneficiaries: 1,100,624
• Number of South Carolina residents with Medicare Part D coverage:     822,131
• Number of South Carolina residents enrolled in Medicare Advantage or other plans:    368,926
• South Carolina beneficiaries with a Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug plan: 343,321

Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Prescription Drug Plans are offered through private insurance companies that contract with Medicare to offer Medicare plans (which can include Medicare HMOs or Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plans). Depending on the terms of the contract between the plan and Medicare, not every plan is available statewide or in all service areas. Each year, the plan must renew their contract with Medicare, so the availability of a plan in a specific service area is subject to change as a result of the annual contract renewal.

Medicare resources and counseling in South Carolina

South Carolina Medicare Savings Programs: Certain South Carolina residents can save money each year through Medicare Savings Programs for people with limited income or resources. You may qualify for help paying for your Medicare premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance. Medicare Savings Programs are run through state Medicaid programs; to learn more, contact the South Carolina Medicaid department.

South Carolina State Health Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (SHIP): South Carolina and the United States government put together a program called the State Health Insurance Program (SHIP), also known in South Carolina as the Insurance Counseling Assistance and Referrals for Elders program (I-CARE). I-CARE has staff throughout the state that provides counseling on various Medicare topics.

*Source: Statistical data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) “Medicare Enrollment Dashboard,” from the CMS Office of Enterprise Data & Analytics, August 2020.

Facts about Medicare in South Dakota

The following is some information on Medicare enrollment in South Dakota as of August 2020:

• Number of South Dakota Medicare beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare Advantage or other plans: 17,583 
• Number of South Dakota beneficiaries who have Medicare prescription drug coverage:    127,604
• Total number of South Dakota beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare:   180,290 

Original Medicare is the government-sponsored health insurance program for American citizens and legal permanent residents of at least five continuous years who qualify by age or disability. You’re usually eligible when you turn 65 unless you qualify through disability or having certain health conditions. Original Medicare includes Part A, hospital insurance, and Part B, medical insurance. You might be automatically enrolled into the program when you turn 65 or receive disability benefits for a certain period of time.

You might have other Medicare plan options in South Dakota beyond Original Medicare. For example, if you decide to stay with Original Medicare, you can add a Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plan and a Medicare Supplement insurance (Medigap) plan, described below.

• Original Medicare doesn’t come with prescription drug coverage, except in limited situations. For example, Medicare may cover prescription drugs you receive as a hospital inpatient as part of your care, or certain drugs that are administered to you as a hospital outpatient. So if you want coverage to help pay for your daily prescription medications, you may want to consider a stand-alone Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plan. Available from private insurance companies approved by Medicare, Medicare Prescription Drug Plans work alongside your Original Medicare coverage.
• What about the out-of-pocket costs of Original Medicare? Some examples of these costs are co-payments, coinsurance, and deductibles. To help pay these expenses, you can apply for a Medicare Supplement insurance (Medigap) plan. Up to ten standardized Medigap plans are available in most states, including South Dakota.

Instead of getting your Medicare benefits through Original Medicare, you may have another choice: Medicare Advantage (Medicare Part C). Offered by private, Medicare-approved insurance companies, Medicare Advantage plans include the same benefits covered by Medicare Part A and Part B (except hospice care, which is still covered under Medicare). Many Medicare Advantage plans offer additional benefits, such as prescription drug coverage, routine dental care, or routine hearing care. You must continue paying your Medicare Part B premium, along with any premium the plan may charge.

Helpful contacts for Medicare in South Dakota

Medicare Savings Programs in South Dakota: Residents with limited income and resources who struggle to pay their health-care costs can apply for Medicare Savings Programs in South Dakota. These plans may help pay for some or all of your out-of-pocket health-care expenses if you qualify.

South Dakota State Health Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (SHIP): Senior Health Information and Insurance Education (SHIINE) is South Dakota’s free and unbiased information resource for beneficiaries. SHIINE can help you understand Medicare and your benefits, with offices and staff in various locations in South Dakota.

* Statistical data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) “Medicare Enrollment Dashboard,” from the CMS Office of Enterprise Data & Analytics, August 2020.

The product and service descriptions, if any, provided on The Medicare Resource Center pages are not intended to constitute offers to sell or solicitations in connection with any product or service. All products are not available in all areas and are subject to applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

Overview of Medicare in Tennessee

More than 1.38 million people in Tennessee have Medicare. Here are a few facts about Medicare enrollment in Tennessee in 2020, according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS):

• Medicare beneficiaries in Tennessee enrolled in Original Medicare:    790,476
• Medicare beneficiaries in Tennessee enrolled in Medicare Advantage and other plans:    590,202
• Medicare beneficiaries in Tennessee enrolled in standalone Medicare Prescription Drug Plans and Medicare Advantage plans with prescription drug coverage:    1,062,378
• Total number of Medicare beneficiaries in Tennessee: 1,380,678

Private insurance companies must have contracts with Medicare to offer Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare prescription drug plans. Depending on the terms of the contract between the plan and Medicare, not every plan is available statewide or in all service areas. Each year, the plan must renew its contract with Medicare, so the availability of a plan in a specific service area is subject to change.

Programs assisting people with Medicare in Tennessee

Tennessee Medicare Savings Programs: Low-income beneficiaries may qualify for savings programs in the state of Tennessee. These programs offer discounts on some of the health expenses that Medicare doesn’t cover.

Tennessee State Health Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (SHIP): The Tennessee State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) is a statewide program that provides free and objective assistance to beneficiaries with questions about Medicare. Tennessee SHIP is funded in part by a grant from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

Source: Statistical data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) “Medicare Enrollment Dashboard,” from the CMS Office of Enterprise Data & Analytics, August 2020.

Medicare in Texas: a quick snapshot

As of August 2020, more than 4.27 million Medicare beneficiaries live in Texas. To learn more about Medicare in Texas, here are some statistics:

• Total number of people with Medicare in Texas: 4,272,049
• Beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare Advantage or other plans in Texas:  1,838,507
• Beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare prescription drug coverage:    3,178,737  
• Texas beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare Advantage prescription drug plans:     1,524,222
• Texas beneficiaries enrolled in stand-alone Medicare prescription drug plans:    1,654,515

If you have Medicare in Texas, as in the rest of the country, you may have other ways to get your Medicare coverage. Medicare-approved private insurance companies may offer Medicare Advantage and stand-alone Medicare prescription drug plans. Keep in mind that availability may vary depending on location, and not every plan is available in every zip code.

Medicare in Texas: resources for residents

Texas Medicare Savings Programs: People with Medicare in Texas are sometimes overwhelmed by health-care costs. Programs offer special savings to beneficiaries whose income is under a certain limit.

Texas State Health Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (SHIP): Texas Health Information, Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP) is the Texas branch of SHIP. HICAP has several Area Agency on Aging offices where you can speak with benefits counselors who provide unbiased information and assistance and can act as advocates when necessary.

 Source: Statistical data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) “Medicare Enrollment Dashboard,” from the CMS Office of Enterprise Data & Analytics, August 2020.

Medicare in Utah: enrollment by the numbers

If you’re a resident with Medicare in Utah, you may have several options when it comes to your Medicare coverage. You can enroll in Original Medicare (Part A and Part B), which is the federally administered health-care program. If you have Original Medicare, you can also enroll in a stand-alone Medicare Prescription Drug Plan for help with prescription costs.

Or, alternatively, you can get Medicare in Utah through a Medicare Advantage plan, which offers the same level of coverage as Original Medicare, but may also cover extra benefits like routine vision or hearing, and prescription drugs.

Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Prescription Drug Plans are offered through Medicare-contracted private insurance companies. Because of this, not every Medicare plan in Utah is available statewide or in all service areas. It’s important to search for Medicare plan options for your specific county and zip code in Utah.

Below is statistical information on enrollment for Medicare in Utah in 2020, by the numbers*:

• People with Medicare in Utah enrolled in Original Medicare:    246,382
• Utah beneficiaries enrolled in a Medicare Advantage or other plans:     166,811
• Total number of Utah beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare:    413,193
• Residents with Medicare in Utah enrolled in prescription drug coverage under Medicare Part D: 299,818

Medicare in Utah: state resources

Utah Medicare Savings Programs: These programs help low-income Utah beneficiaries with out-of-pocket Medicare costs like premiums, deductibles, and co-payments. Your income and assets will need to meet a certain threshold to qualify. To learn more, contact the Utah Medicaid department, which administers these programs.

Utah State Health Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (SHIP): The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) created SHIP as a resource for Medicare beneficiaries in states like Utah. SHIP provides free, unbiased counseling that helps keep people informed about their Medicare and health coverage options. To look up the local SHIP office in your area, visit the Utah Aging and Adult Services website (scroll down).

*Source: Statistical data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) “Medicare Enrollment Dashboard,” from the CMS Office of Enterprise Data & Analytics, August 2020.

Medicare in Vermont: Here’s what people choose

Here’s a look at some enrollment statistics for Medicare in Vermont (as of 2020). As you can see, most Medicare beneficiaries in the state have prescription drug coverage.

• Number of beneficiaries with Medicare in Vermont: 151,195
• Number of people with Original Medicare in Vermont:  129,182
• Number of beneficiaries enrolled in stand-alone Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plans or Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug plans: 114,094
• Number of beneficiaries enrolled in stand-alone Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plans specifically:    94,391

When it comes to eligibility, Medicare in Vermont  works in the same way as the rest of the country. Original Medicare is the federal health insurance program for eligible American citizens and legal permanent residents of at least five continuous years who qualify by age or disability. Most people are eligible for Medicare when they turn 65, but you can also qualify at any age through disability or having end-stage renal disease or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig’s disease). Original Medicare is divided into two categories, or “parts:” Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance).

In Vermont and nationwide, many Medicare beneficiaries are enrolled in the program automatically. Most people pay a monthly premium for Medicare Part B, but many receive Part A for free. To get premium-free Medicare Part A, you must have worked at least 10 years (40 quarters) while paying Medicare taxes.

Original Medicare generally doesn’t cover the prescription medications you take at home, so if you want help paying for your prescriptions, you might want to look into Medicare prescription drug coverage.

There’s another way to get Medicare in Vermont. Like other states, you may be able to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan, which provides your Original Medicare benefits. The exception is hospice care, which is still covered under Medicare Part A instead of through a Medicare Advantage plan. Available from private insurance companies approved by Medicare, these plans often include other benefits as well, such as prescription drug coverage and fitness programs. When you’re enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you’re still in the Medicare program and must continue paying your monthly Medicare Part B premium.

Resources for Medicare in Vermont

Medicare Savings Programs in Vermont: Beneficiaries that live in Vermont and have an income that falls below a certain limit might qualify for programs that help cover medical bills. See the Vermont Agency of Human Services for more information.

Vermont State Health Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (SHIP): The Vermont State Health Insurance Assistance Program provides answers to questions and addresses concerns about Medicare-related issues.

 * Statistical data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) “Medicare Enrollment Dashboard,” from the CMS Office of Enterprise Data & Analytics, August 2020.

Medicare in Virginia: enrollment snapshot

Have you ever wondered how many Medicare beneficiaries live in Virginia? Here are some statistics on enrollment for Medicare in Virginia as of August 2020:

• Total number of people in Virginia enrolled in Medicare Advantage or other plans:    391,765
• Total number of people with Medicare in Virginia: 1,543,740
• Virginia beneficiaries with Medicare prescription drug coverage (Medicare Part D): 1,020,890
• Virginia beneficiaries with a Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug plan:  346,203
• Virginia beneficiaries with a stand-alone Medicare Prescription Drug Plan: 674,687

For the most part, Medicare in Virginia works in the same way as the rest of the country. Medicare Part A is hospital insurance, and Medicare Part B is medical insurance. Together, Part A and Part B make up Original Medicare, the government-sponsored health insurance program for American citizens and legal permanent residents of at least five continuous years who qualify by age or disability. Many beneficiaries are automatically enrolled into the program as soon as they’re eligible if they’re already receiving retirement benefits or have been receiving disability benefits for at least two years.

If you have Medicare in Virginia, you may have Medicare plan options to expand your coverage beyond Original Medicare. For example, you can get your Original Medicare benefits through a Medicare Advantage plan instead of directly through the government. Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private insurance companies that contract with Medicare. These plans must include Medicare Part A and Part B benefits (except hospice care, which Medicare still covers). Often, Medicare Advantage plans include other benefits as well, such as routine vision and dental services. Most of them also include prescription drug coverage. You still pay your Medicare Part B premium even if you’re enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan.

Medicare in Virginia: resources for residents 

Medicare Savings Programs in Virginia: Virginia residents who are enrolled in Medicare and have limited income and resources can apply for a Medicare Savings Program through the Department of Medical Assistance Services to get discounts on premiums, deductibles, and other health-care expenses.

Virginia Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (VICAP): In Virginia, this program is run by the state’s Division for the Aging. They provide unbiased information for beneficiaries on Medicare in Virginia at no cost.

Source: Statistical data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) “Medicare Enrollment Dashboard,” from the CMS Office of Enterprise Data & Analytics, August 2020.

Medicare in Washington: quick facts

Washington had over 1.39 million Medicare beneficiaries at the end of August 2020. Below is more information on Medicare in Washington from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

• Number of residents with Medicare in Washington: 1,398,832
• Number of people with Original Medicare in Washington:    885,062
• Number of Washington residents who get Medicare coverage through Medicare Advantage or other plans: 513,770
• Washington beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare Part D:    938,712

As a beneficiary with Medicare in Washington, you may have other options beyond Part A and Part B.

If you’re enrolled in Original Medicare, you could add a stand-alone Medicare prescription drug plan to pay for prescription drug costs.

Or, you might enroll in a Medicare Supplement plan for help with out-of-pocket expenses.

Another option is to enroll in Medicare Advantage plan, which gives you another way to get your Part A and Part B benefits. Some Medicare Advantage plans also cover extra benefits beyond Original Medicare, such as prescription drugs or wellness programs.

Keep in mind that, like the rest of the country, plan availability varies.

If you have Medicare in Washington, always look up plan options by zip code.

Medicare in Washington: state resources 

Washington Medicare Savings Programs: If you live in Washington and have an income that is below the Federal Poverty Limit annually set by the government, then you may qualify for a Medicare Savings Program that offers financial relief. To find out if you can get help with Medicare in Washington, contact your state’s Medicaid department.

Washington State Health Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (SHIP): Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA) provides free, unbiased health care coverage counseling to residents with Medicare in Washington. They can help you understand your health care options and Medicare rights.

 Source: Statistical data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) “Medicare Enrollment Dashboard,” from the CMS Office of Enterprise Data & Analytics, August 2020.

Medicare in the District of Columbia: current trends

Medicare provides health insurance coverage for people age 65 or older or those under age 65 with certain disabilities or conditions. To qualify for benefits, you must be an American citizen or legal permanent resident of at least five continuous years. Here are statistics from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) about enrollment in Medicare in the District of Columbia (in 2020):

• Total number of beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare in the District of Columbia:  over 94,000
• People with Original Medicare in the District of Columbia:  over 75,000
• Number of beneficiaries with Medicare prescription drug coverage: over 57,000
• Number of beneficiaries with Medicare Advantage plans (or other Medicare health plans): 1 over 19,000

Health-care reform and Medicare in the District of Columbia 

In 2010, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act took effect. It included the following changes to the Medicare program:

• Phasing out the coverage gap (“donut hole”) – Medicare beneficiaries who enter the Medicare Part D coverage gap now get additional savings on brand-name and generic drugs. Drug manufacturer discounts and government subsidies help reduce your prescription costs if you reach the coverage gap. The Affordable Care Act closed the “donut hole” completely as of 2020.
• Improved preventive care – Eliminates deductibles, co-payments, and other cost sharing for certain preventive services covered under Medicare Part B. This includes coverage of free annual wellness check-ups starting in 2011.

If you have Medicare in the District of Columbia and would like to expand your coverage, you have a few options. Medicare Prescription Drug Plans and Medicare Supplement plans work alongside Original Medicare. Or, as another option, you could enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan, which covers your Original Medicare benefits and may also include coverage like routine vision or dental, and prescription drugs. Please note that, as in the rest of the country, plan availability varies by location. So, if you have Medicare in the District of Columbia, find plans for your zip code and service area.

Medicare in the District of Columbia: resources for residents

Washington, D.C. seniors and those eligible for Medicare can also refer to the following resources for additional information on Medicare in the District of Columbia.

District of Columbia Qualified Medicare Beneficiary Program Qualified Washington, D.C. beneficiaries can save money on Medicare each year through savings programs for people with limited income or resources.

District of Columbia State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) This agency provides information to District of Columbia residents about Medicare, including assistance on understanding your Medicare rights/protections and how to submit an appeal or complaint about medical coverage or care.

Source: Statistical data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) “Medicare Enrollment Dashboard,” from the CMS Office of Enterprise Data & Analytics, August 2020.

Medicare in Wisconsin: current state trends

Here is enrollment information for those with Medicare in Wisconsin, based on 2020 data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

• Total number of people with Medicare in Wisconsin:    1,201,201
• Total number of people with Medicare in Wisconsin through Medicare Advantage or other plans: 558,629
• Total number of people with Original Medicare in Wisconsin:    642,572
• People with prescription drug coverage in Wisconsin:     896,187

What is Original Medicare in Wisconsin?

The federal Medicare program is called Original Medicare, which includes Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance). This is the health insurance program for eligible American citizens and legal residents aged 65 or over, or certain younger people who qualify through disability.

Medicare Part A and Part B both have annual deductibles you may need to pay before Medicare covers your medical services. They may also have co-payments and/or coinsurance amounts, depending on the service.

Each of these “parts” also has a monthly premium, but many people with Medicare in Wisconsin (like the rest of the country) don’t have to pay the Part A premium. If you’ve worked at least 10 years while paying Medicare taxes, you generally don’t have to pay a premium for Part A. But most people pay a Part B premium.

There are other Medicare coverage options as well.

Medicare in Wisconsin: Medicare Supplement plans 

If you have Medicare in Wisconsin, keep in mind that Part A and Part B do come with some costs, as mentioned above. If you have a lot of doctor visits, or you have health problems that may result in some hospital stays, you might want to look into Medicare Supplement insurance.

Basically, Medicare Supplement in Wisconsin (as in other states) may help pay for your Original Medicare, Part A and Part B, out-of-pocket costs. For example, some Medicare Supplement insurance plans in Wisconsin usually pay your coinsurance for doctor visits under Part B, and all standardized plans may pay your inpatient hospital costs for up to a year after your Part A coverage is used up. Please note that Medicare Supplement plans in Wisconsin are standardized differently than the rest of the country.

Medicare in Wisconsin: Medicare Advantage plans

There’s an alternative way to get your Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) benefits if you have Medicare in Wisconsin. Instead of getting them directly through the government, you may be able to sign up for a Medicare Advantage plan in Wisconsin. First, you need to enroll in Medicare Part A and Part B. Many people get enrolled in Part A and Part B automatically, without having to do anything.

You should do what’s best for your situation. Some people prefer Medicare Advantage plans because they usually include prescription drug coverage, and may offer other benefits as well. For example, some Medicare Advantage plans in Wisconsin may offer membership in fitness programs.

Some Medicare Advantage plans may have premiums as low as $0. Still, plans are likely to have coinsurance and/or co-payments, and may have annual deductible amounts you have to pay before the plan covers your medical services. You’ll also need to keep paying your Part B premium, regardless of whether your Medicare Advantage plan has a premium.

Medicare in Wisconsin: Medicare prescription drug coverage

Here’s another thing you might need to think about when it comes to Medicare coverage in Wisconsin. If you take medications – either now or in the future – you should know that Original Medicare won’t typically cover medications you take at home. Part A usually covers prescription drugs used to treat you as a hospital inpatient. Part B may cover prescription drugs given to you as an outpatient, but those are usually medications (such as infusions) that you wouldn’t give yourself.

Medicare Part D is prescription drug coverage – it’s optional, and if you want it, you need to sign up with a private, Medicare-approved insurance company. Be aware that if you don’t sign up for prescription drug coverage when you’re first eligible for it, you might have to pay a late enrollment penalty if you choose to sign up later on. There are two ways you can get coverage under Medicare Part D in Wisconsin.

• One way is through a Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug plan in Wisconsin, described above.
• The other way is through a stand-alone Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plan in Wisconsin.

 The product and service descriptions, if any, provided on The Medicare Resource Center pages are not intended to constitute offers to sell or solicitations in connection with any product or service. All products are not available in all areas and are subject to applicable laws, rules, and regulations.