Has the time come for you to apply for Medicare in New Jersey? You’ll be happy to know that Medicare is good insurance and the majority of people are happy with it. But it’s important to have a thorough understanding of Medicare coverage to know what health care services are covered—and which ones aren’t—before making a final decision on your plan.
Medicare Coverage in New Jersey: What You Should Know
To understand the scope of coverage options, you’ll need to know the different parts of Medicare:
- Part A provides basic hospitalization coverage.
- Part B covers outpatient care like doctors’ visits and diagnostic testing.
- Part C (Medicare Advantage) is a private option that combines Part A and B and offers additional benefits.
- Part D is prescription drug coverage.
Medicare supplement plans (Medigap) is private insurance that helps cover out-of-pocket costs like copays, coinsurance, and deductibles.
Medicare Part A
Medicare Part A covers hospital costs when you’re formally admitted with a doctor’s order. The insurance pays for wheelchairs and walkers, hospice care, some home health care services, blood transfusions, and limited coverage for skilled nursing.
Medicare Part B
Medicare Part B covers doctor visits and preventive health care like yearly screenings and exams. Some of the tests and services covered are:
- Cancer and mental health screenings
- Ambulance and emergency department services
- Vaccinations for flu and hepatitis
- Medical equipment and diabetes supplies
Medicare Part C
Also called Medicare Advantage, this private option provides the benefits of Part A and Part B, as well as extra benefits like dental, hearing, vision and prescription drug coverage. You’ll pay a premium for this plan through an insurance company and only be allowed to see the doctors in your network.
Medicare Part D
Medicare Part D covers prescription drugs. This plan is optional, but we highly recommend it because you could face late enrollment penalties later on.
What Doesn’t Medicare Cover?
While Medicare supports a wide range of services, there are some things it doesn’t provide coverage for such as:
- Hearing aids
- Most dental care, including dentures
- Routine vision and foot care
- Long-term or custodial care
- Acupuncture
- Cosmetic surgeries
- Medical care overseas
