Generally, Medicare eligibility begins when Americans turn 65. Though, under the right circumstances, Medicare will provide coverage to younger Americans. People under age 65 who have been diagnosed with a qualifying disability can receive Medicare benefits too.
With this in mind, it helps to know everything you can about Medicare Enrollment, especially if you live in Idaho. Wondering why? Then please continue reading.
Medicare Enrollment in Idaho: Plan Availability
Medicare enrollment is effectively the same across all of the U.S. Though, plan availability typically varies from one state to another. In some counties in Idaho, Original Medicare is the only option, while other areas have as many as 43. With sparse access to Medicare Advantage in rural areas, Original Medicare has become a dependable feature of many of these communities.
Though, for people who have special needs or a disability that would qualify them for Medicare, lack of access to Medicare Advantage plans can be problematic. In the counties where Advantage plans are not available, or only available at a high price, people may not be able to find plans that offer the additional benefits they need to comfortably fight their health conditions.
Fortunately, enrollment in Medicare Advantage plans is growing as more plans become available in these areas.
Medicare Advantage in Idaho
If you live in Elmore, Boise, Owyhee, Canyon, Ada, Gem, or Payette counties in Idaho, you should know that there are many areas that don’t have access to Medicare Advantage plans. This means people in these areas can’t get additional benefits, like dental and vision coverage, integrated Part D prescription drug coverage, or assistance with transportation and in-home safety. They also won’t have the choice to have an Advantage plan that manages and coordinates member’s care for them.
Enrolling in Medicare in Idaho
Medicare enrollment is effectively the same across all of the U.S. The enrollment periods for Idaho residents are as follows:
- Initial Enrollment Period – Begins 3 months before you turn 65 and ends 3 months after. The period is a total of 7 months. During this time, you can enroll in any Medicare plan you like.
- Annual Enrollment Period – This period runs from October 15th to December 7th. During this time, you can make changes to your coverage or enroll in a new Medicare plan. If you enroll during this time, your coverage will go into effect on January 1st.
- Special Enrollment Periods – These are unique enrollment periods that don’t fall into a specific part of the calendar year. Special Enrollment Periods are granted to eligible people that have recently faced qualifying life events.
Get Medicare in Idaho
It can be difficult to find Medicare coverage in Elmore, Boise, Owyhee, Canyon,
Ada, Gem, and Payette counties on your own. If you live in one of these counties, we can help you find the coverage you’re looking for. Don’t hesitate to give us a call today. We’d be glad to help you with a free consultation.
