Timing is everything and, if you are a Medicare beneficiary, now is the time to consider making any changes to your coverage for 2023 as the Medicare Open Enrollment period begins Oct. 15 and runs through Dec. 7. This is the only time in the year you can make changes to your Medicare coverage.

Did you know there are programs to assist with Medicare premiums? All Medicare beneficiaries pay a monthly premium for Part B (usually $170.10/month) that is deducted from their Social Security. A senior with an annual income of less than $19,000 may qualify for a Medicare Savings Program and have their monthly premiums paid for leaving them with more disposable income each month.

The State of California has also expanded coverage for Medi-Cal. Medi-Cal is the state’s version of Medicaid (health insurance for low-income Americans). The age of eligibility has been lowered from 65 to 50 and immigration status will no longer be considered. Additionally, the asset limit allowed for Medi-Cal eligibility has been increased from $2,000 to $130,000 per individual. Previous eligibility rules required seniors to “spend down” most of their savings and other assets. This is no longer required and by 2024 the asset limit will be eliminated entirely. But bear in mind that monthly income is limited to $1,564 for a single applicant.

Medi-Cal is not a replacement for Medicare but can act as supplemental insurance and pay for non-covered services such as: dental and vision care, hearing aids, in-home care and transportation. Sometimes Medicare Advantage plans include coverage for these services, but it can be limited or require higher monthly premiums.

Health care insurance can be complicated and overwhelming, but help is available. The Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP) is a free service for all over 65. HICAP counselors are trained in Medicare and Medi-Cal and can help you understand your options to find the best type of coverage. The HICAP provider in Los Angeles County is the Center for Health Care Rights and can be reached at (800) 824-0780 or through its website www.healthcarerights.org. The American Council on Aging also has a free service through its website that assists seniors in determining if they qualify for Medicaid: www.medicaidplanningassistance.org.

Those who would like more information or assistance can contact us at the Community Resource Center for Aging at USC Verdugo Hills Hospital at (818) 949-4033 or send an email to aging-resources@med.usc.edu. As always, our services are free.