HMO Guide for Seniors - Office of the Patient Advocate - State of ...

7
Questions & Answers
How do I know if I am in a
Medicare Advantage HMO?
Ask your HMO, union, or
former employer. If you are
not in a Medicare HMO,
many of the rules in this
book do not apply.
Where can I learn more
about Medicare HMOs?
Call HICAP. Or visit www.
cahealthadvocates.org
There’s a lot of paperwork
for Original Medicare.
Is that true if I am in a
Medicare HMO?
No. You usually don’t
have much paperwork if
you are in an HMO.
things you can do
Free Help with Medicare HMOs
Call your HMO. All HMOs have a member or
customer service phone number. The number is
on your membership card.
Call HICAP for information and counseling on
Medicare.
Joining a Medicare HMO
You can join a Medicare HMO when you first get
Medicare at age 65. For other times you can join,
see page 10.
Fill out an enrollment form for the plan you want
to join. To get a form, call the plan, look on its
website, or call 1-800-Medicare.
You do not need a Medigap plan if you are in a
Medicare HMO. And you cannot enroll in a
separate Part D prescription drug plan. Most
Medicare HMOs include drug coverage.
where to find help
1-800-Medicare
Information and help with Medicare
1-800-633-4227 www.medicare.gov
California Health Advocates
Information on Medicare
www.cahealthadvocates.org
HICAP (Health Insurance Counseling & Advocacy)
Free counseling and information on Medicare
1-800-434-0222 www.aging.ca.gov/hicap