Page 38 - May 2020 Web.indd

Senior Spot beneficiary tests positive during an unrelated inpatient hospital

stay and is required to stay in the hospital under quarantine,
Medicare covers this as a medically necessary hospitalization.
(https://www.medicare.gov/medicare-coronavirus)

Medicare.Gov states that E-visits can be used for treatment for
Senior Moments COVID-19 and allow you to talk to your doctor without going

to the doctor’s office. Virtual Check-ins are brief connections

by Mary Moran 410-479-2535 made by phone, video, or through online patient portals. Th e
patient portals are simple to set up, can be used for more
than a check-in in rural areas, and may be a good option for
Despite the ongoing national and international health crisis, those who are homebound. These telehealth options provide

nature goes on and Spring has thankfully sprung in Caroline! communication between you and your practitioner without you

It’s such a gift to see nature’s splendid colors, the leaves returning physically going to the office. If you are experiencing possibly

to the trees, and our fields looking good! At this point nothing contagious symptoms this is an option to be considered
smells better than fresh air and freshly cut grass! so others are not exposed to your illness. To be covered by
Medicare this check-in service must not be related to a medical
Like so many workers, I have moved my office to my dining

visit one has had within seven prior days. It also cannot be
room and am working remotely. Please know we are still open
used to make an appointment during the next 24 hours. Your
for business and the MAP/ SHIP/SMP contact number is now
doctor will record your verbal consent to this communication.
410-490-3078. We are still here to serve your needs and I’m
Remember that you will pay the usual 20% co-insurance and
still doing my “thing” daily so give me a call if you require
deductibles for this type of check-in. Contact your doctor’s
information or assistance!

office to see if they are providing telemedicine options.
Since we are all surrounded by information overload about the
For those who are eligible for, or are currently participating in
pandemic, I’m going to briefly address the fact that Medicare

Medicare, here’s the refresher for 2020 premiums, coinsurances
covers the cost of physician ordered lab tests for Coronavirus
and deductibles for A&B. It’s a lot of information but this is
(COVID-19) with no cost to the beneficiary. Also, if a
information my readers need to have moving forward into

2020. The numbers reflect important increases in out of pocket

costs that beneficiaries must be prepared for. Th ere’s something
for everyone, so jump in!
Senior Homecare by Angels

Bathing Assistance • Dressing Assistance • Grooming
Assistance with Walking • Medication Reminders Medicare includes Part A, referred to as “Hospital” on your
red, white and blue card, which covers Inpatient care, skilled
Errands • Shopping • Light Housekeeping
nursing care, Hospice care, and some medical supplies. If
Meal Preparation • Friendly Companionship
one has worked 40 quarters (10 years) of Medicare covered
Flexible Hourly Care • Respite Care for Families
employment, meaning you paid Medicare taxes from your pay
check or self-employment, or are the non- working spouse or
The Most Recognized and Respected Name in Senior Home Care
dependent child of someone who has met that criteria, part
“A” is generally premium free. For those who worked 30-39
America’s Choice in Homecare
quarters of Medicare taxed employment there is a premium
of $252 per month for “A”. For those who worked less than 30
quarters the premium cost for “A” is $458 per month.
Additionally, in 2020 there is a hospital deductible of $1,408
for each benefit period. A benefit period begins the day one is

admitted as an impatient and ends when you haven’t received

inpatient care for 60 days in a row. If a beneficiary enters a

hospital or skilled nursing facility after a benefit period ends, a

We’re here for YOU! new benefit period begins, and the patient is liable for another

Available 24 hours a day,

deductible of $1408. There is no limit to the amount of benefi t
7 days a week
periods nor is there any kind of cap on the deductible paid per
year. This is reason #1 to purchase supplemental insurance.

2

Patient Copays are a fixed amount depending on one’s length of
Locations
stay and the facility you are in. If a patient is in a skilled nursing
221 Glenwood Ave, Easton • 443-746-0494 facility for more than 20 consecutive days, the copay is $176
1
2
G
2
106B Williamsport Circle, Salisbury • 443-210-2007 per day for days 21-100. If the benefi ciary is in a hospital for
visitingangels.com/mideasternshore more than 60 days, the copay for day 61-90 is $352 per day.

This is reason #2 to buy supplemental insurance.
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