My mom, 88 stubborn years old, still lives on her own in a big house with a cat that loves to get underfoot. Because I work in healthcare, I have an all-too-vivid recognition of the perils that can befall someone in her situation. So, posted on her kitchen bulletin board is a bright pink sheet of paper...

[HHS] – If you, a friend, or a loved one has Original Medicare and uses diabetes testing supplies, you should know that Medicare is continuing its National Mail-Order Program that helps you get quality supplies while saving money. This program includes all parts of the U.S., including the District...

It’s never too late to quit smoking. While it’s best to stop as early as possible, kicking the smoking habit at any age will enhance the length and quality of your life. As soon as you stop, your body begins to repair the damage caused by smoking. You’ll also save money and you won’t...

Are you looking for a nursing home for yourself or a loved one? People go to nursing homes for different reasons. They may be sick or hurt and require ongoing nursing care. They may have had surgery and need time to recuperate. Or they may have chronic care needs or disabilities that make long-term nursing...

[HHS] – If you, a friend, or loved one has Original Medicare and needs certain medical equipment and supplies, you should know that Medicare is continuing its successful competitive bidding program, which has been in place for many areas throughout the country since July 1, 2013. This program helps...

Have you recently enrolled in Medicare, or will you do so in the near future? If so, let me be the first to say, welcome! What should your first step be as a new Medicare beneficiary? I recommend taking advantage of the “Welcome to Medicare” preventive-care benefit. During the first 12 months that...

Choosing to enter hospice care can be a wrenching decision for yourself or a loved one. Hospice is intended to help terminally-ill people live out their lives as comfortably as possible. Hospice doesn’t focus on curing disease and it’s not only for people with cancer. Medicare’s hospice benefit...

Did you know Medicare helps pay for prescription medications? Even if you don’t take many prescriptions now, you should consider joining a Medicare drug plan. There are two ways to get Medicare prescription drug coverage: 1. Medicare standalone drug plans, also known as Part D plans, add drug coverage...

You’ve probably read a restaurant guide or review before going out for a special dinner. And you’ve probably scanned a consumer review or two before buying a new or used car. Wouldn’t it be great if there were a place where you could get information on the quality of hospitals in your area? Well,...

The biggest news in Medicare for 2016 is the Part B premium. I’m happy to report that for most people with Medicare, the premium will stay the same as it was in 2015: $104.90 per month. In fact, Part B premiums – which pay for doctor services, outpatient care, and preventive health benefits, among...