5 Tips For Using Your MyMedicare.gov Account

Technology makes it easy to do almost anything nowadays. Medicare is no exception. Medicare.gov is an online resource that makes managing your health care information easier than ever.

We recommend everyone to get a MyMedicare.gov account when they sign up for Medicare. It is a useful resource with several things you can use to improve your Medicare experience.  

Today, we’re going to look at five popular tips to help you get the most out of your Medicare account.  

Tip #1: The Blue Button feature

The Blue Button feature is one of the most popular features on MyMedicare.gov and for good reason.

It allows you to download and share your personal health information, including your Medicare plan information, with your health care providers quickly and securely. It’s easy to fill out and useful for you and your physicians.  

Tip #2: Check your Medicare plan enrollment information

You can use your MyMedicare account to check your Medicare enrollment information and your application status.  

You can view your basic information in the “My information” section of the website homepage. This is where you’ll find information about your current plan and when your coverage starts or started. If you have coverage, but no card yet, you can print out a temporary Medicare card by clicking the “print my Medicare card” link.  

You can also click on the “My plans & coverage” section to get more detailed information about your plans. You can also find drug plan information here and print a temporary prescription drug card while you’re waiting for yours to come in the mail.

Tip #3: Create an on-the-go report, especially when you plan to travel

You can have a report of your provider information, medical history and prescription information online for easy printing.

This is especially great if you plan to do any traveling. Ensure you have your medical information with you in case of an emergency.

Another thing worth noting is that Medicare can’t share medical information with anyone unless you give permission.

You can give Medicare permission to speak with someone you trust by filling out the authorization form in your account. Giving permission to a spouse, family member or caregiver will allow them to assist with billing and claims if you require assistance. You can fill out the authorization form in your account.  

Tip #4: View your Part B deductible balance for the year

Medicare Part B covers medical care at doctors’ offices. Keeping track of your deductible balance can help you figure out what you still have and help you figure out when to visit your primary care physician.

Part B also covers vaccinations and preventive screenings. MyMedicare.gov allows you to keep track of them and make sure you are getting the preventive care you need when you need it. You can track vaccines and preventive screens for two years online.

Knowing when to do screenings can alert you to medical issues and help you prevent complications.  

Tip #5: Don’t wait on snail mail — check your Medicare claim status as soon as they’re processed

One of the easiest ways to make use of MyMedicare.gov is to go paperless and use this feature to get your information electronically. Going paperless can help you manage your information easily and keep track of claims.

In most cases, you won’t have to file claims to get expenses covered with Original Medicare. Providers are required to do that. Although, there are some cases where providers may take a long time to file claims. If they file more than 12 months after services were provided, Medicare can’t pay.

Keeping an eye on claims can help you know if any claim deadlines are coming up and when claims have been submitted.  

Bonus tip: Contact an insurance agent to make sure you’re getting the most out of your coverage

One of the best things you can do for your Medicare coverage is to talk to an insurance agent to make sure your coverage is meeting your needs. There are a lot of Medicare options, and it can be a lot to navigate alone. That’s why we’re here to help.

Give us a shout and we’ll help you review your Medicare needs and options.  

Conclusion

MyMedicare.gov is a great resource to help you get the most out of your Medicare coverage. Following these simple tips can help you improve your coverage and get even more from your Medicare plan.

Everyone who uses Medicare should take advantage of MyMedicare.gov, and we encourage you to make your own account today.