icaregiver.org provides you with an opportunity to ask us your questions. We will do our best to respond to you personally. Your question may be addressed in our FAQ's, but rest assured, you or your loved one will not be identified.

Question: What is Medicare Part D?

Answer: Medicare Part D is the federal government’s newest Medicare benefit. This new coverage begins on January 1, 2006. While information is available now and educational sessions are taking place in communities across the country, enrollment begins on November 15th, 2005. AT this time, all Medicare beneficiaries should have received a Medicare & You 2006 handbook which explains in detail what prescription drug coverage means to you and which plans are available in your area.

Medicare operates a web site where you can find out the latest on the prescription drug benefit.

http://www.medicare.gov/medicarereform/drugbenefit.asp

You may also contact Medicare’s Partner Center at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/partnerships

Question: What does in-home therapy cost?

Answer: It depends on the region.

Question: What is Advance Care Planning? Answer:

Answer: Advance Care Planning (ACP) is the process of understanding current medical conditions, discussing options for future medical care, and reflecting on preferences for care and treatment at the end of life.  ACP involves having conversations with healthcare professionals, family, and friends about medical goals and wishes.

Question: How can I get assistance paying my Medicare premium on Ohio? Answer:

Answer:

Medicare Premium Assistance Program (MPAP)

This program helps people eligible for Medicare who have limited income and assets get help in paying the cost of one or more of the following:

  • Medicare premium(s)
  • Medicare deductibles
  • Medicare coinsurance  

Eligibility Criteria:

To qualify for MPAP, applicants must be eligible for Medicare and meet basic requirements, such as:

  • be a U.S. citizen or meet Medicaid citizen requirements 
  • be an Ohio resident;
  • have or get a social security number; and
  • meet certain financial requirements 

When applying for MPAP, proof of income, resources, age or disability, citizenship (if not a U.S. citizen) and other health insurance is required.

No face-to-face interview with the local county department of job and family services is necessary. Applicants can ask an authorized representative to apply on their behalf.

For more information, contact the Medicaid Consumer Hotline at
1 (800) 324-8680 (voice) 1 (800) 292-3572 (TTY)