Medicare HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) plans and Medicare PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) plans differ mainly in the rules each has about using the plan’s provider network. In general, Medicare PPOs give plan members more leeway to see providers outside the network than Medicare HMOs do.

The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period is when Medicare Advantage plan members can change plans. It runs from January 1 to March 31.

Do you have a Medicare Advantage plan? If you do, then you need to know about the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period. It runs from January 1 – March 31.

Medicare covers a device called an ambulatory blood pressure monitor for use once a year when ordered by a doctor. It does not cover regular “cuff” blood pressure monitors except for people undergoing dialysis at home.

You may file an appeal if you disagree with a coverage or payment decision made by Medicare or by your Medicare health or prescription drug plan. You may appeal  if you receive a denial any of the following:

Your Medicare plan automatically renews at the beginning of each year unless you change it, but you might not get exactly the same benefits. Insurance companies review and refine their Medicare plan benefits annually.

Your Medicare Wellness Visit, also called a wellness exam, is when you and your doctor put your undivided attention on your health. You’re not there because you’re sick or in pain or needing a prescription. And your doctor is not there to diagnose or treat a health problem.

Medicare Part B generally covers a screening blood test for cholesterol once every five years. You pay nothing for the test if your doctor accepts Medicare assignment and takes Medicare’s payment as payment in full.

Original Medicare (Parts A & B) may cover medically necessary care on a cruise ship, if the ship you’re on when you receive the care is in U.S. waters. That means the ship needs to be within six hours of a U.S. port. Also, the doctor must be legally allowed to provide medical services on a cruise ship.