Montana has approximately 237,744 Medicare beneficiaries. Over 80% of those enrollees have Original Medicare. Let’s examine the advantages and drawbacks of Montana Medicare and available Supplemental plans.
Montana Medicare Facts & Figures
- About 185,893 have a Medicare Part A and B plan
- Among those, 163,675 aged into Medicare Part and B
- And 22,217 have Medicare Part A and B with disabilities
- Around 71,213 have Medicare Advantage plans
- In Montana, 151,555 have Medicare Part D
Medicare Costs in Montana for 2024
Original Medicare consists of Part A and Part B. Medicare Part A provides coverage for inpatient services such as hospital stay, skilled nursing facility, and hospice care. Medicare Part B offers outpatient services, including doctor visits, medical equipment, and preventative care.
| Medicare Part A Costs in 2023 | Medicare Part B Costs in 2023 |
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Original Medicare Coverage
People 65 or older can enroll in Medicare, and the coverage stays the same in all states. In Montana, 185,243 enrollees have Medicare Part A coverage, with 163,030 aged into the program. Medicare Part B has 168,342 enrollees with 148,646 aged-in.
Medicare Part A (Hospital Coverage)
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Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance)
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Supplemental Medicare Plans in Montana
Montana Medicare beneficiaries can choose to add a supplemental Medicare plan for additional health insurance. Medicare beneficiaries can enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C), Part D plan, or a Medigap plan.
Medigap
Medigap, or Medicare Supplement, plans pay for out-of-pocket costs not covered by Original Medicare. Since the government standardizes Medigap plans, benefits remain the same regardless of where you live or what carrier you enroll with; however, premiums and plan costs will vary depending on different factors.
Medicare Advantage
Medicare beneficiaries can also switch to Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans, which provide an alternate way to get Original Medicare benefits and coverage. After you join a Medicare Advantage plan, you will receive Medicare benefits from the private insurance carrier rather than the government. Some Medicare Advantage plans include prescription drug coverage and other benefits such as dental, vision, and hearing coverage.
Unlike Original Medicare Part A and B and Medigap plans, Medicare Advantage plan benefits depend on where you live. Medicare Advantage plan availability varies with each ZIP code and carrier.
Part D
Unlike Medicare Advantage plans, Medigap does not provide coverage for Part D. Medicare beneficiaries that need regular and frequent medications can enroll in standalone Part D plans. These plans provide coverage for most prescription drugs taken by Medicare beneficiaries.
The costs for Medigap, Medicare Advantage or Medicare Part D plans depend on the beneficiary’s location and type of plan. It is essential to take the time to review your options before deciding on a plan and carrier.
Estimated Premiums for Supplemental Coverage for Montana Cities
Estimated premiums for each type of supplemental coverage for the cities listed below can be accessed via the accompanying charts linked below:
Montana Medicare Resources
Medicare beneficiaries in Montana have access to many different resources to help them through their enrollment process. The State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) can help individuals navigate and understand the complex Medicare system. SHIP can educate families and loved ones on Medicare rights, benefits, and enrollment procedures.
Medicaid is a state program that provides healthcare for low-income individuals. The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) exists to serve the public and improve their health and well-being. The DPHHS can explain Medicaid benefits, member rights and responsibilities, and how to select a primary care provider.
In addition, the Office of the Montana State Auditor, Commissioner of Securities and Insurance (CSI), protects consumers by ensuring fairness and transparency in all insurance matters. The CSI has written a handbook to help individuals understand the Montana Medicare system.
If you plan on enrolling in a Medicare Supplement plan, we can help. We can help you narrow your options and find the best plan for your unique needs and budget.
FAQs
Does Montana have Medicare?
Yes, residents in Montana can enroll in Medicare after turning 65. In certain cases, disabled individuals can join Medicare before the age limit. Medicare beneficiaries can also choose Medicare Advantage or Medicare Supplement plans after enrolling in Part A and B.
What are the 4 types of Medicare in Montana?
In Montana, beneficiaries can sign up for Medicare Part A, B, C, and D. Part A covers hospital costs, while Part B covers outpatient costs.
Part C refers to Medicare Advantage plans, which often offer additional coverage and benefits. Medicare Part D is your prescription drug coverage, which you can receive through a special Medicare Advantage plan or a stand-alone plan.
What is the difference between Medicare A and B in Montana?
Medicare Part A provides coverage for hospital insurance and Part B for medical insurance. Part A will pay for hospital stay and rehabilitation services. In contrast, Part B provides pneumococcal vaccines, screening tests, and mental health care coverage.
Additionally, Medicare Part A is generally premium-free, while beneficiaries must pay a monthly premium and deductible for Part B.
Can you call Medicare 24 hours a day in Montana?
Yes, Medicare provides 24/7 toll-free phone support. Beneficiaries can call to get more information on Medicare, make or file an appeal, or request a list of Medicare-approved doctors. Phone operators can only help with claims and appeals for Original Medicare.
Do you automatically get Medicare with Social Security in Montana?
If you receive Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) benefits, you will have automatic enrollment for Medicare Parts A and B.
Enrollment takes place on the first day of the month that you turn 65. If you have a chronic disease such as End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or ALS, you automatically enroll in Medicare the same month your disability benefits begin.
How to Sign Up for Supplemental Medicare in Montana
Medicare provides decent health care benefits but does not cover all medical costs. Supplemental Medicare plans can boost your coverage and help you save money while receiving additional benefits. It’s crucial to pick a plan that matches your health and financial needs.
We can help you find the best Montana supplemental Medicare plan by comparing policies from different insurance carriers. Our agents can answer all your Medicare questions and concerns.
Call us today or fill out our online rate form to be connected with the best rates in your part of Montana.
