Ask Medicare For Advice
Medicare has a new online service intended for caregivers. The website, Ask Medicare, is a resource for those who care for loved ones, friends and neighbors, providing information to assist in making educated healthcare decisions.
The purpose of the website is to raise awareness of the services provided by caregivers nationwide and improve their lives and those that they help. Currently there are an estimated 44 million adults in the U.S. – or one out every five – who provide unpaid care valued at over $350 billion each year, nearly twice the amount spent on nursing homes and homecare services combined.
The online service allows caregivers to browse topics such as: Medicare basics, planning for a healthy future, seeking a second opinion, help with hospitalization, choosing a nursing home, and considering hospice. Visitors can search for doctors, find a prescription drug care plan, connect to other informational websites, and learn about financial assistance in the event that they are having trouble paying for insurance or prescriptions.
Most people don’t consider themselves caregivers, yet fall under this category if they do as little as buy groceries, pick up prescriptions, or look after an aging or sick parent. Unfortunately caring for others often takes a toll on an individual’s own health, which is something Ask Medicare hopes to alleviate.
The website is designed for a full range of caregivers, and not only those who take care of someone with Medicare. It’s directed to parents who care for disabled children, spouses who care for their husbands or wives, children who support their aging parents, as well as friends, neighbors and community volunteers. In addition to the online services, the website also sends a bi-monthly newsletter via email regarding the latest changes and up-to-date news on Medicare and features personal stories from caregivers who wish to share their experiences with others.
To learn more about Ask Medicare and how you can help your loved ones and friends, please visit: www.medicare.gov/Caregivers.
