4.1 million Americans will turn 65 this year out of 337 million in the US.
Every week I’m asked about Medicare and what plan to choose.
Until I found author of the book Get What’s Yours for Medicare, Phillip Moeller, I wasn’t entirely sure what to tell my clients.
Naturopathic doctors are not covered by Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans are deceiving when it comes to alternative care plans.
Acupuncture is only covered for low back pain and the acupuncturist has to contract with Medicare to provide this service.
I was denied when I applied for this coverage back in 2020 because the government couldn’t distinguish a doctor who’s licensed with both a naturopathic medicine and an acupuncture license.
So I was labeled as an ND only and I couldn’t get anyone to understand when I tried to get it sorted out.
This is why I advise all clients of mine to not pay for Medicare Advantage plans promising coverage for acupuncture unless you’ve made sure your provider is indeed listed in their system.
Another misconception by the public is that naturopathic doctors do not accept Medicare – this is false.
Naturopathic doctors are not allowed into the Medicare coverage system at this time.
Despite doctor shortages and an increasing group of naturopathic doctors who have been trained as primary care providers – there’s been no movement on that front.
If you have a naturopathic doctor who is your primary care doctor and you want to continue with the naturopathic doctor then you will have to get a Medicare contracted doctor or nurse practitioner to order labs, do your referrals and submit any pre-authorizations for your care.
I’ve teamed up with a nurse practitioner in my area to help cover this need to continue to provide quality care for my clients.
I know a lot of naturopath’s who’ve done this as well.
If you’re in your 30’s and 40’s you may be thinking…will there even be Medicare by the time 65 rolls around?
Great question, I’ve thought about that myself.
The key take-a-way – it’s never too late to educate yourself on what Medicare offers at this time and how you may want to start saving for your healthcare needs, especially if you want to use alternative or functional medicine providers.
Some clients of mine have noted that they didn’t even want to sign up for Medicare.
After talking with Phillip Moeller I’ve learned there’s a penalty that can be incurred for late enrollment into Medicare.
Use code DRJ10 for 10% off
Either way you look at it – it’s wise to sign up to make sure you have at least the very minimum benefits you paid into receiving all the years you worked.
One thing for sure is – Medicare, Medigap and Medicare Advantage Plans are confusing.
Phillip’s book as well as the free version of his “Aging in America” blog are great resources to help end the confusion.
In episode 514 of The Health Fix Podcast, Phillip shares a ton of information to help you start thinking about what to choose when it comes to your benefits. (listen in HERE)
Here’s what we cover…
- Understanding Medicare Benefits: A breakdown of what Medicare actually provides and how it supports healthcare needs.
- Choosing the Right Plan: Key health conditions to consider when deciding between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans.
- Medigap vs. Medicare Advantage Plans: Insights on how Medigap policies differ from Medicare Advantage plans, and when each might be a good choice.
- ACO Medical Groups: Why Accountable Care Organizations (ACO) provide a holistic approach for Medicare clients.
- Maximizing Medicare Benefits: How being proactive and asking the right questions can help you get the most from your Medicare benefits.
I believe our podcast combined with his book –Get What’s Yours for Medicare and even the free version of his blog “Aging in America” are three great resources to help end the Medicare confusion.
Even if you’re a few years out from Medicare age – it’s wise to plan ahead.
Especially if you’re interested in having alternative or functional medicine be a part of your care for life.
I learned a lot from my conversation with Phillip and I’m working through reading his book.
Medicare open enrollment ends on December 15th.
From now until then you can change or adjust your plans.
If you’re looking for 1:1 help in your state consider using the SHIP program – State Health Insurance assistance Program, where trained volunteers can provide specific support based on programs in your state.
Phillip even offered up his own email for anyone who has questions – hit him up and tell him I sent you –moeller.philip@gmail.com
Here’s to informed health decisions,
Dr. Jannine Krause
Our Partners
