Frequently Asked Questions
If you’ve got Medicare questions, you’re not alone. We receive queries from people all over the area. People just like you who want to make the best, most informed decisions possible. Here are just some of the most commonly asked questions and our expert answers.
Do I give up Medicare by joining SummaCare Secure?
Absolutely not. You keep your Medicare card. It’s just that we administer the benefits and offer you additional benefits as well. So, you’ll use a SummaCare identification card when you visit your physician or require treatment. But keep your Medicare card in case you cancel your SummaCare membership
What if I move out of the area?
Our contract with Medicare allows us to serve you only as long as you live in Ashtabula, Carroll, Columbiana, Cuyahoga, Erie, Geauga, Huron, Lake, Lorain, Mahoning, Medina, Portage, Sandusky, Stark, Summit, Trumbull, Tuscarawas or Wayne counties. If you move away from this area, or leave for more than six consecutive months, you must tell us in writing so we can disenroll you. At that point, you become covered under original Medicare.
Can I change my Primary Care Physician?
Yes, at any time. Call a Customer Service representative so we can help you change physicians and make the change to your records. Usually this change will be effective within 14 days from the time you call. We will notify you when this change is effective and you will receive a new SummaCare identification card with your new Primary Care Physician’s information included.
When can I apply for coverage?
If you are turning 65, you can apply for coverage beginning 3 months before your 65th birthday, the month of your 65th birthday and 3 months after your 65th birthday. If you are disabled, you can contact us for more information.
You may also be eligible to apply if you meet criteria for a Special Enrollment Period for individuals who, for example, have recently moved to our service area or recently qualify for Medicare. Click here to learn more about qualifications for Special Enrollment Periods.
The Medicare Advantage Disenrollment Period (MADP) runs from January 1 - February 14 each year. During the MADP a Medicare beneficiary can only disenroll from a Medicare Advantage plan and enroll in Original Medicare and select a Prescription Drug Plan if they choose.
If you are already eligible for Medicare, the Open Enrollment Period to select a plan for 2012 will take place from October 15 to December 7, 2011.
What if I already belong to another Medicare Advantage Plan?
If you choose to enroll in SummaCare Secure, your coverage from your current Medicare Advantage Plan will automatically be terminated. You can only belong to one Medicare Advantage Plan at a time. Keep in mind that there are only certain times during the year when you can change plans.
What if I just want to go back to original Medicare?
You may switch back to Original Medicare during the Medicare Annual Disenrollment Period (MADP), which runs from January 1 - February 14, 2011. After February 14, 2011, in most cases, you will have to wait until the Medicare Annual Election Period (AEP), which runs October 15 - December 7, 2011 to make this switch.
Will you disenroll me if I get sick?
No. We will be there for you whether you’re healthy or sick. We will not disenroll you due to illness, no matter how severe.
Do I still pay my Medicare Part B premium?
Yes, you must continue to pay your Part B premium, which is normally deducted from your Social Security check.