Guide to Medicare Options for Residents in Chicago

Comprehensive Overview of Medicare Plans in Chicago

Essential Information About Medicare in Chicago

Chicago, Illinois, is a sprawling city with a large senior population requiring quality healthcare services. Medicare is a key program serving this demographic, with an average beneficiary age of around 73. Over 700,000 residents in Chicago are eligible for Medicare coverage. Although primarily accessible to those over 65, Medicare also supports younger individuals with disabilities and patients with End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD).

Here are common questions about Medicare plans in Chicago and their answers.

What should residents know about Medicare in Chicago?
Medicare is organized into four sections, each addressing specific healthcare needs:

Part A: Covers hospital stays, hospice care, skilled nursing facilities, and certain home health services. Often called hospital insurance, it manages inpatient care and related expenses. It also provides coverage for extended nursing services.

Part B: Known as medical insurance, it covers outpatient visits, doctor consultations, preventive care, and medical supplies. It helps offset costs for regular check-ups and treatments for common illnesses, making healthcare more accessible.

Part C: The Medicare Advantage Plan partners with private companies to cover costs from Parts A and B. It may include additional services for rare or complex conditions not covered by original Medicare, such as specialized needs.

Part D: This prescription drug plan provides coverage for medications. It’s especially beneficial for individuals on long-term medication regimens due to chronic illnesses.

Key facts about Medicare in Chicago

The expenses for Medicare in 2014 reached approximately $5.7 billion.

13% of costs are allocated for outpatient care and 37% for inpatient services.

In Cook County, where Chicago is located, over 690,000 beneficiaries receive coverage through Parts A and B, with an average investment of about $9,692 per person—which is slightly above the national average.

Hypertension is the leading cause behind Medicare-related costs in the region.

What is SHIP?

SHIP stands for Senior Health Insurance Program, offering counseling services to Medicare recipients and their families.

Operated by the Illinois Department on Aging (IDA), the program provides resources and guidance to Chicago residents with Medicare.

It’s important to note that SHIP is not an insurance provider; it offers informational support.

Trained counselors are available to assist with questions and planning.

How to reach SHIP

You can send correspondence to the Illinois Department on Aging, Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP).

Contact their official phone numbers for direct assistance.

Visit their website or email for additional details and support.