As you approach age 65, there are several healthcare options to consider. No single solution is right for every person.
Should I remain on Windstream’s medical plan or move to Medicare?
You can enroll in one or more parts of Medicare up to 3 months prior to turning age 65. Part A provides hospital coverage and is generally offered to you at no cost. Many people sign up for Medicare Part A while keeping Windstream’s medical coverage.
While you are actively employed, Windstream’s plan is the primary coverage/payer according to universal coordination of benefit rules. If you enroll in Windstream’s Medical plan, Windstream would process the claim first and then it would be sent to Medicare.
If you enroll in any part of Medicare, you and/or Windstream are no longer permitted to contribute to a Health Savings Account. Please contact Mercer at 866-553-9409 if you enroll in Medicare and are no longer eligible for a Health Savings Account. If you enroll in Part A at age 65, coverage begins the month in which you turn 65. If you enroll in Part A after turning 65, coverage begins six months before you enroll. For full details, please see https://www.medicare.gov/Pubs/pdf/10050-Medicare-and-You.pdf
If you have a spouse and/or child(ren) who are under age 65 and are on Windstream’s medical plan, please note that YOU must continue participation in Windstream’s plan (via enrollment each year) or your dependents will not be eligible to participate.
Are there options to consider in addition to Medicare?
There is a robust marketplace of products that supplement Medicare. They are generally called Medicare Supplement and MediGap plans. There are also pharmacy plans. You can shop through Mercer’s Retiree Exchange at 855-698-1568 or directly with any of the major insurance carriers.